The 2024 Kia EV9 Land AWD: Where Luxury Meets Electrification

Kia throws down the gauntlet in the electric SUV arena with the 2024 EV9 Land AWD. This three-row, all-electric beast boasts a blend of rugged capability, futuristic design, and spacious comfort, all wrapped in a stunning (and somewhat controversial) Ivory Matte Silver paint job. We spent a week behind the wheel, putting the EV9 Land through its paces on city streets, winding highways, and even a light off-road excursion. Here’s the verdict:

Exterior Design: A Head-Turner

The EV9 Land breaks the mold of traditional SUV design. The “Tiger Face” grille, a signature Kia element, is re-imagined as a smooth silver panel with a matrix of integrated daytime running lights. This fascia, combined with the sharp, angular headlights, gives the EV9 a futuristic, almost robotic presence. The Ivory Matte Silver paint job is certainly eye-catching, but it’s a love-it-or-hate-it proposition. While it undeniably makes a statement, it can also appear to mask some of the intricate design details. Gloss paint options might better showcase the EV9’s bold lines and creases.

Moving to the side profile, the EV9 Land’s long wheelbase and short overhangs create a sense of power and purpose. The available 21-inch wheels fill the arches nicely, and the integrated retractable door handles add a touch of sleekness. Black cladding along the fenders and lower body portions hints at the EV9’s off-road capability, while the subtle roofline spoiler adds a touch of sporty flair.

The rear of the EV9 Land is dominated by the elongated taillights, which some might find reminiscent of Volvo’s design language. A tow hitch comes standard on the Land trim, hinting at its ability to handle light towing duties. Overall, the EV9 Land’s exterior design is undeniably bold and pushes boundaries. It’s a car that will turn heads, but whether those turns are in admiration or confusion depends on your taste.

Interior: Spacious Comfort with a Tech Focus

Step inside the EV9 Land, and you’re greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. Kia has opted for a clean and minimalist design aesthetic, with high-quality materials throughout. The Ivory Matte Silver theme continues inside, with lighter tones on the seats and door panels contrasting nicely with the darker dashboard and center console. Heated and ventilated seats are standard in the front row, offering exceptional comfort on long journeys. Both rows offer ample legroom and headroom, making the EV9 Land a true three-row family hauler.

Technology takes center stage in the EV9 Land’s cabin. A large, curved dual-screen display dominates the dashboard, housing the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The system is responsive and easy to use, with intuitive menus and clear graphics. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and a head-up display keeps important information within your field of vision. Wireless charging and ample USB ports ensure all your devices stay juiced up on the go.

One minor gripe: the abundance of touch controls can be distracting while driving. Physical buttons for essential functions like climate control would be a welcome addition. Especially the few buttons seemingly flush in the IP but not distinct buttons are quite distracting. They are difficult to operate while driving and often lead to unwanted actions. This should have no place in this sophisticated interior. Overall, the EV9 Land’s interior is a comfortable and well-designed space that offers a blend of luxury and functionality.

Performance: Power and Efficiency in Equal Measure

The EV9 Land boasts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain that produces a healthy 379 horsepower and a stout 516 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a surprisingly sprightly driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, and the EV9 Land effortlessly merges onto highways and tackles passing maneuvers. The official 0-60 mph time comes in at a respectable 5.0 seconds.

But don’t let the power fool you – the EV9 Land is also impressively efficient. With an estimated range of 270 miles, you can confidently embark on long road trips without range anxiety. The regenerative braking system offers different levels of intensity, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your preference.

Off-road capability is another highlight of the EV9 Land. Standard all-wheel drive, ample ground clearance, and selectable drive modes make it adept at handling light off-road trails. However, the long wheelbase and luxurious interior might make some owners hesitant to take it on anything too extreme.

Verdict: A Bold Contender in the Electric SUV Arena

The 2024 Kia EV9 Land AWD is a bold statement in the electric SUV segment. It offers a compelling blend of power, efficiency, space, and technology, all wrapped in a head-turning (or perhaps head-scratching) design.