Kia EV9 is ‘Large SUV of Year’
The Kia EV9 won the ‘Irish Large SUV of the Year’ category at the 2025 Irish Car of the Year awards, which were announced at a ceremony at the Conrad Hotel, Dublin, presented in association with Continental Tyres (see separate article, page 28).
The EV9 is Kia’s flagship electric SUV, combining futuristic design, advanced technology, and sustainable innovation.
Unveiled in 2024, this three-row SUV is a testament to the firm’s commitment to leading the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. As a larger counterpart to the successful EV6, the EV9 sets new standards for family-friendly electric transportation.
The EV9 boasts a striking aesthetic that blends modern elegance with rugged SUV appeal. Its ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy is evident in the sharp lines, boxy silhouette, and innovative lighting features, including the Star Map LED light signature on the front fascia. This commanding presence is complemented by its 21-inch wheels and a flat roofline, ensuring a spacious interior without compromising aerodynamics.
Inside, the EV9 offers a luxurious and versatile cabin. Seating up to seven passengers, it features a flat floor enabled by its Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). The second-row seats can swivel 180 degrees for face-to-face conversations or easy child access, making it a unique family-friendly option. Kia also emphasise sustainability, using recycled materials like fishing nets and eco-friendly fabrics to minimize the EV9’s environmental footprint.
The EV9 is available in multiple configurations, including rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. Its dual-motor AWD variant delivers up to 380 horsepower, with a 0-100kmh time of just 5 seconds. Powered by a 99.8 kWh battery, the EV9 offers an impressive range of approximately 500km per charge, depending on the model. Kia’s 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast charging, adding up to 240km in just 15 minutes.
The EV9 is a tech powerhouse, featuring a 12.3-inch digital driver display and an equally large infotainment screen, seamlessly integrated for a minimalist dashboard. Kia introduce their Level 3 Highway Driving Pilot, offering hands-free driving on compatible roads, enhancing safety and convenience. Additionally, the EV9 supports over-the-air updates and features vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, allowing users to power external devices.