The Good
The 2025 KIA EV9 offers impressive advantages, blending a bold, futuristic design with practical three-row utility and a quiet, powerful electric drive. Buyers appreciate its competitive range, advanced tech, and spacious, comfortable interior. It delivers strong value in the large EV segment, appealing emotionally with its innovative aesthetics and practically with lower running costs and a robust warranty.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2025 KIA EV9 include its premium price tag, especially for higher trims, which might deter some buyers. As a large EV, charging infrastructure availability can be a concern for long-distance travel. Some may find its overall weight noticeable in handling, and the infotainment system, while advanced, might have a slight learning curve initially.
2025 KIA EV9: Quick Overview
The 2025 KIA EV9 offers a compelling range of specifications tailored for diverse needs.
- Engine/Motor Options: Available with either a single electric motor powering the rear wheels (RWD) or a dual-motor setup providing all-wheel drive (AWD).
- Horsepower:
- RWD (Light Standard Range/Long Range): 201 horsepower.
- AWD (Wind, Land, GT-Line): 379 horsepower.
- Estimated EPA Range (using 2024 figures as proxy):
- RWD Long Range: Up to 304 miles.
- AWD: Up to 280 miles.
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration:
- RWD: Approximately 7.8 seconds.
- AWD: Approximately 4.5-5.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped with the dual-motor AWD system and a towing package.
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- Light (RWD): Entry-level, offers 19-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, a panoramic digital display integrating two 12.3-inch screens, SynTex seating, a power liftgate, and a comprehensive suite of Kia's Drive Wise safety features. Available with standard or long-range battery.
- Wind (RWD/AWD): Builds on Light with the long-range battery standard, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a heat pump, and available second-row captain's chairs for 6-passenger seating.
- Land (AWD): Adds more luxury and tech, including larger 20-inch wheels, a Meridian premium audio system, a digital rearview mirror, a head-up display, a surround-view monitor, more premium interior accents, and power-folding third-row seats.
- GT-Line (AWD): The top-tier sporty trim featuring exclusive 21-inch wheels, unique GT-Line exterior styling, an enhanced chassis tuning, a dual-pane sunroof, massaging front seats, and a more advanced version of Kia's Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2).
2025 KIA EV9 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2025 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | EV9 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Wagon Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | GWANGMYEONG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3628.74 kg |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | 501.4 cm |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | 309.88 cm |
| Standard Seating | 6 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $73,900 USD |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | $1,495 USD |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2025 KIA EV9 Have?
However, as with any new vehicle, especially one packed with advanced technology, initial software glitches or minor manufacturing adjustments are not uncommon in the first year or two of production. Owners of first-year models (2024) have reported occasional, minor infotainment system quirks or connectivity issues, which are often resolved with over-the-air software updates or dealership patches. These are generally not indicative of major mechanical reliability concerns but rather typical new-model teething issues.
Regarding recalls, new vehicles can experience them as production ramps up and more units hit the road. It is essential for prospective buyers to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any open recalls specific to the 2024 or 2025 EV9 model years prior to purchase or throughout ownership. Kia generally has a solid reputation for addressing issues promptly.
For long-term reliability, the EV9 shares its underlying E-GMP platform with other successful Kia and Hyundai EVs like the EV6 and Ioniq 5, which have generally shown good initial reliability. Owners can expect a strong powertrain warranty, typical of Kia, which helps mitigate concerns. While specific long-term battery degradation or motor longevity for the EV9 will only become apparent with time and mileage, the E-GMP platform has been designed for durability.
How long will the 2025 KIA EV9 last?
The primary long-term consideration for any EV is battery health. With proper charging habits — avoiding frequent 100% fast charges and keeping the battery between 20-80% for daily use — the EV9's battery pack should retain excellent capacity for many years and well over 100,000 miles. Kia provides a substantial battery warranty, often 10 years/100,000 miles, reflecting confidence in its longevity. Overall, with routine maintenance of wear items like tires, brakes, and cabin filters, the EV9 is expected to offer a long service life, potentially exceeding 150,000 to 200,000 miles for the vehicle structure and motors, with gradual, expected battery degradation over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
At the heart of the cabin is Kia's panoramic digital display, seamlessly combining two 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, complemented by a separate 5-inch display for climate control. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a sophisticated navigation system, and Kia Connect services, offering remote access and vehicle status updates. Higher trims elevate the experience with an available Meridian premium audio system, a digital key function allowing smartphone access, and over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities for continuous improvement.
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features:
Kia equips all EV9 models with a robust suite of Drive Wise driver-assistance technologies. Standard features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning detection.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA).
- Blind-Spot Collision-Warning (BCW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA).
- Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go.
- Highway Driving Assist (HDA), providing semi-autonomous driving on mapped highways.
- Parking Distance Warning (PDW-Forward/Reverse).
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) with automatic lane change functionality.
- Surround View Monitor (SVM) and Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) for enhanced visibility.
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA-Forward/Side/Reverse) for automated braking.
- Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2), allowing the vehicle to park itself remotely.
- A digital rearview mirror for an unobstructed view.
Crash-Test Ratings:
As of its initial launch, comprehensive crash-test ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) were not yet fully available for the 2024 or 2025 KIA EV9. However, Kia vehicles consistently perform well in safety evaluations, and the EV9's robust platform and extensive safety features are expected to yield strong results once tested.
What Colors Options are Available?
2025 KIA EV9 Prices and Market Value
As the EV9 is a very recent introduction (first launched in 2024), there isn't a robust "used market" to analyze current used prices or established depreciation trends based on extensive data. Most available used models would likely be very low-mileage 2024 units, priced close to new.
In general, electric vehicles have seen varied depreciation, sometimes steeper than comparable ICE vehicles, though this trend is evolving. Factors that will affect the EV9's resale value include battery health and range retention, overall vehicle condition, trim level (higher trims generally depreciate more in absolute dollars but may hold percentage better), mileage, and the evolution of EV technology. Future government incentives for new EVs could also impact used car values. Its strong warranty and desirability as a 3-row EV are positive factors for depreciation.
2025 KIA EV9 Cost of Ownership
Maintenance is often more economical than ICE vehicles, with fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and reduced brake wear thanks to regenerative braking. However, unexpected repairs involving EV-specific systems could be costly. Overall, the EV9 tends to be more economical in terms of daily running costs but can be costly for insurance and, if needed, specialized repairs. It represents a competitive ownership proposition when balancing energy savings against higher initial cost and insurance.
2025 KIA EV9 Fuel Efficiency
2025 KIA EV9 Safety Rating
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2025 KIA EV9 Warranty
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How Does the 2025 KIA EV9 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Wagon Sport Utility Vehicle?
Performance: The EV9's dual-motor AWD system provides a spirited 379 horsepower, allowing for 0-60 MPH sprints in approximately 5 seconds. While quick for its size, it isn't designed to outpace the brutally fast Tesla Model X Plaid or even the standard Model X, which offer more exhilarating acceleration at a significantly higher price. The Rivian R1S also delivers stronger performance figures, particularly the Quad-Motor variant.
Features: The EV9 excels in its feature-per-dollar ratio. It offers a sophisticated interior, extensive standard and optional tech (including advanced driver assistance, panoramic displays, and premium audio), and comfortable seating across three rows. It holds its own against luxury rivals like the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and the upcoming Volvo EX90, often providing comparable features for a more accessible price. Its distinctive boxy design also sets it apart from sleeker competitors.
Reliability: As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the EV9 is yet to be fully established. However, Kia's strong warranty and the proven E-GMP platform (shared with EV6 and Ioniq 5) suggest a promising outlook. The Tesla Model X has a mixed record regarding build quality and service experiences, while the Rivian R1S is also new to the market, making direct comparisons difficult. Mercedes and Volvo have established luxury reputations but with complex systems.
Price: Priced roughly between $55,000 and $75,000, the EV9 offers a compelling value proposition. It significantly undercuts the Tesla Model X (starting around $80,000-$100,000+), the Rivian R1S (starting around $75,000+), and especially the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (starting well over $100,000).
Alternatives:
- Rivian R1S: A strong alternative if you value more rugged capability, higher performance, and a slightly more premium feel, though its third row is smaller.
- Volvo EX90 (upcoming): For those prioritizing ultimate safety features, Scandinavian luxury, and a modern aesthetic, the EX90 will be a direct competitor, likely at a higher price point.
- Hyundai IONIQ 7 (upcoming): As a platform mate, the IONIQ 7 will offer a similar powertrain and tech, with likely different styling and potentially a slightly different market positioning.
- Tesla Model X: If budget is less of a concern and blistering acceleration along with a strong charging network are top priorities.
Final Verdict: Is the 2025 KIA EV9 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Wagon Sport Utility Vehicle?
It is certainly worth buying for the right demographic. Opting for a new EV9 allows access to the full manufacturer's warranty and any potential federal or local tax credits. For optimal value, the Wind AWD trim often hits a sweet spot, balancing enhanced features, improved range, and all-weather capability without reaching the top-tier GT-Line's price. Given its recent introduction, a robust used market isn't established, so buying new is currently the primary option. Prospective owners should ensure their lifestyle and travel habits align with EV charging realities.