The 2027 Kia EV9 carries over largely unchanged from the previous model year, with minor trim updates including new black 19-inch wheels and gloss-black exterior trim on the Wind model, plus new Wolf Gray paint availability. The Land trim gains the discontinued Nightfall Edition's blacked-out interior and the torque-boost function that increases output from 443 to 516 pound-feet.
The EV9 remains one of the few mid-size electric SUVs with a third row, sharing this distinction with the Hyundai Ioniq 9, which arrived two years later. The lineup starts with the rear-wheel-drive Light trim, powered by a single rear motor making 215 horsepower. The Light Long Range version uses the same single-motor setup but produces 201 horsepower despite its larger battery. All-wheel-drive models use dual motors producing 379 combined horsepower, with an available Boost mode raising peak torque to 516 pound-feet.
EPA-estimated ranges span 230 to 305 miles depending on trim and configuration. The entry-level Light offers 230 miles from a 76.1-kWh battery, while the Light Long Range reaches 305 miles with a 99.8-kWh pack. Wind and Land all-wheel-drive models are rated for 283 miles, and the GT-Line tops out at 280 miles. During a 75-mph highway test, the GT-Line traveled 240 miles.
Every EV9 uses an 800-volt electrical architecture supporting 230-kW DC fast charging. This speed adds an estimated 100 miles in 13 minutes, with an average charge rate of 139 kilowatts between 10 and 90 percent state of charge. The onboard 11-kW charger is typical for the class.
EPA efficiency ratings range from 100 MPGe city and 78 MPGe highway for the rear-wheel-drive Long Range to 83 MPGe city and 72 MPGe highway for the GT-Line. During highway testing, the GT-Line achieved 76 MPGe. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 offers slightly better efficiency, improving by one or two MPGe in most measures.
The interior features dual 12.3-inch screens for gauge cluster and infotainment, with a dedicated HVAC display between them. Seating configurations include seven passengers with a bench seat or six with captain's chairs in the second row. The third row accommodates adults comfortably but requires legroom concessions from the second row. Cargo capacity reaches 20 cubic feet behind the third row, or 82 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
Base towing for the Light and Light Long Range stands at 1000 pounds, or 2000 with trailer brakes. Wind, Land, and GT-Line models increase capacity to 1653 and 3500 pounds respectively, with potential for 5000 pounds when equipped with a proper weight-distributing hitch.
Standard driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking. The hands-free driving mode with advanced adaptive cruise control is exclusive to the GT-Line. Kia offers one of the industry's best warranty plans, though it does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance, unlike Hyundai.