The Kia EV9 Coming With Seven Seats And More Space Than A Kia Carnival

Mar. 26, 2022 2:39 AM ET by Nikesh Kooverjee Rumor / 11 Comments

Thanks to the scalable E-GMP platform, cabin packaging will be generous.

The Kia EV6 is an exciting addition to the current electric car arena but if we're being honest with ourselves, it's very difficult to see it as a crossover and we're not too sure why the South Korean brand is insisting it is one. Regardless of the confusion, it's proving to be a hit with consumers as it offers a compelling EV powertrain at a reasonable price if you can navigate through the messy maze of cunning dealers who unnecessarily mark up stock.

For anyone insisting on having an SUV, Kia revealed the EV9 last year as the electrified version of the Telluride. We already know that we will be seeing a production version by 2023 but thanks to some new information, we have a bit of a clearer idea of what to expect.

Chatting to unnamed insiders, The Korean Car Blog reports that the interior of the upcoming EV9 will be fairly generous for its segment. Sitting on the E-GMP platform, the cabin space will rival that of the current Kia Carnival with a third row that's even more spacious than its MPV relative. While the prototype is a six-seater, a seven-seat configuration may be available in the final product.

There's not much information regarding the appearance of the cabin but if the concept is anything to go by we can expect it to be the next evolution in the South Korean brand's current interior design language. This may include the use of touch-sensitive controls, sustainable materials, and ergonomic seating.

Previously detailed information suggests that software is due to be an ace up the EV9's sleeve. Using the power of over-the-air software updates, owners will have the option of purchasing functions via the infotainment system through Kia's Feature on Demand service. To ensure a truly special cabin experience, there are also plans to introduce the Magic Roof and wide display screen as detailed by the concept.

Don't be fooled by its size. Thanks to the power of its electric platform, the production EV9 will be able to sprint from 0-60 mph in the five-second region and offer a full battery range of 335 miles. For the sake of ease and comfort, we can also expect Kia's semi-autonomous Highway Driving Pilot via the brand's AutoMode functionalities.