Verified vehicle record
2026 Kia EV9
Car and Driver says aside from adopting a NACS charging port and introducing a blacked-out Nightfall Edition trim, the core EV9 models return with no significant changes for 2026; a new EV9 GT trim had been announced for 2026, but Kia has since postponed that model indefinitely. MSRP runs $56,545-$73,545. MotorTrend says the EV9 flexes fast-charging capability with this year's NACS switch, but driving range is good, not excellent, especially compared to the longest-range Rivian R1S and its new corporate rival, the Hyundai Ioniq 9; otherwise MotorTrend calls it quite excellent, an undeniably stylish and user-friendly SUV.
Current archiveChecked Aug. 28, 2026United States specification
PowertrainElectric motor(s), single or dual
Output201–379 hp
DrivetrainRWD / AWD
Seating6 or 7
Decision answers27Trim, ownership and verification
What changed for 2026
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) says aside from the adoption of the NACS charging port and the introduction of the blacked-out Nightfall Edition trim, the core EV9 models return with no significant changes for 2026. A new EV9 GT trim had been announced to launch for 2026, but Kia has since changed the plan and has postponed that model indefinitely.
Pricing for 2026
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) lists MSRP at $56,545-$73,545.
How it compares to its closest rivals
MotorTrend (opens in a new tab) says the EV9 flexes fast-charging capability with this year's switch to a Tesla NACS port, but driving range is good, not excellent, especially compared to the longest-range versions of the Rivian R1S and its new corporate rival, the Hyundai Ioniq 9; otherwise, MotorTrend calls the EV9 quite excellent, an undeniably stylish and mostly user-friendly SUV.
Questions buyers ask
What's new for the 2026 Kia EV9?
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) says a NACS charging port and a new Nightfall Edition trim; a planned GT trim has been postponed indefinitely.
How much does the 2026 Kia EV9 cost?
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) lists MSRP at $56,545 to $73,545.
Research paths
Move from the vehicle to the decision.
Compare like with like: the closest configuration, not an unrelated advertised maximum.
Record summary
What to know first
Light and Light Long Range are single-motor RWD with different battery sizes and a horsepower trade-off; Wind, Land and GT-Line share a 379-horsepower dual-motor AWD system.
Model-year note
Light Long Range actually has lower output (201 hp) than base Light (215 hp) despite the larger battery: verify before quoting either figure.
Trim map
How the lineup separates.
Trim descriptions identify the meaningful change from one trim to the next; individual options can still vary.
| Trim | Place in the lineup | Notable equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Entry trim | 76.1-kWh battery standard, 215 hp, RWD, 230 miles of EPA-estimated range, Entry-level standard equipment |
| Light Long Range | Trim 2 of 5 | 99.8-kWh battery standard, 201 hp, RWD, 304 miles of EPA-estimated range |
| Wind | Trim 3 of 5 | Dual-motor AWD standard, 379 hp, 280 miles of EPA-estimated range, Added comfort equipment over Light Long Range |
| Land | Trim 4 of 5 | Wind-level 379-hp dual-motor AWD carries over, Additional standard equipment over Wind |
| GT-Line | Top trim | Wind-level 379-hp dual-motor AWD carries over with torque raised to 516 lb-ft, 270 miles of EPA-estimated range, Sport-styled exterior and interior treatment |
01
02Entry trim
Light
- 76.1-kWh battery standard, 215 hp, RWD
- 230 miles of EPA-estimated range
- Entry-level standard equipment
Trim 2 of 5
Light Long Range
- 99.8-kWh battery standard, 201 hp, RWD
- 304 miles of EPA-estimated range
03
Trim 3 of 5
Wind
- Dual-motor AWD standard, 379 hp
- 280 miles of EPA-estimated range
- Added comfort equipment over Light Long Range
04
Trim 4 of 5
Land
- Wind-level 379-hp dual-motor AWD carries over
- Additional standard equipment over Wind
05
Top trim
GT-Line
- Wind-level 379-hp dual-motor AWD carries over with torque raised to 516 lb-ft
- 270 miles of EPA-estimated range
- Sport-styled exterior and interior treatment
Trim-by-trim specifications
The 2026 Kia EV9: 5 trims compared.
