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Kia is set to introduce the EV9, its first electric three-row SUV for the Indian market, on October 3. As excitement builds, it has been confirmed that the EV9 will debut in India as a fully-loaded GT-Line AWD model, offering a premium experience right from the start.
GT-Line AWD: The Pinnacle of Kia EV9
The GT-Line AWD variant represents the top tier of the EV9 lineup, packed with almost every feature Kia has to offer for this model. On the exterior, the GT-Line stands out with distinctive bumpers, 21-inch GT-Line wheels, and exclusive GT-Line badging at the rear, enhancing its sporty and luxurious appeal.
For the Indian market, the GT-Line AWD is expected to be available in a six-seat configuration, designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience. This variant boasts an array of premium features, including all-electric seats, a lounge function for the second row, multi-zone climate control, ventilated seats for the second row, a 360-degree camera, level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), auto parking, connected car technology, a power boot, and a full LED lighting package. In its home market, the interior is available in sophisticated color schemes such as black over white, navy blue with black, and brown with black, although it’s yet to be seen which options will be available in India.
Powertrain and Performance
On the global stage, the EV9 GT-Line AWD is powered by a 99.9kWh battery pack paired with dual motors that deliver an impressive 379bhp and 700Nm of torque. This powertrain allows the EV9 to achieve a range of 445km on a single charge, a 0-100kmph sprint in just 5.3 seconds, and a top speed of 200kmph—remarkable figures for an SUV weighing over 2000kg. Additionally, when using a 350kWh fast charger, the EV9’s battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. Kia is also expected to include a home wallbox charger as part of the package for the Indian market.
Pricing and Positioning
The Kia EV9 is anticipated to be priced between Rs 90 lakh and Rs 1.2 crore, making it the most expensive Kia model to be launched in India. Part of this high price point is due to the fact that the EV9 will be imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), while the rest is justified by the extensive features and technology packed into this fully-loaded variant.
Launching the EV9 in its top-spec form also sets the stage for future electric offerings from Kia in India, such as the upcoming electric version of the Carens, expected in the first half of 2025. By starting with the best that the EV9 has to offer, Kia aims to establish high expectations and a strong foothold in the Indian electric vehicle market.
