Kia America has unveiled the 2026 Kia EV9 GT, the brand’s most powerful three-row SUV to date, at the LA Auto Show. The EV9 GT is equipped with dual electric motors, delivering an estimated 501 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds.
Performance and Powertrain
The EV9 GT features a 160-kW motor in the front and a 270-kW motor in the rear, providing all-wheel drive (e-AWD) capabilities. This setup marks a significant increase from the EV9 GT-Line’s 379 horsepower. The SUV also includes an electronically controlled suspension (ECS), a first for Kia, which adjusts shock damping based on the selected drive mode. Drivers can choose from Normal, Eco, Sport, and My Drive modes, with a dedicated GT button on the steering wheel for maximum performance.
Kia EV9 GT Design and Features
Visually, the EV9 GT stands out with 21-inch alloy wheels, neon green brake calipers, and unique “ENERGETIC” lighting patterns. Inside, the SUV boasts Alacantara leather inserts, green accents, and a 12.3-inch multimedia screen with GT-specific graphics. The EV9 GT also features a Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system, simulating traditional gear shifts for a more engaging driving experience.
Charging and Safety
The EV9 GT retains the 800-volt fast-charging architecture found in other EV9 models, allowing for charging from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes using DC fast chargers. The SUV also includes advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as parking collision avoidance, frontal collision avoidance, cyclist and pedestrian detection, and navigation-based Smart Cruise Control.
Kia EV9 GT Market Position and Availability
Steven Center, COO & EVP of Kia America, stated, “The EV9 has been a home run for Kia, and the EV9 GT includes all those wonderful elements while amping up the fun factor significantly.” The EV9 GT is expected to arrive in late 2025, with pricing to be announced closer to its release date.