2024 KIA EV9 Makes Public Debut at The Exchange TRX – Flagship GT-Line Starts at RM368k
The KIA EV9 made its debut in Kuala Lumpur through Dinamikjaya Motors, the official distributor for the Korean brand. Following this public introduction, the flagship SUV will be on display at the Central Exchange area on the Ground Floor of The Exchange TRX from June 12th to June 16th, open from 10am to 10pm daily.
As previously discussed during the model’s media preview a month ago, the EV9 is offered in two versions: a 7-seater priced at RM369,668 and a more luxurious 6-seater at RM374,668.
Imported from Gwangmyeong, South Korea, the EV9 stands out with its angular ‘Opposites United’ design, contrasting sharply with the curvier EV6. It boasts 21-inch wheels and a futuristic front featuring LED lights.
In terms of design philosophy, it aligns with its main competitor in the large luxury EV segment, the BMW iX. Kia aims to attract buyers away from rivals like the Audi Q8 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQE, leveraging the EV9’s unique selling point as a three-row vehicle.
Both variants, in GT-Line trim, share the same powertrain specifications: a 99.8kWh battery powering dual electric motors producing a combined 380hp and 700Nm of torque. This enables the 2.6-tonne EV9 to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds, with an estimated range of 647km (NEDC) or approximately 505km (WLTP) on a single charge. Its top speed is claimed to reach 200km/h.
Built on the EV-specific E-GMP platform, the EV9’s architecture supports high-voltage operation, facilitating efficient charging with up to 350kW DC input for a 10-80% charge in 24 minutes. AC charging up to 11kW takes around 10.5 hours for a full charge. The EV9 also offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability at 3.58kWh for powering small devices.
Inside, the EV9 features dual 12.3-inch screens for the driver and infotainment, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, complemented by a 14-speaker Meridian audio system.
The front seats are ‘Premium Relaxion’ with heating, ventilation, electric adjustment, and massage functions. Second-row seats offer power adjustment and extendable ottomans. Additional features include 3-zone climate control, digital side mirrors, a sunroof, a powered tailgate, and advanced ADAS such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with AEB and steering assistance.
Safety features include a Surround View Monitor, Forward Collision Warning & Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, High Beam Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Following Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
Like the EV6, the EV9 comes with a 5-year (or 150,000km) vehicle warranty and an 8-year (or 160,000km) battery warranty.
