Getting to Know the 2025 Kia EV9: My Honest Take
So, I recently got my hands on the 2025 Kia EV9, and let me tell you, it's more than just another electric SUV. It’s a statement, a vibe, a whole experience. Seriously. This three-row crossover packs impressive range, some seriously cool tech, and surprisingly, a price tag that doesn’t break the bank. It’s a real contender in this crazy-competitive EV market. This isn’t some stiff, formal review; it’s my honest take on what makes this ride tick.
Power, Range, and All That Jazz
The EV9 comes in a few different flavors, each with its own unique personality. The base model, the EV9 Light, is rear-wheel drive (RWD) with a single motor. It’s got 215 horsepower and a respectable 230-mile range. Not bad for a starter. Then there's the Light Long Range version. Same RWD setup, but with a much bigger battery, giving you a whopping 304 miles on a single charge! You do sacrifice a little pep in your step, but the extra range is tempting.
If you crave all-wheel drive (AWD) and some extra oomph, the EV9 Wind and Land trims are your jam. Both pack a dual-motor setup, resulting in a powerful 379 horsepower. The top-of-the-line GT-Line? Think even more torque – we’re talking 0-60 mph in 5 seconds! And a top speed of 124 mph. But, you’ll pay a small price in reduced range (270 miles).
Let's Talk Trims: A Quick Comparison
To make things easier, here's a quick rundown of the trims. Prices are starting MSRP, and, you know, they can vary. Always double-check!
| Model | Price (Starting MSRP) | Key Features | Range (EPA est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EV9 Light | $56,395 | RWD, 76.1 kWh battery, 19" wheels, heated & ventilated front seats | 230 miles |
| EV9 Light Long Range | $61,395 | RWD, 99.8 kWh battery, captain's chairs, HomeLink mirror | 304 miles |
| EV9 Wind | $65,395 | AWD, 99.8 kWh battery, heated steering wheel, sunroof option | 280 miles |
| EV9 Land | $71,395 | AWD, 99.8 kWh battery, 20" wheels, premium Meridian sound system | 280 miles |
| EV9 GT-Line | $75,395 | AWD, 99.8 kWh battery, 21" wheels, V2L, heads-up display | 270 miles |
Space, Safety, and the Tech Factor
Honestly, the interior space is fantastic. Three rows of seating? Check. Room for six or seven passengers, depending on your configuration? Double-check! Cargo space is massive – we’re talking 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to a huge 81.7 cubic feet with all seats down. Perfect for road trips, family adventures, or that yearly Costco haul.
Safety's a priority, with Kia's Drive Wise suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. You’ll feel safe and secure. The tech is seriously impressive too. That big 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen? A dream. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Yep. Wireless smartphone charging? You bet. The higher trims add even more goodies, like a premium sound system and a heads-up display – pure luxury!
The Bottom Line: Should You Jump In?
The 2025 Kia EV9? It’s a strong contender. It strikes a great balance between performance, practicality, and price. Whether you need a family hauler or just a seriously impressive EV, it deserves a spot on your test drive list. You won't regret checking it out.
