The all-new 2024 Kia EV9 is now on display at the State Fair of Texas ahead of its arrival late this year. Its welcome appearance at the Texas Auto Show gave us a chance to get our first look at Kia's new flagship SUV during last week's media day.
The GT-Line AWD on display is the range-topping model in terms of power and capability. It delivers 379-horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque thanks to its dual-motor eAWD system. Towing capacity is also an impressive 5,000 pounds.
The EV9's bold looks definitely make a statement. Check out the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille and cube projection headlights. The GT-Line has a unique rear and front fascia, raised roof rails and rides on exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels.
Inside you'll find a roomy three-rows that seat up to seven. A digital cockpit features a combined 30-inches of HD displays. The GT-Line features exclusive GT-Line embossed trim and seating materials, along with power front seats with "Relaxation Mode" powered operated leg rests. The front seats in the GT-Line are heated and ventilated, too. The cabin also features a dual -level center console, suede premium headliner and 2nd-row captain's chairs.
The EV9 is capable of Ultra-Fast 800V DC Charging and can charge from 10%-80% in roughly 24 minutes at a public fast charger. Estimated GT-Line AWD range - 250 miles, but the lineup can deliver up to 300 miles on a charge depending on the trim.
In terms of safety, debuting on the EV9 for the Kia brand in North America: Advanced Highway Driving Assist (AHDA), and Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA-2). The EV9 will also feature some of the latest features in the Kia Drive Wise active driver assistance suite.
The EV9 is expected to arrive in the fourth quarter. Pricing on the base model, the Light RWD, starts from $54,900 (excluding destination). Kia is saving pricing info for the other trims - the Light Long Range, Wind, Land and GT-Line - until later.
This week, Kia announced it will start taking reservations for the EV9 October 16th at 10am PST with a $750 fully refundable payment. Here are the models that can be reserved:
In 2024, Kia says the EV9 is expected to be the brand's first EV to be assembled in North America. It will initially be built in South Korea, but next year the plan is to move assembly to Kia's plant in West Point, Georgia.
Photo Credit: CarPro.