Video Summary
- The Kia EV9 is a game changer.- Pricing, utility, performance, and range have been covered.
- Repositioning an automaker’s image up market is rare, but Kia pulled it off with the Telluride, driven by wealthy folks.
- The EV9 is the all-electric sequel, looking like a pressed Nissan Armada, built on the EGMP architecture.
- There is significant new tech in this car.
- The EV9 effectively is an electrified Telluride, the two cars having the same size.
- With rear drive and the smaller battery pack, the base EV9 starts at $56,400, while the larger battery goes for $4,300 more.
- The GT-Line is more expensive.
- GT-Line models are strictly six-seaters with dual motor all-wheel drive power starting at $75,400.
- A fully loaded rig with an optional paint retails for $78,430.
- At launch, EV9 does not qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit.
- The main option is the $2000 second row relaxation package with powered chairs and leg rest.
- Kia’s interior is the best to date.
- Material is good looking and seems durable.
- The EV9 is a leather-free zone.
- The heated and vented seats have a mild massage action.
- Rear passengers can see through the mesh headrest for added visibility.
- The vehicle gets active grill shutters to improve aerodynamics.
- The drag coefficient is 0.28.
- Dual motor GT line is pretty quick, 0-60 happens at about 5 seconds.
- Range and efficiency are spelled out clearly.
- 800-volt EGMP architecture charges from 10 to 80 percent in 24 minutes with a 350-kilowatt DC fast charger.
- Charging speed using DCFC 50kW = 83 min/ 350kW = 24 min.
- Home Level 2 240V / 48A = 8 hours 45 min.
- Owners may get used to the ignition placement but the reviewer finds it awkward.
- The 12.3-inch display is crisp and clean, even in sunlight.
- No need for a hood.
- Base models are dubbed "Light". The smaller 76.1-kilo watt hour lithium ion battery is rated at 230 miles of range.
- All trims have a single speed transmission with motor refinements compared to EV6.
- EPA range estimates the EV9 at 270 miles/ 42kW-hrs per 100 miles.
- Fuel economy and greenhouse gas rating is 10.
- Smog rating is 10.
- Annual fuel cost is $950.
- 5 year fuel savings is $3,500.
- Acceleration from 50 to 70 is strong, no white knuckles when passing on two-lane roads.
- There is elevated ride height that’s not overly so.
- With three rows, there is 20 cubic feet of cargo space.
- The suspension is comfortable, but not sloppy; body roll nicely controlled.
- Front suspension is from the high performance EV6 GT.
- In an all-wheel drive trim, EV9 weighs an average of 5,700 pounds.
- Hard buttons are well placed.
- The best available sound system is just-so-so.
- A repair kit won’t help with sidewall damage in the woods.
- MSRP is un-Kia like.
- ADAS and technology improvements are impressive.
- It slings around town better than one would think.
- Luxury marks offer more opulence inside.
- It’s a great blend of comfort and sport.
- With digital key, the car senses as the user approaches.
- User can inject power back to their home to save around $1000-1500/year.
- Lots of acoustic glass, and it doesn’t use active noise cancelation.
