- Kia unveiled the EV9 GT on the 2024 Los Angeles auto present
- The high-performance electrical SUV is the second GT mannequin from Kia
- Efficiency figures for the EV9 GT embrace 501 hp and 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.3 seconds
- Pricing shall be introduced nearer to the market launch within the second half of 2025
Kia’s fashionable EV9 electrical three-row SUV has gained a high-performance variant within the type of the EV9 GT, which made its debut on Thursday on the 2024 Los Angeles auto present, the place Kia additionally introduced an up to date EV6.
The EV9 GT is slated to reach at dealerships within the second half of subsequent yr, as a 2026 mannequin. It’s going to come commonplace with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain producing a peak 501 hp.
That is not as excessive because the 576 hp generated within the smaller EV6 GT, however it’ll nonetheless hustle the six-seat EV9 from 0-60 mph in a brisk 4.3 seconds, Kia estimates. Presently, the EV9 tops out at 379 hp.
2026 Kia EV9 GT
Kia hasn’t talked about what battery the EV9 GT packs, however the capability ought to at a minimal match the 99.8-kwh dimension of the most important battery presently supplied within the EV9. Because of 800-volt know-how, a 10-80% cost in lower than 25 minutes shall be doable, when utilizing an acceptable DC fast-charger. All EV9s within the U.S. will come commonplace with a NACS cost port beginning within the first half of subsequent yr, which is able to make utilizing one of many many Tesla DC fast-charging stations handy.
The efficiency upgrades do not cease on the powertrain within the EV9 GT. Different options embrace energetic dampers, bigger entrance brake rotors, an digital limited-slip differential, and a drive mode selector with Regular, Eco, Sport, and customized (My Drive) modes. The modes alter parts just like the dampers, steering, and brakes.
Kia has additionally fitted the EV9 GT with one thing referred to as the Digital Gear Shift (VGS). EVs sometimes haven’t got multi-gear transmissions, however the VGS system is designed to simulate the texture of gears being shifted. The motive force may even provoke one in every of these faux shifts utilizing paddles situated behind the steering wheel. The system is much like the N e-shift characteristic on sister model Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N.
2026 Kia EV9 GT
The EV9 GT may be distinguished by its distinctive lighting sample within the entrance grille space, in addition to its distinctive 21-inch wheels, and neon inexperienced brake calipers. The neon inexperienced, which is turning into a signature of Kia’s GT fashions, additionally options as an accent within the cabin, the place it’s present in numerous areas, together with on the steering wheel and seats. The EV9 GT’s entrance seats are trimmed with Alcantara inserts and embossed with the GT brand. The brand can also be repeated within the infotainment system menus.
Although EV gross sales aren’t rising as quick as they as soon as did, the EV9 continues to seek out loads of consumers. U.S. gross sales totaled 17,911 items by October, which is larger than the gross sales for the EV6. The recognition led to Kia beginning manufacturing of the EV9 within the U.S. in the summertime, although Kia confirmed the EV9 GT will solely be constructed at a plant in South Korea.
Pricing data shall be introduced nearer to subsequent yr’s market launch.
Kia won’t be completed with new variations of its EV9. The automaker used this month’s 2024 SEMA present in Las Vegas to indicate a rugged EV9 idea prepared to go off-road. Steven Middle, Kia America’s chief working officer, mentioned on the reveal that the idea presents a glimpse into what Kia’s future could maintain.
