Family life doesn’t have to mean giving up on driving excitement. Kia’s upcoming EV9 GT proves that point perfectly, combining three-row practicality with genuine sports car performance. This isn’t just another electric SUV – it’s a statement that families can have their cake and eat it too.
What Makes the EV9 GT Special
The new flagship variant takes everything great about the regular EV9 and turns up the intensity. Where the current top-spec GT-Line produces a respectable 283kW, the GT variant cranks that up to an impressive 374kW of total system power. That’s a significant 91kW boost that translates into real-world performance you’ll actually feel.
But power is just part of the story. Kia has completely rethought the driving experience, adding electronically controlled suspension that adapts to different driving conditions. This is actually a first for any three-row SUV from the Korean manufacturer, showing just how serious they are about this performance flagship.
Performance That Surprises
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Power Output | 374kW (160kW front + 270kW rear) |
| Acceleration | 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds |
| Drive System | All-wheel drive with dual motors |
| Charging Speed | 10-80% in under 25 minutes |
| Wheel Size | 21-inch alloys with performance tires |
| Braking System | Upgraded brakes with green calipers |
Those acceleration figures put the EV9 GT in genuine sports car territory. At 4.3 seconds to 100km/h, it’s actually quicker than many dedicated performance vehicles, yet it still seats six people and handles the school run with ease.
Technology That Enhances the Experience
Virtual Gear Shift System
One interesting addition is Kia’s Virtual Gear Shift technology. While some purists might question simulating gears in an electric vehicle, it actually serves a purpose beyond nostalgia. The system provides more predictable power delivery and can make the driving experience feel more familiar for those transitioning from traditional vehicles.
The electronic Active Sound Design works alongside this system, creating artificial gear shift sounds as you accelerate. You can toggle these features on or off depending on your preference – perfect for when you want quiet electric driving or a more engaging soundtrack.
Adaptive Suspension and Handling
The electronically controlled suspension isn’t just about comfort. Different drive modes adjust damping, steering weight, and brake feel to match your driving style. There’s even a bright green GT button on the steering wheel that instantly switches to the stiffest damper setting for maximum performance.
Kia has also fitted an electronic limited-slip differential to improve cornering stability. Combined with the upgraded brakes and high-performance Continental tires, the EV9 GT should handle surprisingly well for such a large vehicle.
Design Changes That Matter
Exterior Updates
The visual changes are subtle but purposeful. A new grille pattern and redesigned front bumper help distinguish the GT from regular models, while the upgraded brake calipers peek through the 21-inch wheels with their distinctive green finish.
Interior Refinements
Inside, you’ll find more supportive sport seats with Alcantara inserts and bright green accent stitching. The steering wheel is unique to the GT variant, and green accents throughout the cabin remind you this isn’t an ordinary family hauler.
One notable change for Australian buyers is the seating configuration. The EV9 GT comes standard with six seats, featuring captain’s chairs in the second row rather than the seven-seat bench setup found in other Australian-market variants.
Australian Launch Details
Timing and Availability
Kia Australia has confirmed the EV9 GT will arrive in the second half of 2025. Like other performance variants from the brand, it’s expected to receive local suspension tuning to suit Australian road conditions.
Expected Pricing
While official pricing hasn’t been announced, industry estimates suggest the EV9 GT could command over $130,000 before on-road costs. That’s a significant premium over the current $121,000 GT-Line, but the performance and technology upgrades justify the increase for those wanting the ultimate electric family vehicle.
Competition and Context
The EV9 GT arrives at an interesting time, with sister company Hyundai launching the Ioniq 9 around the same period. However, the most powerful Ioniq 9 variant currently produces less power and is significantly slower, making the Kia the clear performance choice.
For families wanting electric practicality without sacrificing driving excitement, the EV9 GT represents something genuinely new in the Australian market. It’s proof that the future of family transport doesn’t have to be boring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast can the EV9 GT charge?
A: Using DC fast charging, it can go from 10-80% charge in under 25 minutes thanks to its 800-volt architecture.
Q: Does it have the same seating as other EV9 models?
A: No, the GT comes with six seats including captain’s chairs in the second row, rather than the seven-seat bench configuration.
Q: When will it be available in Australia?
A: Kia has confirmed a launch in the second half of 2025, with local suspension tuning expected.
