Korean automotive giant Kia has just dropped a bombshell that’s sending shockwaves through the electric vehicle market. The brand-new EV9 GT has officially launched with a staggering 502 horsepower and a price tag that’ll make your wallet weep – £82,185. But here’s the thing: this isn’t just another overpriced electric toy for the wealthy. This is potentially the most practical supercar alternative ever created.
The Power That Redefines Family Transportation
When someone mentions “family SUV,” your mind probably conjures images of sensible, subdued vehicles designed for school runs and weekend shopping trips. The Kia EV9 GT laughs in the face of such conventional thinking. With 502 brake horsepower and a colossal 546 pound-feet of torque flowing through its twin-motor all-wheel-drive system, this seven-seater can demolish the 0-62mph sprint in just 4.6 seconds.
Let that sink in for a moment. We’re talking about acceleration figures that would embarrass many dedicated sports cars, delivered by a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate an entire football team and their kit bags. The top speed is electronically limited to 136mph, though most owners will likely be more interested in the spine-tingling instant torque delivery that makes overtaking maneuvers feel effortless.
How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?
The performance credentials place the EV9 GT in rather exclusive company. It sits comfortably between Porsche’s Macan Electric 4 and 4S variants in terms of straight-line speed, yet offers something those German machines simply cannot match: genuine seven-seat practicality. While a Porsche Macan Electric might impress your neighbors, it won’t help when you need to transport three kids, their friends, and enough luggage for a week-long holiday.
Range and Real-World Usability
Performance enthusiasts often worry that choosing the most powerful variant means sacrificing practicality. The EV9 GT addresses these concerns with impressive real-world capabilities, though it does make some compromises in the name of pure power.
Battery Technology and Range Expectations
The GT variant shares its substantial 99.8kWh battery pack with other EV9 models, but the increased power output inevitably affects efficiency. Official WLTP testing suggests a range of 280 miles on a single charge – certainly respectable for such a powerful machine, though noticeably less than the standard EV9 Air’s impressive 349-mile capability.
However, Kia’s engineers haven’t forgotten about charging convenience. The 800-volt electrical architecture enables incredibly rapid charging speeds, allowing the battery to juice up from 10% to 80% capacity in just 24 minutes when connected to a 350kW rapid charger. This technology means that even longer journeys needn’t involve extended pit stops.
Charging Infrastructure Considerations
While 350kW chargers remain relatively uncommon across the UK, the charging network is expanding rapidly. The government’s commitment to improving electric vehicle infrastructure means that ultra-rapid charging points are becoming increasingly accessible, particularly along major motorway routes.
Design Elements That Scream Performance
Kia hasn’t simply bolted more powerful motors into a standard EV9 and called it a day. The GT variant receives a comprehensive visual overhaul that immediately distinguishes it from its more sedate siblings.
Exterior Styling Enhancements
The most immediately obvious change is the bespoke LED light signature adorning the front grille, creating a more aggressive and purposeful appearance. Massive 21-inch alloy wheels fill the wheel arches perfectly, while upgraded front brakes feature distinctive neon green calipers that hint at the performance potential lurking beneath the stylish exterior.
These aren’t merely cosmetic flourishes – the larger brake discs provide the stopping power necessary to safely handle the GT’s considerable performance, while the wheel and tire combination has been specifically chosen to maximize both grip and visual impact.
Interior Luxury and Technology
Step inside the EV9 GT, and you’re greeted by an interior that seamlessly blends luxury with sporting intent. The artificial leather and suede upholstery features distinctive neon green stitching that echoes the brake caliper color, creating a cohesive design theme throughout the cabin.
The steering wheel incorporates a special green GT button – a detail that might seem minor but adds genuine emotional connection between driver and machine. Premium relaxation seats can actually tilt back for power naps during fast-charging sessions, demonstrating Kia’s thoughtful approach to long-distance electric travel.
Technology Package Worth the Premium
The £82,185 asking price might seem steep, but Kia has loaded the GT with technology and luxury features that help justify the premium positioning.
