2023 Kia EV9 unveiled - First look at the 3-row electric SUV with swivelling seats
CY Foong · Mar 15, 2023 10:25 AM
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Meet the more grown-up sibling to the Kia EV6, the 2023 Kia EV9 which was just recently unveiled by Kia Corporation. The EV9 is Kia’s first 3-row electric SUV and represents a pivotal step forward in the Korean carmaker’s journey towards becoming a sustainable mobility solutions provider.
As opposed to the EV6’s sleek, futuristic spaceship of a design, the EV9 looks more blocky but it still very much adhered to Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. The result is a vehicle that ‘effortlessly combines an undoubted aura of rugged capability for all conditions with the serene calmness of a sophisticated EV’.
The front of the EV9 is accentuated by a ‘Digital Pattern Lightning Grille’ and vertical headlights for a futuristic look and feel. The signature ‘Digital Tiger Face’ features two clusters of small cube lamps within the bodywork adjacent to each headlight. The overall look is largely unchanged from the EV9 Concept that was revealed back in 2021.
Moving on to the side profile and here we see the polygonal SUV design merge with the aerodynamic efficiency of an EV. The highly pronounced geometric wheel arches unify well with the tapered back roofline.
The rear design of the EV9 is simple and clean like the rest of the electric SUV with slim taillights that mirror the design of the headlights.
Built on Kia’s E-GMP architecture, the EV9’s long wheelbase, low beltline, and completely flat EV architecture allows generous use of space for all occupants to relax with lounge-style comfort. The 3-row SUV is available in both 6- and 7-seater formats.
It’s these seats that would be playing quite the role in making the EV9 a comfortable experience. First and second-row occupants can simultaneously recline their seats to rest and relax as the electric SUV is charging.
Meanwhile, the second-row seats can also be swivelled 180 degrees at ease so occupants can interact with those seating in the third row. Yes, you can hold a mobile meeting in traffic in the EV9 if you believe that mantra of “work never leaves the office”.
Maybe you could just keep the stresses of work away from the EV9 as the cabin is mainly designed to be spacious, light, and airy while also being futuristic like many premium EVs.
The floating panoramic dashboard extends from the steering wheel to the vehicle’s centre. The main piece of attraction is two 12.3-inch touchscreens integrated with one 5-inch segment display that offers effortless control of the vehicle’s functions and ensures physical buttons are kept to a minimum.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
