Kia EV9: The electric SUV that beat the Germans at their own game

Kia has done it again. The South Korean automaker, which has been making waves in the electric vehicle market with its acclaimed EV6, has just scored another major coup with its larger sibling, the Kia EV9.

The three-row electric SUV, which debuted in Europe earlier this year, has been named the winner in the "Luxury" category of the German Car of the Year 2024 (GCOTY) Awards. The prestigious accolade recognizes vehicles with a starting price exceeding $82,000.

The Kia EV9 beat eight other contenders in its category, including some of the most established and revered names in the luxury segment, such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. The vehicle gained favor from a jury of 27 trade journalists, who praised its spacious and versatile interior, striking design, and ultra-fast charging technology.

The Kia EV9 is now the second model available as a dedicated battery-electric vehicle from Kia, following in the footsteps of the multi-award-winning EV6, which was named European Car of the Year 2022. The EV9 is also Kia's largest model offered in Europe to date, measuring over 16 feet long and offering seating for up to seven passengers.

The Kia EV9 electric SUV is based on the same Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) as the Kia EV6, which enables it to support 800-volt ultra-fast charging technology. This gives it one of the best charging performances in its class: under ideal conditions, the 99.8 kWh battery can gain up to 149 miles of driving range in as little as 15 minutes of charging.

The EV9 offers two powertrain options: a rear-wheel-drive version powered by a 201-horsepower motor, delivering an impressive all-electric range of up to 336 miles based on WLTP standards, or an all-wheel-drive variant powered by twin 189-horsepower electric motors, presenting an all-electric range of 309 miles (WLTP).

The AWD version is also available as the sporty GT-line model, which can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.3 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph. The Kia EV9 GT-line also features electrically adjustable "relax" seats in the front row as standard, which can recline to a near-flat position for maximum comfort during breaks.

A new standard for luxury and innovation

"As Kia's new flagship, the EV9 plays a pivotal role in transforming our brand into a leading EV provider. With its extraordinarily variable and spacious interior, striking design, and ultra-fast charging technology, it sets new standards in the SUV segment," said Won-Jeong Jeong, President of Kia Europe.

"We are very proud that the EV9 was named 'German Luxury Car of the Year' even before it was launched, as it is a strong signal that the Kia brand and its electrification strategy are recognized and awarded by German industry experts."

The EV9's interior is designed to offer high comfort and convenience for all occupants. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward by up to 7 inches, allowing passengers easy access to the third row or more legroom. The third-row seats can also fold flat into the floor when not in use, creating a spacious cargo area.

The EV9 electric SUV also boasts a range of advanced features and technologies that enhance safety, connectivity, and entertainment. These include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a head-up display with augmented reality navigation, a wireless smartphone charger, a Harman Kardon premium sound system with 14 speakers, and a smart air purification system that monitors air quality inside the cabin.

On the safety front, the EV9 offers Kia's Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to automatically adjust speed and steering based on traffic conditions and road markings. It also features Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), which displays live video feeds of the rear and side views on the instrument cluster when changing lanes; Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which can detect vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and animals ahead and apply emergency braking if needed; and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), which allows drivers to park or exit parking spaces remotely using a button on the smart key fob.

A challenge to the established players

The EV9's success in the GCOTY Awards is a testament to Kia's innovation and quality and a challenge to the established players in the luxury segment, especially those from Germany.

Kia has been steadily gaining ground in Europe with its expanding portfolio of electrified vehicles, which now account for more than a quarter of its sales in the region. The EV6, which launched in Europe earlier this year, has already received more than 50,000 pre-orders, exceeding Kia's annual sales target.

The EV9, expected to arrive in European showrooms later this year, is likely to boost Kia's appeal and reputation among discerning customers looking for a premium and eco-friendly SUV.

The Kia EV9 is also set to launch in other markets, including the US, where it will compete with the likes of the Tesla Model X, the Audi e-tron, and the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.

The EV9 is not only a milestone for Kia but also a sign of the changing landscape of the automotive industry, where new entrants and challengers are disrupting the status quo and offering exciting alternatives to consumers.

The Kia EV9 is now one of the five finalists for the overall GCOTY Award, which will be announced in October. Whether it wins or not, the EV9 has already made a lasting impression and proven that Kia is a force to be reckoned with in the electric vehicle market.