Audio and Connectivity Excellence
A 14-speaker Meridian audio system transforms the cabin into a mobile concert hall, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity ensure seamless smartphone integration. The wireless phone charger eliminates cable clutter, maintaining the clean, modern aesthetic that defines the EV9’s interior design.
These technological touches might seem like luxury add-ons, but they’re becoming essential features for modern family transportation. The ability to keep devices charged and connected during longer journeys is particularly important for electric vehicle owners who rely on smartphone apps for route planning and charging point location.
Practical Considerations for Potential Buyers
While the EV9 GT’s performance figures are undeniably impressive, potential buyers should consider several practical factors before signing on the dotted line.
Running Costs and Incentives
Although the purchase price exceeds £80,000, electric vehicle ownership brings several financial advantages. Company car drivers benefit from minimal benefit-in-kind taxation, while private buyers avoid fuel duty and congestion charges in many urban areas. Insurance costs may be higher than conventional SUVs, but service requirements are typically much lower for electric vehicles.
The UK government no longer offers purchase grants for electric cars, but charging point grants of up to £350 remain available for home installation. This support can significantly reduce the initial setup costs for home charging.
Depreciation and Residual Values
High-performance electric vehicles from premium manufacturers have generally maintained strong residual values, partly due to limited supply and growing demand. Kia’s seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty provides additional peace of mind and should support long-term value retention.
Market Positioning and Competition Analysis
The EV9 GT occupies a unique position in the current automotive landscape. While numerous electric SUVs offer either performance or practicality, very few successfully combine both attributes at this level.
Direct Competitors
Tesla’s Model X remains the most obvious alternative, offering similar performance and seating capacity. However, the Kia provides more conventional interior design and superior build quality, plus the reassurance of an established dealer network throughout the UK.
BMW’s iX M60 delivers comparable performance but costs significantly more and offers less interior space. The Audi e-tron GT, while faster, is purely a four-seater and therefore unsuitable for larger families.
Availability and Ordering Information
Kia has opened order books for the EV9 GT immediately, though customers face a significant wait for delivery. The first UK examples aren’t expected until autumn 2025, reflecting both the complexity of the vehicle and strong anticipated demand.
Two configurations are available: the standard seven-seat layout costs £82,185, while those preferring more luxurious six-seat accommodation with captain’s chairs pay £83,185. Both variants include the full performance and technology package as standard.
Revolution or Evolution?
The Kia EV9 GT represents something genuinely new in the automotive world. Never before has a mainstream manufacturer successfully combined supercar-level performance with genuine seven-seat family practicality in an electric package.
Yes, £82,185 is serious money. But consider what you’re getting: a vehicle that can humiliate sports cars at traffic lights while transporting your entire extended family in luxury and comfort. The combination of instant electric torque, cutting-edge technology, and practical versatility creates a compelling proposition for those who refuse to compromise.
For families seeking the ultimate expression of electric performance without sacrificing space or luxury, the EV9 GT might just be the perfect solution. It’s not just transportation – it’s a statement that the future of family motoring is here, and it’s more exciting than we ever imagined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Kia EV9 GT qualify for any government grants? A: While vehicle purchase grants ended in 2022, you can still claim up to £350 towards home charging point installation through the EV chargepoint grant scheme.
Q: How much does the EV9 GT’s range decrease compared to standard models? A: The GT offers 280 miles versus 349 miles for the most efficient EV9 Air variant, representing a 69-mile reduction due to the higher performance.
Q: When will the first EV9 GT models arrive in the UK? A: First deliveries are scheduled for autumn 2025, with order books now open for immediate reservations.
Q: What’s included in the £82,185 price? A: The price includes the full performance package, 21-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, premium interior with Meridian audio, wireless charging, and all GT-specific styling elements.
Q: How long does it take to charge the EV9 GT? A: Using a 350kW rapid charger, the battery charges from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes, though such high-power chargers remain relatively uncommon.
Q: Is the EV9 GT suitable for towing? A: Kia hasn’t released official towing specifications yet, but given the power output and robust construction, it should handle substantial trailer weights when details are confirmed.