The Kia EV9 kicked down the door for three-row electric SUVs with style and swagger. It arrived as a heavy hitter that combined futuristic looks with genuine family utility. But the honeymoon phase is fading fast. Rising political pressures regarding tax credits and stiff competition from its corporate cousin are threatening to stall its momentum. This electric giant now faces a critical test to see if it can hold its ground.
New Political Headwinds Threaten Affordability
The automotive landscape shifted dramatically in recent months. The EV9 launched with high hopes, but external factors are creating turbulence. The potential cancellation of federal EV tax credits by the Trump Administration poses a massive financial hurdle.
“Price is the biggest barrier to EV adoption, and losing incentives changes the math for families,” notes a leading industry analyst.
Shoppers who previously relied on leasing loopholes to secure a $7,500 credit may soon face sticker shock. This policy shift forces Kia to rely entirely on the merit of the vehicle rather than subsidized pricing.
The timing could not be worse for the Korean automaker. Dealerships are already grappling with high interest rates that deter buyers from financing expensive vehicles.
To make matters more complicated, the EV9 faces “friendly fire” from the Hyundai Ioniq 9. This sibling shares the same E-GMP architecture but arrives with a sleeker, aerodynamic profile. The Ioniq 9 offers slightly better range and a smoother ride, directly targeting the same demographic.
Kia must now prove that its boxy, rugged aesthetic is worth the premium over its arguably more refined relative.
Kia EV9 electric SUV driving on modern city highway
Bold Design Meets Practical Family Comfort
You cannot mistake the EV9 for anything else on the road. It rejects the jelly-bean shape of most electric cars in favor of a unapologetic, angular stance. The design screams “truck” while keeping the aerodynamics functional enough for highway driving.
Flush door handles and distinct lighting signatures give it a cyberpunk edge. The “Star Map” daytime running lights bleed into the front fascia, creating a digital tiger face that turns heads.
Inside, the cabin balances tech with usability.
- Dual Displays: Two 12.3-inch screens merge under a single pane of glass.
- Haptic Controls: Hidden buttons on the dash light up only when the car is on.
- Sustainable Materials: The interior uses recycled materials that feel premium, not cheap.
- Lounge Seating: Optional second-row captain’s chairs can swivel or recline for rest stops.
Space is where the EV9 truly shines. It rivals the gas-powered Telluride in passenger volume. Six adults can fit comfortably, a feat few EVs can claim.
The flat floor architecture allows for a floating center console. This creates open space for handbags or backpacks between the front seats. It is a thoughtful touch that parents will appreciate during school runs.
However, the “frunk” (front trunk) remains a disappointment. It is barely large enough for a charging cable bag. Buyers expecting the cavernous storage of a Rivian R1S will feel let down by this missed opportunity.
Heavy Weight Dampens the Driving Thrill
Speed is cheap in the electric era, and Kia offers plenty of it.
The GT-Line model sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. That is sports car territory for a vehicle that weighs nearly 6,000 pounds. The instant torque pushes you back in your seat with addictive force.
Yet, physics always wins in the corners. The suspension struggles to mask the immense mass of the battery pack and chassis.
The steering feels numb and heavy, requiring significant effort to maneuver through tight city streets or parking garages.
On the highway, the ride is stable and composed. The self-leveling rear suspension handles full loads of passengers and luggage without sagging. But when the road gets twisty, the EV9 leans noticeably.
The upcoming EV9 GT promises to fix some of these dynamic flaws. It will pack 501 horsepower and upgraded suspension components. Until then, the current lineup remains a cruiser rather than a carver.
Here is how the EV9 stacks up against its main rivals:
| Feature | Kia EV9 GT-Line | Rivian R1S Dual | Hyundai Ioniq 9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-60 MPH | 5.0 Seconds | 4.5 Seconds | 5.2 Seconds |
| Est. Range | 270 Miles | 270 Miles | 300+ Miles |
| Starting Price | ~$74,000 | ~$76,000 | ~$72,000 (Est) |
| Suspension | Firm/Truck-like | Air Suspension | Soft/Comfort |
Charging Shift Brings Tesla Network Access
Range anxiety is becoming a thing of the past for Kia owners. The 2026 model year brings a massive upgrade to the charging experience.
Kia is switching from the CCS port to the North American Charging Standard (NACS). This grants EV9 drivers native access to the vast Tesla Supercharger network.
This move effectively doubles the available fast chargers for owners overnight.
The 800-volt architecture remains a standout feature. It allows the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes at capable stations. This speed makes cross-country road trips viable for families who don’t want to wait hours at a plug.
The vehicle also functions as a massive power bank. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system allows you to plug in laptops, camping gear, or even a coffee maker directly into the car.
Kia even sells a home backup system. In the event of a blackout, the EV9 can power your essential home appliances for days. It transforms the car from a liability into an asset during emergencies.
Despite these tech wins, efficiency remains average. The boxy shape creates drag, which hurts range at highway speeds. The Ioniq 9, with its curves, squeezes more miles out of a similar battery pack.
The EV9 is a bold statement that proved legacy automakers can build compelling electric trucks. It looks fantastic, fits the whole family, and charges incredibly fast. However, the landscape has become hostile. Between the loss of tax incentives and the arrival of the smoother Hyundai Ioniq 9, Kia sits in a precarious position. It is a great vehicle that is suddenly fighting a war on two fronts: price and preference. For buyers who love the boxy look, it is still a winner. For everyone else, the competition just got a lot more tempting.
What do you think about the EV9’s chances against the new Hyundai Ioniq 9? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. If you are following the EV market shift, share this story on X or Instagram using #KiaEV9vsWorld.
