The EV9 features a dual-motor AWD electric powertrain with two permanent magnet synchronous motors, one driving the front axle and one the rear for seamless torque distribution and high traction in all conditions.

The system draws power from a large 99.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, enabling high-efficiency energy delivery and rapid charging. Combined maximum output stands at 379 hp and 700 Nm, with performance figures consisting of a 0-100 km/h acceleration time in 5.3 seconds.

Along with this setup, the powertrain supports multiple drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Smart) along with four levels of regenerative braking for customizable energy recovery and one-pedal driving feel. Meanwhile, heat pump technology aids efficient thermal management of the battery and cabin, helping maintain performance across varying climates.

The EV9 delivers an ARAI-certified electric range of 561 km on a single full charge of its 99.8 kWh battery pack. This translates to an efficiency figure of 5.62 km per kWh under standardised MIDC test conditions.

To support this capacity, the 800V electrical architecture supports ultra-fast DC charging up to 350 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. Note that for daily use, AC charging is supported for home or office use, though specific Level 2 times depend on the available wallbox power output.

The EV9's cabin is emphasised with a flat-floor design, enabled by the skateboard battery platform. It uses dual-tone leatherette upholstery with high-quality materials and 64-colour dual ambient mood lighting for a sophisticated atmosphere.

Accordingly, seating is configured for six, with second-row captain seats offering 8-way power adjustment, relaxation mode, and massage functions. The long wheelbase ensures generous legroom and headroom across rows, while independent 3-zone automatic climate control keeps all occupants comfortable. The driver benefits from a digital IRVM and ergonomic controls.

Infotainment includes a trinity panoramic display setup comprising a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 6-inch HVAC control screen, and 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation system, supported by over-the-air (OTA) software updates and Kia Digital Key 2.0.

Finally, on the practicality front, storage solutions feature an extendable central console tray with under-storage, while boot space measures 333 litres with seats in place (expandable significantly with rows folded). Additional practicality comes from a 52-litre frunk.

The EV9 adopts a futuristic design language rooted in the manufacturer’s "Opposites United" design philosophy, with excellent aerodynamic efficiency. From the front, it showcases a "digital tiger-face" with a parametric grille featuring dynamic star-map LED lighting and slim LED headlights with cube-style DRLs that create a striking welcome sequence.

Along the side, the proportions are imposed with a long 5,015 mm length, 1,980 mm width, and 3,100 mm wheelbase, complemented by flush door handles, roof rails, and 20-inch alloy wheels shod with 275/50 R20 tubeless radial tyres. Ground clearance stands at approximately 198 mm, aiding mild off-road capability and rough road conditions.

At the rear, full-width star-map LED taillights echo the front lighting theme, paired with a dedicated bumper for a cohesive, modern look. Meanwhile other features include active air flaps for efficiency and robust SUV stance that balances elegance with presence.

The EV9 comes equipped with 10 airbags, including a Level-2 ADAS suite with up to 27 autonomous features, along with standard systems such as ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), a 360-degree camera, among others. The durable body structure benefits from the E-GMP platform's inherent crashworthiness.

On crash safety testing, it has earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating with strong scores across categories (84% adult occupant, 88% child occupant, 76% vulnerable road users, and 83% safety assist). Note that no Bharat NCAP rating is available yet for the India-spec model.

In the Indian premium electric luxury SUV segment, the Kia EV9's closest rivals include the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, BMW iX, and Audi Q8 e-tron.

The EQS SUV often leads with a more streamlined, sedan-like silhouette and advanced MBUX hyperscreen interface, potentially offering a slight edge in rear-seat luxury and brand prestige, while the EV9 counters with its dedicated three-row 6-seater practicality, and stronger torque delivery.

The iX stands out for its sportier dynamics and innovative curved display tech, but the EV9 holds its own with superior claimed range (561 km vs typically lower figures) and family-oriented second-row captain seats with massage.

The Q8 e-tron provides refined ride quality and quattro AWD familiarity, yet the EV9 differentiates itself through faster DC charging (24 min 10-80%), higher power output in its dual-motor setup, and greater interior versatility for six adults with substantial cargo flexibility.