Kia EV9 2026 Australia Test Drive Review
The Kia EV9 2026 Australia range is not a subtle vehicle. It is large, angular and unapologetically futuristic. Stretching close to five metres in length and offering three rows of seating as standard, it already commands attention. But once you examine the performance figures — especially in GT form — it becomes clear this is more than just a practical electric family SUV.
Four variants now headline the Australian line-up:
- EV9 Air (RWD) – $97,000
- EV9 Earth (AWD) – $106,500
- EV9 GT-Line (AWD) – $121,000
- EV9 GT (AWD) – $129,250
All prices are before on-road costs.
Every EV9 rides on Kia’s dedicated 800-volt E-GMP electric platform, enabling ultra-rapid charging, flat-floor packaging and strong real-world efficiency.
EV9 Air – Entry-Level Without Feeling Basic
The EV9 Air may sit at the bottom of the pricing ladder, but it hardly feels stripped back. A single rear-mounted electric motor produces 160kW and 350Nm, fed by a 76.1kWh battery.
- 0–100km/h: approx. 8.2 seconds
- WLTP range: up to 443km
- DC charging: 10–80% in around 20–25 minutes (350kW capable)
Behind the wheel, the Air feels calm and composed. Instant torque delivery makes low-speed driving effortless, and despite its size, manoeuvrability is surprisingly manageable. The steering is light, visibility is strong and the ride quality is tuned firmly toward comfort.
Cabin space is one of the EV9’s defining strengths. The flat floor allows easy movement between rows, and seven seats are standard. Up front, twin 12.3-inch digital displays dominate the dash, complemented by a separate climate control interface. Wireless smartphone connectivity, adaptive cruise control and a full safety suite come standard.
For families stepping into electric SUV ownership, the Air provides a practical and well-equipped starting point.
EV9 Earth – Long-Range All-Wheel Drive
The EV9 Earth builds on that foundation with dual-motor all-wheel drive and a larger 99.8kWh battery. Outputs rise to 283kW and 600Nm.
- 0–100km/h: approx. 6.0 seconds
- WLTP range: up to 521km
Acceleration is noticeably stronger. Overtaking feels effortless, and the added traction gives extra confidence in wet or loose conditions. The Earth feels more planted at highway speeds, making it an ideal long-distance tourer.
The extended range is a standout. Over 500 kilometres of WLTP-rated driving means fewer charging stops and greater flexibility for regional travel. Thanks to the 800-volt system, charging remains quick when required.
On test drive, the Earth struck a balance between comfort and authority. The ride remains supple, cabin insulation is impressive and wind noise is minimal. For many buyers, this variant represents the sweet spot in the line-up.
EV9 GT-Line – Premium with an Edge
Step into the GT-Line and the EV9’s personality sharpens. While it retains the 99.8kWh battery and 283kW output, torque increases to 700Nm, trimming the 0–100km/h sprint to approximately 5.3 seconds.
- WLTP range: approx. 505km
- Wheels: 21-inch alloys
Visually, the GT-Line gains sportier styling and a more assertive stance. Inside, upgrades include premium upholstery, a head-up display and a Meridian premium sound system.
On the road, throttle response feels crisper and steering weight increases slightly. It still prioritises comfort, but there is a subtle athleticism now present in the way it responds to driver inputs.
The GT-Line proves that practicality and driving enjoyment do not have to be mutually exclusive. It remains a full-size, seven-seat SUV with generous luggage space, yet it offers enough performance to satisfy enthusiastic drivers.
Kia EV9 GT – Performance Statement
At the top of the range sits the EV9 GT, and this is where the story becomes genuinely exciting.
Dual electric motors produce a combined 374kW and 740Nm, launching the seven-seat SUV from 0–100km/h in approximately 4.5–4.6 seconds.
- Battery: 99.8kWh
- WLTP range: approx. 510km
- Drive: Performance-tuned AWD
Press the GT Mode button on the steering wheel and the transformation is immediate. The electronically controlled suspension firms noticeably. Steering sharpens. Throttle response becomes aggressive.
The acceleration is startling for a vehicle of this size. It pins occupants back into their seats with authority more commonly associated with performance sedans. Yet the EV9 GT maintains stability thanks to larger brakes and an electronic limited-slip differential.
Remarkably, it still carries seven adults in comfort.
This is the EV9 at its most dramatic — a genuine performance SUV that refuses to sacrifice practicality.
Charging, Technology and Ownership
A defining advantage across the range is Kia’s 800-volt architecture. Under ideal conditions, DC fast charging from 10 to 80 per cent takes roughly 24 minutes on a compatible 350kW charger.
AC charging is supported up to 11kW three-phase.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality allows the EV9 to power appliances or tools directly from the vehicle. Whether it is camping equipment or emergency backup, the capability adds a layer of versatility.
Safety remains comprehensive. Autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist and lane-keeping systems are included throughout the range.
Final Verdict
The Kia EV9 2026 Australia line-up successfully combines scale, sophistication and serious performance.
The Air provides a smooth and accessible entry into large EV ownership. The Earth delivers long-distance confidence and extended range. The GT-Line balances premium features with dynamic improvements. And the GT delivers electrifying acceleration that challenges expectations of what a seven-seat SUV can do.
Few competitors currently offer this combination of practicality, ultra-fast charging capability and sub-five-second performance.
The EV9 does not simply compete in the large electric SUV segment — it sets a new benchmark.
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