In November of 2021, Kia had the esteemed privilege of unveiling the Concept EV9 at the illustrious Los Angeles Auto Show. As the brand readies to launch the subsequent production model, car enthusiasts, and connoisseurs alike eagerly anticipate the impending release. It has been announced that fully revealing images of the EV9 will be made public in mid-March, while technical specifications will be disclosed towards the end of the month. However, in an effort to satiate the emotional curiosity of the masses, the South Korean automaker has released a remarkably revealing 30-second clip showcasing the grandeur of the large electric SUV.
The road-going model of the EV9 has been the subject of much speculation and scrutiny, as numerous spy shots depicting prototypes have been leaked to the public eye. It has been observed that the production model will pay homage to the namesake concept in terms of styling, a fact reinforced by an official preview recently unveiled. The preview offers a glimpse of the boxy electric SUV similar to the Telluride, which seems plucked straight out of a sci-fi movie. The intricate headlights, which sport a matrix tech configuration, lend the EV9 a unique and avant-garde front fascia, while the rear tailgate appears to lack a wiper unless it is ingeniously concealed underneath the roof spoiler, reminiscent of the styling cues of the Range Rover.
Electric SUVs are typically recognised for their bulbous and aerodynamic design, a feature attributed to their ability to maximize fuel efficiency. However, the EV9 sets itself apart from the norm with its distinctively upright stance, which seemingly prioritises the maximisation of interior space. One could say that the vehicle is akin to a Soul that indulges in daily trips to McDonald’s, as it is both spacious and formidable in its design. In a bid to further enhance fuel efficiency, the EV9 boasts flush door handles, which expertly optimize airflow and potentially unlock additional miles of range. Furthermore, the concept’s innovative side cameras have been replaced with more conventional mirrors. While the show car flaunted 22-inch wheels, industry insiders speculate that the production model will top out at a maximum of 21 inches, a minor yet noteworthy difference.
An alleged leak has surfaced that purportedly provides insight into the EV9’s range, although it is yet to be officially confirmed. The range, if the leak is indeed valid, is estimated to vary from a modest 220 to a slightly more impressive 290 miles, which is neither flawed nor particularly groundbreaking. However, that the figures may refer to the EPA-estimated range, which may differ from the WLTP numbers. Industry insiders have hinted at the possibility of available single- and dual-motor configurations, with the former boasting a base model of 200 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. The range-topper is rumoured to feature an impressive 400 horsepower and a whopping 480 pound-feet of torque, a statistic that is sure to thrill auto enthusiasts worldwide.
As per the aforementioned report, the upcoming 2024 Kia EV9 is expected to range in price from a reasonable $56,000 to a more extravagant $73,000 for the full-option model that comes equipped with two motor, all-wheel-drive configuration, 21-inch wheels, and an impressive 4,500-pound towing capacity. However, the fastest and most robust variant is speculated to possess the ability to reach 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds, a noteworthy feat for a large and heavy SUV with three-row seating.
The Kia EV9 is slated to be available for purchase globally in the latter half of this year, following its world premiere later this month.
Source and Images: Motor1