With its massive size and muscular body panelling, Kia EV9 has a dominating street presence
Kia had showcased the EV9 concept at 2023 Auto Expo, whereas the production version had debuted on March 15. Based on the E-GMP platform that also underpins EV6, Kia EV9 will be the company’s new flagship SUV. It will pack in a comprehensive range of features and rival upcoming electric SUVs from Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
EV9 is part of Kia’s ‘Plan S’, wherein a target has been set to introduce 13 born-electric cars over the next four years. EV9 will be one of the biggest Kia models, with dimensions similar to that of US-spec Telluride SUV. It will also be the most expensive Kia car sold globally. Ahead of its launch, Kia EV9 has been spotted undisguised inside a parking lot.
Kia EV9 features new gen styling – Likely to be seen in all Kia electric cars in the future
Much of the features seen with the concept version have been retained in the production model. However, there are some changes such as smoothed edges and creases and 21-inch wheels replacing the 23-inch units seen with the concept model. Apart from these, there are no other major changes between the concept and the production version.
EV9 will have compelling colour choices in both glossy and matte finish. Options include Snow White Pearl (SWP), Panthera Metal (P2M), Aurora Black Pearl (ABP), Flare Red (C7R), Pebble Gray (DFG), Ivory Silver (ISG), Ocean Blue (OBG) and Iceberg Green (IEG). Matte colour options include Ocean Blue (Matte), Ivory Silver (Matte), Iceberg Green (Matte) and Panthera Metal (Matte).
EV9 utilizes a futuristic design philosophy with angled panels all across. It seems familiar to the panelling used on tanks and stealth aircrafts. Other notable aspects include the star constellation-inspired LED lights at front and rear, flat closed-off grille and Kia’s signature tiger nose effect on the skid plate. Viewed from the side, EV9 could be mistaken for an armoured car. Some key highlights include quirky alloy wheels, flared wheel arches, thick body cladding, chunky door panels, blacked-out pillars, smart door handles and tinted windows.
Inside, Kia EV9 has a clutter-free dashboard layout and cockpit area. Much of the controls are accessible via the massive integrated digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Interiors are designed for roominess and optimal user comfort. Both 6-seat and 7-seat versions are expected to be available.
EV9 performance, range – Best in class?
Kia has not revealed any significant details about EV9. However, it is known that EV9 will have a range of 543 km. Based on its size and max range, battery capacity could be around 100kWh. It is expected that EV9 will have fast charging, allowing users to load up around 100 km in approximately 6 minutes. Based on the E-GMP platform, EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 have similar capabilities. Kia EV9 is expected to get option of both rear-wheel and 4-wheel drive.
EV9 is unlikely to make it to India anytime soon. However, Kia has plans to launch multiple new mass-market EVs, specially designed for India. These will go up against upcoming born electric SUVs from Mahindra and Tata Motors.
Source: Electric - rushlane.com
