Kia has officially announced the pricing for its most expensive vehicle to date, the EV9 GT, which will soon be available in Australia. This electric SUV is set to become the flagship model of both the EV9 range and Kia’s overall line-up, with a starting price of $129,250 before on-road costs.
The introduction of the EV9 GT marks a significant milestone for the brand, reflecting its commitment to expanding its electric vehicle offerings. Notably, Kia has opted not to increase prices for any of the other 2026 EV9 grades, which begin at $97,000 for the single-motor rear-wheel drive Air. The prices rise to $106,500 for the dual-motor all-wheel drive Earth and $121,000 for the dual-motor AWD GT-Line.
In terms of performance, the EV9 GT stands out with its enhanced specifications. It delivers an impressive 374 kW of power and 740 Nm of torque, enabling it to reach a top speed of 220 km/h. The SUV can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, a remarkable achievement for a vehicle weighing over 2,600 kg.
The EV9 GT is equipped with a 99.8 kWh battery, similar to other long-range EV9 variants, which provides a driving range of 510 km. It supports a maximum charging rate of 350 kW through rapid DC fast chargers, ensuring minimal downtime during long journeys.
Enhanced Features and Local Adaptations
Among its many features, the EV9 GT includes Electronic Controlled Suspension, designed to improve ride quality. Kia has tailored the vehicle’s ride and handling to better suit Australia’s road conditions. While specific technical details are still forthcoming, some highlights of standard equipment include unique gloss black 21-inch alloy wheels, a digital LED grille showcasing Kia’s ‘Star Map’ lighting, and a bespoke interior with relaxation seats in the second row.
The EV9 GT’s price point positions it nearly $10,000 above its mechanically related counterpart, the Hyundai Ioniq 9, which retails for $119,750. Despite the higher cost, the EV9 GT offers greater power and torque, contributing to its appeal in the competitive electric SUV market.
As of now, there are limited options for seven-seat fully electric SUVs in Australia, with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Volvo EX90 (starting at $124,990) being among the few available. Several Chinese manufacturers are planning to enter this segment with large electric or plug-in hybrid SUVs, indicating potential growth in this market.
Kia has yet to announce whether there will be changes to the other EV9 grades as part of the model year update, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting further details. The EV9 GT’s launch signifies Kia’s ambition in the electric vehicle space and its determination to compete in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
