2024 Kia EV9 Review

The 2024 Kia EV9 is here, and it’s making waves as Kia’s most expensive and arguably most impressive vehicle to date. Starting at £65,000 for the base "Air" model and climbing to £78,000 for the top-of-the-line GT-Line S trim, the EV9 is a bold statement in the electric SUV market. I had the pleasure of reviewing the GT-Line S, and let me tell you — it’s an absolute stunner in every sense.

If you’re in the market for a luxury SUV that’s also a capable and practical electric vehicle, the 2024 Kia EV9 deserves your serious consideration.

Exterior Design

The EV9’s exterior is a head-turner, especially in the GT-Line S trim. The model I tested featured a gorgeous blue satin finish paired with 21-inch wheels (compared to the 19-inch wheels on the Air model). The GT-Line S also boasts black trim and black mirrors, in contrast to the chrome and body-coloured mirrors found on the lower trim levels. This SUV is big, chunky, and has a unique retro-meets-modern appeal, reminiscent of a Tonka toy — but in the best way possible.

Performance and Range

All versions of the Kia EV9 come equipped with a 100 kWh battery, but the configurations differ slightly. The GT-Line S offers all-wheel drive, delivering 385 horsepower and a claimed 315 miles of range. The entry-level Air, while rear-wheel drive, offers a slightly better range at 350 miles. On the road, the EV9 defies its size, feeling light and nimble despite its substantial weight. The 0-62 mph time of just over 5 seconds is nothing short of impressive for a vehicle of this stature.

Interior

The EV9 is available in both six and seven-seat configurations. The GT-Line S model I tested featured the six-seat option, which transforms the rear cabin into a veritable executive lounge. The rear seats are incredibly comfortable, with plenty of adjustments, heating, and cooling features. There's even a little table and USBC charging points built into the seat sides — a thoughtful touch for rear passengers.

Even with the third row of seats up, the EV9 offers a decent amount of boot space, complete with compartments for cables and other necessities. For those who love the outdoors or need to charge devices, the EV9 includes a three-prong socket, perfect for camping trips. The panoramic sunroof, available only in the GT-Line S, floods the cabin with light, making the spacious interior feel even more open.

Tech and Infotainment

The tech inside the Kia EV9 is as impressive as its exterior. The infotainment system is responsive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. While the screen design is a bit dark, it doesn’t distract while driving. The car is also packed with features, from heated and cooled seats to a massage function that activates automatically during long drives.

Driving Experience

Given the EV9’s size, you might expect it to feel like a tank on the road — but that’s far from the truth. The steering is light, and the car handles beautifully, even on longer journeys. Despite its large, slab-sided design, the ride quality is smooth, though the weight does impact efficiency slightly. I averaged around 2.7 miles per kWh, which isn’t bad considering the EV9’s size and power.

Final Thoughts

I’ve never been particularly drawn to SUVs, but the Kia EV9 2024 might just change that. It’s big, bold, and uncompromising, yet remains incredibly flexible and a joy to drive. It’s not just an SUV for the sake of it — it’s a vehicle that proudly embraces its identity and delivers on all fronts.

Yes, it’s the most expensive Kia ever, but when you compare it to competitors like the Range Rover or the BMW X, the EV9 offers a compelling package. Plus, with Kia’s seven-year warranty, the long-term value is hard to beat.

If you’re in the market for a luxury SUV that’s also a capable and practical electric vehicle, the Kia EV9 2024 deserves your serious consideration.

To find out the latest lease prices for a Kia EV9, Click here.