The Kia EV9 GT features dual electric motors, a 160-kW motor in the front and a 270-kW motor in the rear, delivering an estimated total output of 501 horsepower. Kia America revealed the 2026 Kia EV9 GT SUV, the brand's most powerful three-row SUV to date, at the LA Auto Show. The EV9 GT boasts an estimated 501 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, electronically controlled suspension, and unique design elements. The SUV is slated to arrive in late 2025. The Kia EV9 GT will be assembled in South Korea. Pricing will be announced closer to its release date in the latter half of 2025.
“The EV9 has been a home run for Kia and introduced the first mass-market electric three-row SUV,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America. “And EV9 GT includes all those wonderful elements while amping up the fun factor significantly. This new halo trim is set to spark the hearts of driving enthusiasts who still need the practicality of a six-passenger SUV. You can have your cake and eat it too!”
Features
The Kia EV9 GT features dual electric motors, a 160-kW motor in the front and a 270-kW motor in the rear, delivering an estimated total output of 501 horsepower. This marks a significant increase from the EV9 GT-Line’s 379 HP. While still undergoing internal testing, the targeted 0-60 mph acceleration time is 4.3 seconds, a notable improvement over the EV9 GT-Line’s 5.0 seconds.
The EV9 GT introduces an Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) to the Kia three-row SUV lineup. Drivers can select from Normal, Eco, Sport, and My Drive modes using the steering wheel button. The system optimises shock damping, steering, and brake feel for each mode. Engaging the GT button on the steering wheel activates GT mode, maximizing shock damping stiffness. Despite its performance enhancements, the EV9 GT retains the 7.8 inches of ground clearance and 5,000-lb towing capacity of other EV9 trims.
The EV9 GT comes standard with Virtual Gear Shift (VGS), simulating a traditional step-shift automatic transmission. VGS provides tactile and audible “shifts” during acceleration, even limiting acceleration at the rev limit. While VGS emulates an automatic experience, drivers can opt for manual shifting using paddles on the steering wheel.
Further enhancing performance is the standard electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD). This system enhances cornering stability by strategically distributing torque to the tires with the most grip, mitigating wheelspin and maintaining a controlled trajectory through turns.
Fast charging architecture
The EV9 GT maintains the 800-volt fast charging architecture found across the EV9 lineup. This system enables charging from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes using DC fast chargers. Starting in the first half of 2025, all EV9 models will come standard with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port, providing access to approximately 35,000 DC fast chargers across the U.S.
Design
Visually distinguishing the EV9 GT are 21-inch alloy wheels fitted with 285/45R-21 high-performance Continental tires. The SUV features neon green brake calipers, mirroring the Kia EV6 GT. Unique "ENERGETIC" lighting patterns and GT-specific designs on the Active Air Flaps further set the front end apart.
Inside, the EV9 GT incorporates bright green accents on the steering wheel, seats, and other areas. The SUV boasts deeply bolstered sport seats with Alcantara suede inserts and embossed GT logos. A GT-exclusive steering wheel and dashboard trim add to the sporty aesthetic. The interior is available in a GT-exclusive Dark Gray & Black simulated leather with neon accents.
A 12.3-inch display screen featuring GT-exclusive graphics welcomes the driver. A unique ambient lighting scheme enhances the passenger experience. Over-the-air-update technology, standard on all EV9s, allows for downloading new lighting patterns and content through the Kia Connect app.
ADAS and many more
The EV9 GT is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance features, including Parking Collision Avoidance Assist front, side and rear (PCA – f/s/r). This system alerts the driver to potential collisions with pedestrians or objects during parking maneuvers and can automatically engage emergency braking in certain situations.
Other standard ADAS technologies include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (N-SCC-C), Rear Cross-traffic Collision-avoidance Assist (RCCA), Parking Distance Warning (front, rear, and side), Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), Surround View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA 2).
