Kia EV9: A “Telluride+” Three-Row EV SUV Worth Waiting For

Kia invited us to Detroit for a little one-on-one time with their latest EV, the three-row EV9. Billed as a Telluride+, the 2024 EV9 has similar dimensions and proportions but a longer wheelbase, improving interior space.

This Ocean Blue model is the performance GT-Line which signifies the direction the brand intends to go with this platform. When asked if the brand would consider an X-Pro or X-Line model like their popular Telluride SUV the response was more inquisitive over what I would prefer to see versus anything committal. I would expect to see a performance GT model at some point, following in the footsteps of the smaller EV6 which we have already tested.

The big news of the GT-Line is its bigger battery, dual-motor AWD, and quick acceleration. Kia targets 0-60 runs in 5 seconds flat, on par with Lexus's first-ever EV the RZ, an impressive feat for such a large and heavy EV. While 5 seconds is not necessarily fast by 2024 model year standards, it does make for a perfectly fast family hauler capable of moving 6 people in luxury.

The nose of this model also features the "Digital Tiger Face" lighting elements, a unique use of LED lighting that is only available on glossy paint versions of the EV9. Matte paint models will feature the LED lights shown on the "Land" trim.

This example is the mid-level Land trim which boasts some interesting styling and unique wheels.

EV9 models will be available in RWD or dual-motor AWD. Two battery sizes will be available: 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh. Kia targets a maximum range of over 300 miles with the bigger battery and RWD. 0-60 times range from 8.8 seconds to 5.0 seconds depending on options. Most will make the run in mid-7 seconds.

Inside Kia implements 10 sustainable materials for a more earth-conscience approach towards the construction of their vehicles.

The 2024 Kia EV9 should go on sale by the end of this year. Pricing is yet to be finalized, more should come to light before final on-sale dates.

2024 Kia EV9 Specs:

• Single or Dual Electric Motors

• Up to 379 Horsepower

• Up to 516 lb.-ft. of Torque

• 76.1 or 99.8 kWh Battery

• Available Torque-Vectoring All Wheel Drive

• Four Drive modes:

  • Eco

  • Normal

  • Sport

  • My Mode

• 0-60 mph in up to 5 Seconds (according to Kia)

• 800V Electrical Architecture for Ultra-fast DC Charging of up to 230kW

  • 10-80% in an est. 25 Minutes

• Standard 76.1-kWh Battery in 215hp Rear-drive models

• Up to 300 miles of Electric Range (in RWD 99.8 kWh configuration)

• Full Digital Instrumentation

• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats

• Available Second-row Captain's Chairs with Leg Extensions, Heat, and Ventilation

• Premium Interior with Leather Alternative Upholstery.

• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control

• Heated Steering Wheel

• 7.8 Inches of Ground Clearance

• 81.9 Cubic Feet of Max Cargo Volume

• Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® Compatibility

• Qi Wireless Phone Charging

• USB charging ports

• Power Liftgate

• Proximity Key with Push Button Start

• Digital Phone-As-A-Key Capability

• Targeted On-sale Date of Q4 2023

• Pricing to be announced later

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