Kelley Blue Book specifications, one row per trim.
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drive | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | 0–60 mph | Top speed | Seats | Basic warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | AC Electric Motor | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | RWD | 215 | 258 | 7.7 s | 118 mph | 7 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Light Long Range | AC Electric Motor | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | RWD | 201 | 8.8 s | 115 mph | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | |
| Wind | Dual AC Electric Motors | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | AWD | 379 | 443 | 5.7 s | 124 mph | 7 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Land | Dual AC Electric Motors | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | AWD | 379 | 443 | 5.7 s | 124 mph | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| GT-Line | Dual AC Electric Motors | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | AWD | 379 | 516 | 5 s | 124 mph | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Trim | Curb weight | Length | Height | Wheelbase | Ground clearance | Turning circle | Front headroom | Front legroom | Towing | Tires |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | 5,106 lb | 197.2 in | 68.9 in | 122 in | 7 in | 20.3 ft | 41.2 in | 41.4 in | 2,000 lb | 19" |
| Light Long Range | 5,326 lb | 197.2 in | 68.9 in | 122 in | 7 in | 20.3 ft | 39.6 in | 41.4 in | 2,000 lb | 19" |
| Wind | 5,714 lb | 197.2 in | 69.1 in | 122 in | 7.8 in | 20.3 ft | 39.6 in | 41.4 in | 3,500 lb | 19" |
| Land | 5,776 lb | 197.2 in | 69.1 in | 122 in | 7.8 in | 20.3 ft | 39.6 in | 41.4 in | 5,000 lb | 19" |
| GT-Line | 5,811 lb | 197.4 in | 70.1 in | 122 in | 7.8 in | 20.3 ft | 39.6 in | 41.4 in | 5,000 lb | 19" |
Equipment by trim
Which 2026 Kia EV9 trim has what.
Std is standard, Opt is optional, a dash means Kelley Blue Book lists it as not available.
| Equipment | Light | Light Long Range | Wind | Land | GT-Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | |||||
| Anti-theft alarm | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Blind-spot alert | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child door locks | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child-seat anchors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Forward collision warning | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hill-descent control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hill-start assist | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rearview camera | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Surround-view camera | – | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Electronic stability control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Traction control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Technology | |||||
| Bluetooth audio streaming | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Bluetooth | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hands-free calling | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Built-in internet access | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Navigation system | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Premium audio system | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Satellite radio | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Steering-wheel audio controls | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Voice recognition | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Comfort | |||||
| Heated front seats | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Heated rear seats | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Heated steering wheel | – | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Heated mirrors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power front seats for driver and passenger | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power driver's seat | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Leather-wrapped steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Front and rear climate zones | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cup holders | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Third-row seat | Std | – | Std | Opt | – |
| Folding rear seat | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Exterior and convenience | |||||
| Alloy wheels | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Privacy glass | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rear spoiler | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power-folding mirrors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power liftgate or trunk | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| 12-volt power outlet | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power windows | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote engine start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Proximity keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Push-button start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cruise control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Integrated garage-door opener | – | Std | Std | – | – |
| Rear-window defroster | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
Complete certification table
5 configuration records.
| EPA ID / label | Engine / technology | Drive / transmission | Fuel | City | Hwy | Combined | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49669EV9 GT | Electric motor / not listedEV | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1) | Electricity | 83 | 72 | 78 | 260 mi |
| 49667EV9 Long Range AWD | Electric motor / not listedEV | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1) | Electricity | 94 | 75 | 84 | 283 mi |
| 49668EV9 Long Range AWD GT-Line | Electric motor / not listedEV | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1) | Electricity | 92 | 72 | 82 | 280 mi |
| 49666EV9 Long Range RWD | Electric motor / not listedEV | Rear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1) | Electricity | 100 | 78 | 89 | 305 mi |
| 49665EV9 Standard Range RWD | Electric motor / not listedEV | Rear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1) | Electricity | 101 | 76 | 88 | 230 mi |
Direct answers
27 questions tied to this model-year.
Each answer names its source.
Q01How many trims does the 2026 EV9 come in?
The 2026 Kia EV9 (three-row electric SUV) comes in 5 trims: Light, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, GT-Line.
