Kia has officially set the stage for its next big leap in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the announcement of the 2026 Kia EV9 GT, a high-performance electric SUV slated to redefine power and performance in its class.
Revealed during the 2024 CEO Investor Day in Seoul, the EV9 GT is primed to be the performance flagship of Kia’s EV range.
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What to Expect from the Kia EV9 GT?
Kia’s upcoming EV9 GT, debuting in January 2025, promises an “enormous power output” from dual electric motors, setting a new benchmark for the automaker’s performance capabilities.
The large SUV will offer blistering acceleration, with a projected 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4 seconds, thanks to its robust motor setup and advanced all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
Enhancements in the EV9 GT extend beyond mere speed. The vehicle will also feature a “reinforced suspension and electronic braking system,” tailored to deliver stable and responsive driving performance at high speeds.
This new model is expected to push the boundaries of what Kia’s electric SUVs can achieve, both in terms of power and handling.
Comparison with Current Models
The current top performer in the EV9 lineup is the GT-Line, which boasts dual motors with a combined output of 379 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.
It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, outpacing competitors like the Kia Telluride and the Toyota Grand Highlander Max.
However, the GT-Line’s range currently peaks at 270 miles on a full charge, slightly less efficient compared to some of its gasoline counterparts.
Despite this, the EV9 GT-Line’s ability to charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW DC Fast Charger showcases the advantages of its 800-volt architecture, which is also used across other models in the Hyundai Group.
Kia’s Electric Future Plans
The introduction of the EV9 GT is part of Kia’s broader strategy to enhance its portfolio of all-electric GT models. With ongoing advancements in technology, including OTA updates and AI-assisted driving features, Kia is not only committed to improving performance but also to enhancing user comfort and vehicle efficiency across its entire electric vehicle lineup.
The upcoming unveiling of the EV9 GT at the 2024 LA Auto Show is eagerly anticipated, promising to offer a glimpse into the future of electric performance SUVs.
Anticipation and Speculations
With prototypes of the Kia EV9 GT already being tested at the Nürburgring and in the snowy landscapes of Sweden, anticipation is building.
Although camouflaged, these prototypes hint at a more aggressive styling than the current GT-Line trim, with new alloy wheels and possibly revamped aerodynamics.
