Kia is raising the bar for family SUVs with the 2026 Kia EV9 GT, a high-performance, three-row electric SUV that blends practicality with exhilarating power.
Building on the success of the smaller EV6 GT, the EV9 GT boasts a commanding 501 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds, and a host of cutting-edge features designed to elevate both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
With the ability to recharge at Tesla Supercharger stations, this electrified powerhouse is set to make waves when it arrives in late 2025.
A Thrilling Evolution
The EV9 GT takes the family SUV concept and injects it with dynamic performance. Like its EV6 GT sibling and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N cousin, it introduces virtual gear shifts, a feature miming the tactile experience of a performance eight-speed automatic transmission.
Using steering wheel-mounted paddles, drivers can “shift” through gears or hit a simulated redline, where power is momentarily cut off. Kia’s active sound design system adds an auditory layer to the experience, replicating the roar of a combustion engine—or even the high-pitched whine of a fighter jet.
The EV9 GT is equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential to ensure optimal performance on any surface. This system actively redistributes power to the wheels that need it most, ensuring exceptional grip and stability in all driving conditions.
Powertrain: More Than Just Horsepower
Under the hood, the EV9 GT swaps out the standard model’s dual 190-hp permanent magnet motors for the high-output setup from the EV6 GT. A 214-hp motor powers the front axle, while a 362-hp motor drives the rear, combining for an estimated 501 horsepower.
Although this figure is slightly lower than the 576 horsepower in the EV6 GT, Kia’s ongoing calibration work could see the EV9 GT’s output increase closer to launch.
However, its balance of power and refinement truly sets the EV9 GT apart. Paired with an adaptive suspension system, this SUV offers customizable drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and GT. These settings adjust the suspension’s damping, steering responsiveness, and braking feel to cater to relaxed cruises and spirited drives.
Handling and Hardware Upgrades
Kia has equipped the EV9 GT with enhancements to match its robust powertrain. Larger front brakes, 21-inch performance wheels wrapped in high-grip Continental tires, and fine-tuned steering ensure this three-row SUV remains agile and responsive, whether navigating city streets or tackling twisty mountain roads.
A custom drive mode is also available for those who like to tailor their driving experience, letting you adjust parameters to your exact preferences. These upgrades make the EV9 GT a compelling choice for families who refuse to compromise on performance.
Charging and Range: Practicality Meets Innovation
The EV9 GT isn’t just fast on the road—it’s quick at the charger, too. Kia’s 800-volt battery architecture enables rapid recharging, with a 5% to 80% charge achievable in just 26 minutes at DC fast-charging stations.
While official battery specs are under wraps. The EV9 GT is expected to carry the same 99.8 kWh pack as other EV9 models.
However, the added performance features may slightly reduce its range, which is estimated to drop from the 270 miles offered by the GT-Line trim to around 250 miles. A first for Kia, the EV9 GT also features a Tesla-compatible NACS charging port. This feature eliminates the need for adapters at Tesla Supercharger stations.
Subtle Yet Striking Design
Visually, the 2026 EV9 GT distinguishes itself with purposeful design cues. Neon green brake calipers, exclusive LED lighting patterns, and a unique set of wheels give it a sporty edge over its GT-Line counterpart.
Inside, the cabin balances luxury and athleticism, featuring Alcantara-wrapped sports seats, neon green trim accents, and a distinctive steering wheel. Exclusive graphics on the digital instrument cluster and infotainment display further underscore the GT’s high-performance credentials.
Safety and convenience remain priorities, with the EV9 GT offering Kia’s latest advanced driver assistance systems, ensuring a secure and confident driving experience for families.
Kia’s First Factory Supercharged EV
In a major leap for the brand, the EV9 GT will be Kia’s first EV to feature a factory-installed NACS charging port, making it Tesla Supercharger-compatible right out of the gate. This marks a significant step toward improving accessibility to fast-charging infrastructure for Kia EV owners.
While charging speeds at Tesla stations have sometimes lagged behind those at non-Tesla DC fast chargers, the EV9 GT’s robust 800-volt system should ensure quick and efficient energy replenishment.
What Will It Cost?
Kia has yet to announce pricing for the EV9 GT, but it’s expected to surpass the current GT-Line trim, which starts at $75,395. Industry insiders anticipate the EV9 GT will start at around $80,000, making it Kia’s first entry into this price range. As the vehicle will be assembled in South Korea, it’s unlikely to qualify for federal EV tax incentives in the U.S.
Despite the premium price tag, the EV9 GT offers a unique proposition: a family-friendly SUV with the performance and features to compete with luxury competitors.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Kia EV9 GT is more than just an electric SUV—it’s a statement of intent from Kia, signaling the brand’s commitment to blending high performance with everyday practicality. With its advanced technology, powerful performance, and family-friendly design, the EV9 GT set to challenge perceptions of what a three-row SUV can be.
As we await its arrival in late 2025, one thing is clear: the EV9 GT promises to bring excitement, sophistication, and electrification to the family SUV segment in a way that only Kia can.
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