Kia EV9
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a large family SUV that doesn’t compromise on the future? The Kia EV9 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This impressive seven-seater electric SUV combines spacious family practicality with cutting-edge technology and zero-emission driving. It’s the car for people who want the space of a traditional large SUV without the environmental impact of petrol or diesel.

From the moment you see it, the EV9 commands attention. Its bold, angular design and distinctive light signature give it a confident presence that rivals like the BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE simply can’t match in the electric space. But the real magic happens when you step inside. The interior feels like it’s from the future, with sustainable materials, multiple screen displays, and a lounge-like atmosphere. You get the sense that everything has been designed with both luxury and environmental consciousness in mind.

Driving the EV9 is a refined and surprisingly smooth experience. The electric motors deliver instant acceleration, making overtaking effortless while remaining whisper quiet. It handles well for such a large vehicle, giving you confidence on country roads while remaining comfortable enough for long family journeys. It’s a car that aims to prove electric doesn’t mean compromise. While it comes with a premium price tag, you’re paying for advanced technology, impressive range, and the peace of mind that comes with Kia’s excellent warranty coverage.

What's the Kia EV9 Like to Drive?

The Kia EV9 is designed to be smooth and sophisticated, not a performance SUV. The range of electric powertrains available are all tuned for refinement and efficiency. The entry-level RWD model with around 201 horsepower provides adequate power for most driving situations. It feels responsive around town and has enough grunt for confident motorway merging. If you want more performance, the AWD versions offer stronger acceleration and better traction, making overtaking feel completely effortless.

Where the EV9 really excels is in its driving refinement. The steering is light and accurate at low speeds, making parking surprisingly manageable for such a large electric SUV. At higher speeds, it weights up nicely, giving you a secure and planted feel. The suspension does an excellent job of soaking up road imperfections while keeping body roll well controlled. This makes it an easy and confidence-inspiring car to drive in all conditions, proving that electric family transport can be both practical and enjoyable.

Inside the Kia EV9: Comfort & Features

Open the doors and the difference between the EV9 and many rivals becomes immediately apparent. This is one of the most impressive interiors in its class. The dashboard is clean and futuristic, dominated by multiple high-resolution screens that control everything from climate to entertainment. The materials used feel premium and sustainable, with recycled plastics and vegan leather options. Everything from the seat adjustments to the ambient lighting operates with satisfying precision and quality.

The seating is exceptionally comfortable across all three rows, with the captain’s chairs in higher trims offering genuine luxury. There’s generous space for adults in the first and second rows, with the third row suitable for children or shorter adults. A key benefit is how quiet the cabin is. Kia has done an excellent job of sound insulation, which adds to that premium, relaxing atmosphere. Standard equipment is generous, with wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and advanced driver assistance systems helping to justify the premium price point.

The Kia EV9 is a compelling choice if you need serious space and want to embrace electric driving without compromise. It successfully delivers a premium, family-focused experience that makes every journey feel special. The interior is genuinely impressive, offering luxury materials and thoughtful design that puts many expensive European rivals to shame. On the road, it’s refined, quiet, and surprisingly agile for such a large vehicle. The trade-off is a substantial price tag and the need to adapt to electric charging infrastructure. It’s not the most exciting SUV to drive, but that’s not its purpose. Its purpose is to be a sophisticated, spacious, and forward-thinking family hauler that happens to be kind to the environment. It achieves this with impressive results. If your budget stretches to it and you’re ready for electric ownership, the EV9 represents the future of family transport done very well indeed.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Kia EV9?

As a premium electric vehicle, the Kia EV9 has higher initial costs but lower running expenses compared to traditional SUVs. The efficient electric motors are the highlight here, with home charging costs significantly lower than filling a petrol tank. You can expect to travel over 300 miles on a single charge in most conditions, which means fewer charging stops on longer journeys. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, though they will be higher than for smaller conventional vehicles.

The main consideration is the substantial purchase price, starting around £65,000. This puts it firmly in premium territory alongside German rivals. However, the total cost of ownership story improves when you factor in lower servicing costs, no road tax, and potential company car tax benefits. Government grants may also help reduce the initial outlay. When it comes to reliability, early EV9 models show promise, backed by Kia’s industry-leading seven-year warranty. Overall, while not the cheapest large SUV to buy, the EV9 offers compelling long-term car finance value for those ready to go electric.

Is the Kia EV9 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a large electric SUV, the Kia EV9 is impressively practical. The 333-litre boot with all seats up is adequate for everyday needs, but fold the third row flat and you get a massive 930 litres of cargo space. With all rear seats down, the 2,393-litre capacity can swallow large furniture or holiday luggage for the whole family. Inside the cabin, you’ll find numerous storage compartments, cup holders, and charging points throughout all three rows.

Where the EV9 really shines is in its flexibility. The second-row seats can slide and recline, making access to the third row surprisingly easy. If you regularly carry seven passengers, the EV9 offers genuine space for adults in most positions. For larger families or those who frequently transport groups, this makes the EV9 a compelling alternative to traditional MPVs. Its substantial size does mean it requires confidence in tight car parks, but the excellent all-around camera system and parking sensors make urban driving much more manageable than you might expect from such a large used Kia cars option.

The Kia EV9 stands out in the emerging large electric SUV market by offering genuine seven-seater practicality without the usual compromises. It packages impressive electric range, cutting-edge technology, and premium comfort into a family-friendly format that actually works for real-world use. While it may not have the badge prestige of some German alternatives, it excels in the areas that matter most for families: space, comfort, and reliability.

You choose the EV9 because you want a large SUV that doesn’t compromise on your environmental values. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and whisper-quiet operation make every journey more enjoyable. It’s perfectly suited for families ready to embrace electric driving while still needing the space and flexibility of a traditional large SUV. If you’re looking for a forward-thinking family vehicle that delivers on both practicality and sustainability, the EV9 deserves serious consideration, especially with competitive cars under £10,000 alternatives for those seeking more budget-friendly options.