Source: Kia
Q02What are the 2026 EV9 trims?
The 2026 Kia EV9 trims are Light, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, GT-Line, listed from the entry Light up to the top GT-Line.
Source: Kia
Q03What engine or powertrain does the 2026 EV9 use?
The 2026 Kia EV9 is built around Electric motor(s), single or dual, rated at 201–379 horsepower across its three-row electric SUV body style.
Source: Kia specifications
Q04Is AWD or 4WD available on the 2026 EV9?
The 2026 Kia EV9 is offered with RWD / AWD.
Source: Kia specifications
Q05What changed for the 2026 EV9?
Light Long Range actually has lower output (201 hp) than base Light (215 hp) despite the larger battery: verify before quoting either figure.
Source: Kia model-year information
Q06How many recall campaigns does NHTSA list for the 2026 Kia EV9?
NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation records 2 recall campaigns for the 2026 Kia EV9, covering electrical system, airbags.
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall campaigns
Q07How did the 2026 Kia EV9 do in NHTSA's side crash and rollover tests?
The 2026 Kia EV9 earned 5 stars in the side crash test (5 stars driver side, 5 stars passenger side) and 4 stars for rollover resistance, a 10.7% to 10.9% chance of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program
Q08What brake fluid, refrigerant and key-fob battery does the 2026 Kia EV9 use?
The 2026 Kia EV9 owner's manual names R-1234yf air-conditioning refrigerant. Source: 2026 Kia EV9 owner's manual.
Source: Manufacturer owner's manual
Q09How much cargo room is behind the 2026 Kia EV9's third row?
Cargo volume behind the third row is 20.2 cu ft. Documented for the 2026 Kia EV9 in Web search aggregate (Edmunds/KBB/manufacturer research pages), read 2026-09-10.
Source: Manufacturer specifications and press materials
Q10How much cargo room is behind the 2026 Kia EV9's second row?
Cargo volume behind the second row is 43.5 cu ft. Documented for the 2026 Kia EV9 in Web search aggregate (Edmunds/KBB/manufacturer research pages), read 2026-09-10.
Source: Manufacturer specifications and press materials
Q11What is the 2026 Kia EV9's maximum cargo volume?
Maximum cargo volume is 81.7 cu ft. Documented for the 2026 Kia EV9 in Web search aggregate (Edmunds/KBB/manufacturer research pages), read 2026-09-10.
Source: Manufacturer specifications and press materials
Q12Does the 2026 Kia EV9 come with roadside assistance?
Roadside assistance is included for 5 years / 60,000 miles. Documented for the 2026 Kia EV9 in Kia USA Roadside Assistance, read 2026-09-10.
Source: Manufacturer specifications and press materials
Q13What are the 2026 Kia EV9 trim levels?
Light RWD, Light Long Range RWD, Wind AWD, Land AWD, GT-Line AWD, and a new high-performance GT trim for 2026.
Source: Dealer research pages
Q14How much does the 2026 Kia EV9 cost?
Pricing starts at $54,900 and ranges up to $73,395, with some trims priced up to $2,000 lower than the prior year.
Source: Dealer research pages
Q15What is new on the 2026 Kia EV9?
A new Nightfall Edition based on the Land AWD trim, a new NACS charging port for Tesla Supercharger access, and a new terrain mode on all-wheel-drive trims.
Source: Dealer research pages
Q16How long does the 2026 Kia EV9 take to charge at home?
EPA lists 8.1 to 10.8 hours on a 240-volt Level 2 charger, depending on configuration: the EV9 Standard Range RWD is quickest and the EV9 GT takes longest.
Source: FuelEconomy.gov current vehicle table
Q17What colors does the 2026 Kia EV9 come in?
Kia lists 7 exterior colors for the 2026 Kia EV9: Panthera Metal, Glacial White Pearl, Ocean Blue, Road Rider Brown, Wolf Gray, Panthera Metal Matte, Ebony Black. It also lists 2 two-tone combinations: Wolf Gray with Ebony Black; Glacial White Pearl with Ebony Black. Which colors are offered depends on the trim.
Source: kia.com (opens in a new tab)
Q18What is the destination charge on the 2026 Kia EV9?
