Kia has revealed its latest all-electric offering, the EV9 SUV, ahead of an Australian launch before the end of 2023.
The concept first debuted in late 2021 and while most of the design has remained the same on the outside Kia has completely refreshed the interior of its newest EV.
The front has a digital pattern grille, vertical headlights as well as ‘Star Map’ LED daytime running lights that create an “illumination experience”.
EV9
Concept EV9
EV9
Concept EV9
There is a heavy focus on a “Tiger Face” design language that Kia says will continue to feature across its future EV range.
Kia explains its digital Tiger Face features two clusters of small cube lights adjacent to each headlight.
The brand is specifically aiming to achieve exceptional aerodynamics throughout the SUVs design.
Dynamic triangular fenders, geometric wheel arches and flush door handles all contribute to the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. The rear of the EV9 retains a similar design that is consistent with the front of the SUV.
EV9
Concept EV9
Slim tail lights which haven’t varied much from the concept, which outline the ‘clear lines’ of the tailgate.
Although Kia are yet to disclose the dimensions of the production EV9, the concept measured 2055mm wide, 1790mm tall, and 4930mm long with a 3100mm wheelbase.
Kia has confirmed the production vehicle will be built on its Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which already underpins the smaller EV6 as well as Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 EV models.
The production model features three rows of seating, and offers two layout options which include six- or seven-seat variations.
First- and second-row seats have the ability to relax and rest while charging. The second row also has the ability to swivel 180 degrees to interact with the third row.
In the third row, passengers can take advantage of cup holders and charging points for mobile devices.
Kia has combined two 12.3-inch displays to create a floating panoramic dashboard that extends beyond the steering wheel to the vehicles centre.
A small 5.0-inch segment screen is used to operate the climate controls, and separates the two larger screens. There is very little emphasis on physical buttons throughout the digital dash and instrument cluster.
The production vehicle offers heated and ventilated seats and keyless start.
Kia has confirmed a global premiere event of the EV9 later this month will detail all the specifications for the upcoming flagship.
Kia Australia confirmed to CarExpert earlier this year that 400 EV9s are already allocated to Australia for 2023, and will arrive in the latter stages of this year.
What do you think of the all-new Kia EV9?
Keyword: Kia's new flagship EV looks just like the concept