₹1 Crore Kia! Is the EV9 India’s best luxury e-SUV?

The wait is finally over! Kia has brought its most audacious and luxurious vehicle ever, the all-electric EV9, to Indian shores. This is not just another electric SUV; it’s a bold statement, a futuristic 3-row behemoth that promises to redefine the luxury EV space.

With its head-turning design and ground-breaking features, the EV9 aims to challenge the established German giants head-on. But in a market obsessed with brand heritage, can a Kia truly command a price tag of over ₹1 Crore and win the trust of luxury car buyers?

Price, Variants & Launch Details

Kia is bringing the EV9 to India as a CBU (Completely Built Unit), which places it squarely in the premium luxury segment. The official launch is expected any day now, with bookings likely to open this festive season.

The EV9 will likely launch in its top-spec GT-Line trim, ensuring buyers get the absolute best of what Kia has to offer. This variant is for the discerning buyer who wants a fully-loaded vehicle with all the bells and whistles right from the start.

Battery, Range & Charging (The “Kitna Chalti Hai?”)

The most crucial question for any EV is about its range, and the EV9 delivers a powerful answer. It is built on a state-of-the-art 800V architecture, which is a game-changer for charging.

The EV9 comes with a massive 99.8 kWh battery pack, one of the largest available in India. This results in a phenomenal WLTP-certified range of over 500-550 km on a single charge.

The ‘Why’ is its 800V technology. Think of it like a fast-charger for your phone, but for your car. It allows the battery to be charged incredibly quickly, going from 10% to 80% in just about 24 minutes using a 350kW DC fast charger.

Design & Features (The Wow Factor)

The EV9 looks like a concept car that drove straight onto the road. Its “Opposites United” design philosophy makes it stand out in any crowd.

Exterior: The front is dominated by the ‘Digital Tiger Face’ with striking Z-shaped LED headlamps, giving it an imposing presence. The overall design is very boxy and futuristic, with clean lines and flush door handles.

Interior: The cabin experience is the true highlight. It’s a massive, lounge-like space with a flat floor. The dashboard features a stunning single panel with two 12.3-inch screens and a smaller 5-inch climate control screen in between.

Key Features List:

• Swivelling Second-Row Seats: The middle row seats can swivel 180 degrees to face the third row, creating a social, living-room-like space.
• Dual 12.3-inch Panoramic Displays: A seamless, high-resolution screen for the driver’s display and infotainment.
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Function: You can use the car’s battery to power external appliances like a coffee machine or even a small fridge, perfect for camping trips.
• Dual Sunroofs: A panoramic sunroof for the front and a separate one for the rear passengers.
• Relaxation Comfort Seats: The front seats recline with a leg rest, perfect for relaxing while the car is charging.
• Level 2 ADAS Suite: A full suite of advanced safety features for enhanced security on the road.

Direct Rival Comparison (The Head-to-Head)

The EV9 enters a fierce battle against the established German luxury elite.

The EV9’s biggest advantage is clear: it’s the only one in this group to offer a practical 3-row seating configuration, making it a true luxury family SUV. While the Germans offer immense brand prestige, the EV9 competes fiercely on technology, space, and a potentially more attractive price point.

Practicality & Safety

The EV9 is designed for the modern Indian family. With all three rows up, the boot space is a usable 333 litres. Fold the third row down, and you get a cavernous space for luggage.

On the safety front, the EV9 has already secured a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. It comes loaded with 9 airbags, a 360-degree camera, and a full Level 2 ADAS suite which includes features like Auto Emergency Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Expert Buyer Advice (Who Should & Shouldn’t Buy It?)

You SHOULD Buy This If…

• …you need a spacious 6 or 7-seater luxury electric SUV for your family.
• …you are a tech-savvy early adopter who values innovative features like V2L and swivelling seats over a traditional brand badge.
• …you want a vehicle that makes a bold, futuristic statement and stands out from the crowd.

You should AVOID This If…

• …the brand prestige of a Mercedes-Benz or BMW is a non-negotiable part of your luxury car purchase.
• …you primarily drive yourself and prioritize a sporty, dynamic driving experience over outright space (the BMW iX might be better).
• …you don’t need three rows of seating and can opt for a smaller luxury EV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

BUY: For its groundbreaking design, immense practicality with 3-row seating, and futuristic features, the Kia EV9 is a compelling package that genuinely challenges the German elite and redefines what a luxury EV can be.