The destination charge on the 2026 Kia EV9 is $1,645. MotorTrend lists it, and MotorTrend's MSRP plus this charge matches Kelley Blue Book's national price, which includes destination (RWD Light Long Range: MotorTrend MSRP $57,900 plus this charge equals Kelley Blue Book's $59,545; the same on 4 trims).
Source: kia.com (opens in a new tab)
Q19What suspension does the 2026 Kia EV9 use?
MotorTrend describes the 2026 Kia EV9's suspension this way. Front: a MacPherson-type strut design. Rear: a multi-link design.
Source: kia.com (opens in a new tab)
Q20Did the 2026 Kia EV9 earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award?
IIHS lists the 2026 Kia EV9 as a Top Safety Pick+. IIHS states the rating applies to 2024-26 and 2025-26 models, based on a test of the 2024 Kia EV9 Land 4-door 4wd.
Source: iihs.org (opens in a new tab)
Q21How did the 2026 Kia EV9 do in IIHS crash tests?
IIHS rated the 2026 Kia EV9: Good in the small overlap front test, Good in the updated moderate overlap front test, Good in the updated side test. IIHS states the rating applies to 2024-26 and 2025-26 models, based on a test of the 2024 Kia EV9 Land 4-door 4wd. Grades run Good, Acceptable, Marginal, Poor.
Source: iihs.org (opens in a new tab)
Q22How quickly does the 2026 Kia EV9 accelerate from 0 to 60 mph?
The 2026 Kia EV9's 0-60 mph time is 5 seconds on the GT-Line up to 8.8 seconds on the Light Long Range, across 5 trims. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q23What is the 2026 Kia EV9's top speed?
The 2026 Kia EV9's top speed is 115 mph on the Light Long Range, 118 mph on the Light and 124 mph on the Wind, Land and GT-Line. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q24How big is the 2026 Kia EV9's battery?
The 2026 Kia EV9's battery capacity is 76.1 kWh on the Light and 99.8 kWh on the Light Long Range, Wind, Land and GT-Line. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q25What is the GVWR of the 2026 Kia EV9 Light 4dr SUV?
CarDealerships.com lists a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,415 pounds for the 2026 Kia EV9 Light 4dr SUV.
Source: CarDealerships.com model-year specification page
Q26What is the payload capacity of the 2026 Kia EV9 Light 4dr SUV?
CarDealerships.com lists a maximum payload of 1,309 pounds for the 2026 Kia EV9 Light 4dr SUV.
Source: CarDealerships.com model-year specification page
Q27How do the 2026 Kia EV9 trims differ from one another?
The Light Long Range has 201 hp against 215 and an integrated garage-door opener as standard equipment over the Light. The Wind has 379 hp against 201 and AWD instead of RWD and a heated steering wheel, a surround-view camera and a third-row seat as standard equipment over the Light Long Range. The Land has heated rear seats and a premium audio system as standard equipment over the Wind.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Live NHTSA evidence
Current federal safety records for 2026 Kia EV9.
Exact-vehicle evidence desk
Move from the guide to the VIN record.
Trim research establishes the marketed lineup. These primary-source paths resolve recall applicability, manufacturer-submitted identity fields and exact EPA configuration data.
01 · NHTSARatings, recalls, complaints and manufacturer communicationsExact model-year search → (opens in a new tab)02 · NHTSACheck unresolved safety recalls by VINOfficial remedy status → (opens in a new tab)03 · vPICDecode manufacturer-submitted vehicle attributesInternal VIN tool →04 · EPAResolve the exact fuel-economy configuration1984–current browser →
Other model years
Compare the Kia EV9 across model years.
Source trail
Evidence behind the record
01
Kia EV9 official model pageManufacturer lineup, equipment and specifications
↗ (opens in a new tab)02FuelEconomy.gov vehicle dataEPA-certified configuration and fuel-economy records
↗ (opens in a new tab)03NHTSA vehicle data and recallsVIN attributes, safety campaigns and ratings
↗ (opens in a new tab)Specifications and pricing can change after publication. Critical purchasing decisions should be confirmed against the exact vehicle window sticker or manufacturer build record.