Kia EV9: A Strong Contender for 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

The all-electric Kia EV9 has been named a finalist in the 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year competition by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury. The Kia EV9 three-row SUV was evaluated by 50 third-party jurors and named one of three finalists among nine semi-finalists. The 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year winner will be announced on January 4, 2024.

Overview of the EV9

The all-electric EV9 embodies the rugged yet sophisticated appearance befitting a flagship SUV. The boxy, triangular Opposites United design language of the EV9 emphasizes the tension of its short overhangs and long wheelbase, pushed to the corners over the modular E-GMP electric underpinnings. The EV9 is the second Kia model based on the E-GMP platform and the first to feature fourth-generation battery technology designed for improved energy density. The EV9 offers two powertrain options. Standard is a 76.1-kWh battery with a 160-kW (215-hp) motor that drives the rear wheels. An optional 99.8-kWh battery will be available in a single-motor configuration (201-hp), or a dual-motor, 283-kW (379-hp) all-wheel-drive configuration. The two battery sizes yield five variants: Light (short-range or long-range), Wind, Land, GT-Line. Set to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2023, the EV9 is the brand’s flagship. With a starting MSRP of $54,900 (excluding destination charges), the EV9 Light RWD will come standard with DC fast-charging capability, seating for up to seven passengers, 19-inch alloy wheels, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with heating and ventilation, and is rated at an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 230 miles.

Why the EV9 is a Finalist for 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™

The EV9 is a finalist for 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ because of its impressive features and capabilities. The EV9 is Kia‘s first all-electric vehicle, and it is a strong contender in the utility vehicle category. The EV9 is a spacious and comfortable vehicle perfect for families and individuals who want a reliable and efficient vehicle. The EV9 is also environmentally friendly, making it an excellent choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Comparison Table

VehicleMSRPBattery SizePowertrainSeating CapacityEPA-Estimated Range
Kia EV9$54,90076.1 kWh or 99.8 kWh160 kW (215 hp) or 283 kW (379 hp)Up to 7230 miles
Ford Mustang Mach-E$42,89568 kWh or 88 kWh190 kW (255 hp) or 248 kW (332 hp)Up to 5230 miles
Tesla Model Y$41,19060 kWh or 75 kWh198 kW (266 hp) or 258 kW (346 hp)Up to 7326 miles

Conclusion

The all-electric Kia EV9 is a finalist for 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, and it is easy to see why. The EV9 is a spacious, comfortable, and environmentally friendly vehicle that is perfect for families and individuals who want a reliable and efficient vehicle. With its impressive features and capabilities, the EV9 is a strong contender in the utility vehicle category. If you are looking for a new vehicle, the all-electric Kia EV9 is worth considering.