Kia has officially launched the EV9 GT, the high-performance variant of its flagship electric SUV, in South Korea. The new trim features a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain producing 509 horsepower (374 kW) and 740 Nm of torque, significantly enhancing its performance.
This powertrain enables the EV9 GT to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.5 seconds, making it the fastest and most powerful version of the EV9 to date. The model starts at 88.49 million won ($61,500) in its domestic market and is set to launch in North America, Europe, and other global markets later this year.
A More Powerful and Dynamic EV9
Kia first introduced the EV9, its first three-row electric SUV, in 2023, promising that a GT variant would follow with “enormous power” and several performance-oriented enhancements. Ahead of its global debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2023, Kia confirmed that the EV9 GT would receive a high-performance dual-motor AWD system, delivering an estimated 0 to 60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds—significantly quicker than the current EV9 GT-Line, which takes 5 seconds for the same sprint.
Now officially on sale in South Korea, the EV9 GT is powered by Kia’s fourth-generation 99.8 kWh battery, providing an estimated 408 km (253 miles) of driving range under Korean certification. The SUV is also Kia’s first model to feature an advanced electronic suspension, designed to provide greater stability and a luxurious driving experience. Additionally, an electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) dynamically adjusts power distribution to the wheels, improving control and traction in various driving conditions.
Sportier Design and Enhanced Features
The EV9 GT sets itself apart from the standard model with a sportier and more aggressive exterior design. The front bumper features active air flaps to optimize aerodynamics, while GT-specific 21-inch alloy wheels, neon brake calipers, and a blacked-out roof rack enhance the SUV’s bold appearance.
Inside, Kia has introduced several exclusive upgrades tailored to the high-performance experience. The Alcantara sports seats with suede seatbacks offer a premium yet sporty feel, while an upgraded infotainment system features a dedicated GT-themed digital cluster. The EV9 GT is also equipped with a premium Meridian sound system, digital side and center mirrors, and augmented reality navigation for an immersive driving experience.
For added comfort, Kia has introduced “relaxation seats” in the second row, designed to make long journeys more comfortable, while third-row power reclining seats provide additional flexibility. The dedicated e-ASD (electric-Active Sound Design) system, linked to the virtual gear shift system, emulates the sound and feel of gear shifting, a feature previously seen in Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N. The new three-spoke GT steering wheel includes a GT Mode button, allowing drivers to instantly access the SUV’s high-performance settings.
Pricing and Global Availability
Alongside the high-performance GT trim, Kia has introduced a lower-priced “Standard” EV9 trim in South Korea, starting at 64.12 million won ($44,500). With available government subsidies, the base model could be priced as low as 61 million won ($42,300).
However, the EV9 GT will not qualify for government subsidies in key markets like the U.S. due to its pricing and production location. In the U.S., the current EV9 GT-Line starts at $73,900, so the GT model is expected to be priced around $80,000 when it arrives later this year.
Following its South Korean launch, the EV9 GT will expand to international markets, including North America and Europe, where Kia expects strong demand for the high-performance electric SUV.