Kia debuts the EV9 GT, its most powerful three-row SUV, featuring dual electric motors with an estimated 501 horsepower, advanced driver assistance systems, and exclusive design elements. Launch expected in late 2025.
22 Nov 2024 | 2464 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
Kia America introduced the high-performance 2026 Kia EV9 GT SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The EV9 GT, equipped with dual electric motors delivering an estimated 501 horsepower, is designed as Kia’s most powerful three-row SUV to date. With a targeted 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.3 seconds, the ...
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Kia America introduced the high-performance 2026 Kia EV9 GT SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The EV9 GT, equipped with dual electric motors delivering an estimated 501 horsepower, is designed as Kia’s most powerful three-row SUV to date. With a targeted 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.3 seconds, the EV9 GT emphasises performance while maintaining practicality.
The EV9 GT features an electronically controlled suspension, marking a first for a Kia SUV. The system adjusts shock damping based on the selected drive mode or via a dedicated GT button on the steering wheel. Larger front brakes enhance stopping power, while unique interior and exterior design elements distinguish the EV9 GT from other models in the lineup. The SUV also includes the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, providing access to an extensive charging network across the United States.
The EV9 GT is powered by dual electric motors mounted on the front and rear axles, enabling all-wheel drive (e-AWD). The front motor generates 160 kW, while the rear motor produces 270 kW, resulting in a combined estimated output of 501 horsepower. This represents a 122-horsepower increase over the EV9 GT-Line, which delivers 379 horsepower. Kia estimates a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, compared to the EV9 GT-Line’s 5.0 seconds. Braking performance is enhanced by upgraded brakes with exclusive GT-badged front calipers.
The SUV includes a driver-selectable electronically controlled suspension, accessible through the steering wheel-mounted drive mode button. Available modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, and My Drive, each optimising shock damping, steering, and braking characteristics. Activating the GT mode through a bright green button on the steering wheel stiffens the suspension further for enhanced driving performance. The EV9 GT maintains the standard model's ground clearance of 7.8 inches and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
The EV9 GT also comes standard with Virtual Gear Shift (VGS), simulating the gear-shifting experience of traditional automatic transmissions. Drivers can manually engage gears using steering wheel-mounted paddles, while in-cabin electric Active Sound Design (e-ASD) complements the simulated shifts with matching audio feedback. Additionally, an electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) helps improve cornering stability by directing torque to the tires with greater traction.
The SUV retains the standard 800-volt fast-charging architecture found in all EV9 models, allowing charging from 10 to 80 percent in less than 25 minutes using DC fast chargers. Starting in 2025, all EV9 models, including the GT, will feature the NACS charge port, enabling access to approximately 35,000 DC fast chargers across the United States.
The EV9 GT includes several unique design elements to distinguish it from other models. Externally, it features 21-inch alloy wheels fitted with high-performance tires and neon green calipers first introduced on the EV6 GT. The front end incorporates an exclusive “ENERGETIC” lighting pattern and GT-specific patterns on the active air flaps.
Inside, the EV9 GT is equipped with sport seats featuring Alcantara suede inserts and embossed GT logos, along with neon green accents on the seats and steering wheel. The dashboard and steering wheel include GT-specific trim, and the interior is available in a Dark Gray and Black simulated leather finish with neon highlights. A 12.3-inch display screen shows GT-exclusive graphics, while a unique ambient lighting scheme is available for all passengers. Over-the-air updates through the Kia Connect app allow future customisation of the lighting and other features.
The EV9 GT comes with a suite of standard advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Parking Collision Avoidance Assist provides warnings for potential collisions with pedestrians or objects during parking and can apply emergency braking if needed. Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2 includes car, cyclist, and pedestrian detection and features evasive steering assist.
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control adjusts speed for curves, while Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Parking Distance Warnings for forward, rear, and side views offer additional safety measures. Surround View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist are also included as standard features.