Kia EV9 GT-Line S, a modern day spaceship

The Kia EV9 isn’t just another SUV. It’s a lifestyle choice, navigating family practicality with a streak of futuristic originality

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Car Reviewed: Kia EV9 GT-Line S

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Targeting premium customers with prices starting at over £65k, this is the new flagship for the South Korean brand. However, their pricing is still highly competitive in the segment for large electric cars, and this vehicle is more fascinating and will entice new buyers.

Depending on whether you choose a six- or seven-seat model with AWD or RWD, the Kia EV9 is available in three grades: GT-Line S, GT-Line, and Air.

The EV9 is already winning many awards, it has created a real stir in the automotive world. Only a few recent cars have received this much hype from nearly two years before launch. A most recent award was The Women’s Car of the Year. I am not sure about the men’s, but I am sure they rate it very highly.

The spacious interior and advanced features include a superb high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system and an array of driver-assistance technologies. The sound system, sounds great and is by Meridian (same as Range Rover), with 14 speakers, crank it up and enjoy.

The six-seater GT-Line S is equipped with swivel seats in the back second row, so at charging stops, passengers can rotate, creating a more lounge-like feel and be more sociable. A long slide-out tray acts as a table. For reduced mobility passengers and more accessible access, these seats can be turned to face the doors.

Six USB-C charging points, two per row, keep teenagers’ devices charged while on the move.

First impressions, the car is significant, at 5 metres long and weighing over 2,5 tonnes. The looks are striking, and the feel-good vibe of the EV9 grabs you as you walk around the car and then view the bold interior, which, for the driver, is a special place indeed.

We headed to Scotland for our lengthy test drives of the EV9. We tested the GT-Line S models in the six and seven-seat grades.

The Matt Blue, as in the images, is a striking colour. Once inside, you sit slightly lower in the EV9 and once moving, the cameras ultimately offer assistance for any manoeuvre. Its sheer size seems to shrink away once you’re on the go, and its agility is surprising.

It’s a very light and easy SUV to drive and with the battery packs placed low within the body, it gives a low centre of gravity, enhancing the stability and performance. Top speed is 124mph and 0-62mph coming up in 5.3seconds; this thing goes.

Power comes from dual 141kW electric motors, one per axle, producing a combined 378bhp and a whopping 700nNm of torque.

Switchable terrain modes include mud, snow and sand, improving the traction in all terrains. There is also a My Drive setting to personalise the settings for your driving needs and style.

Charge it up and hit the road. With up to 320 miles under your foot and smooth, silent, but swift EV progress to be made, this car will suit the modern family in so many ways. The 99.8kWh battery is quick to charge, with 800-volt ultra-fast charging and peak charging output at 201kW; 155 miles of range can be added in just 15 minutes.

A lot of thought has gone into the inside, and much effort has been used to enhance sustainability. Eco-friendly and bio-based materials have been used. That’s not a leather interior; that’s Bio-Polyurethane derived from corn. Recycled plastics (PET) are also used from consumer waste, and the fabrics and carpets are from recycled fishing nets, among other things. The switches and trim also use a bio-paint. This car is clever in so many ways.

There will be many more EVs, small, medium and large and more coming from Kia. Start your space exploration; the EV9 is worth noting.