Kia is set to release its all-new electric seven-seater SUV, the Kia EV9, in Australia. The EV9 aims to elevate Kia’s image and provide Australian families with a compelling full-size alternative to popular SUVs like the Nissan Pathfinder and Hyundai Palisade. The EV9 stands out from its competitors with its boxy design and fully-electric powertrain, making it a unique offering in the large seven-seat SUV market.
At an expected price of around $100,000, the EV9 will be positioned above internal combustion rivals like the Hyundai Palisade, Mazda CX-9, and Nissan Pathfinder, and closer to prestige offerings from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Despite this higher price point, Kia believes the EV9 will attract more affluent buyers looking for an electric SUV solution.
Although Kia has not officially revealed pricing details for the Australian market, it is estimated that the entry-level EV9 Air rear-drive model will start in the low-$90,000s, while the top-spec EV9 GT-Line AWD model with a larger battery pack and more powerful dual motors will be priced over $120,000 plus on-road costs. There is also expected to be a middle variant called the EV9 Earth, which could be available in rear- or all-wheel drive.
The EV9 is expected to arrive in Australia in the last quarter of 2023. Kia Australia has already received over 5,000 expressions of interest in the EV9, indicating strong demand for the electric SUV in the market.
In terms of interior space, the Kia EV9 provides ample room for passengers with its over five-meter length and 3.1-meter wheelbase. The cabin features a mix of technology and high-quality materials, with a focus on sustainability. Kia has opted not to use leather in the EV9 and has increased the use of bio-materials and recycled plastics.
The front row of the EV9 boasts luxury and functionality with three digital screens dominating the dashboard. These screens include a driver’s instrument display, a bridging screen that displays air-con settings, and an infotainment touchscreen with the latest Kia software. The EV9 utilizes the E-GMP electric vehicle architecture, allowing for a flat floor and potential walkthrough access from the first to the second row. However, Kia has instead opted for a floating center console with cupholders, a phone charging mat, and an armrest.
For the second row, Australian models will only be available in a sliding three-seat bench configuration, ruling out the ‘relaxation’ seats found in international models. The third row of the EV9 is spacious and comfortable, with two cupholders, air vents, and USB-C ports for each passenger. The SUV’s large boot has a volume of 571 liters and can be expanded by folding the third and second rows flat.
The Kia EV9 comes with a comprehensive infotainment system that combines the driver’s instrument cluster with the main infotainment touchscreen. There is also a smaller screen that handles air-conditioning controls, supplemented by touch buttons for easy access to major infotainment features. The EV9 is expected to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Overall, the Kia EV9 offers a spacious and comfortable interior, advanced technology features, and a sustainable approach to materials. While pricing details and exact specifications for the Australian market have not been confirmed, the EV9 is poised to make a significant impact in the full-size electric SUV segment when it arrives in Australia in late 2023.
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