Kia Australia has introduced a new flagship variant for its large electric SUV, the EV9, with the highly anticipated GT trim now priced at $129,250 (before on-road costs). This addition comes more than two years after the EV9 initially launched in the Australian market in late 2023 with three distinct variants.
Introducing the Powerful EV9 GT
The new top-spec GT variant positions itself as the most potent and luxurious iteration of the EV9 to date. It boasts a dual-motor powertrain engineered to deliver an impressive output of up to 374 kW of power and 740 Nm of torque. This enhanced performance allows the substantial SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 4.5 seconds, while still offering a WLTP-rated driving range of up to 510 km.
Design and Comfort Enhancements
Visually, the EV9 GT distinguishes itself with several exterior updates, including new 21-inch black alloy wheels and a digital LED grille. Inside, the GT variant introduces second-row “relaxation seats” as standard, elevating passenger comfort. Reflecting Kia’s commitment to the Australian market, the EV9 GT has undergone a localised ride and handling evaluation. This process involves specific suspension tuning to better suit local road conditions and enhance ride comfort, particularly on rougher surfaces.
EV9 Range and Specifications
The Kia EV9 is a spacious seven-seater family electric SUV, measuring 5.01 metres in length. The Australian lineup offers two powertrain configurations and two battery options:
- Air RWD: Equipped with a 76.1 kWh battery, this variant offers a WLTP range of 443 km.
- Earth AWD: Features a larger 99.8 kWh battery, providing a WLTP range of 521 km.
- GT-Line AWD: Also uses the 99.8 kWh battery, with a WLTP range of 505 km.
- GT AWD (New): The new top-tier model, with a 99.8 kWh battery and a WLTP range of 510 km.
Kia has indicated that more detailed specifications for the new GT variant will be released in the coming weeks, prior to its official launch.
Pricing Comparison
The pricing for the 2026 Kia EV9 range is as follows:
| Battery | Trim | Powertrain | WLTP Range | RRP (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 76.1 kWh
Standard Range |
Air RWD | Single Motor RWD | 443 km | $97,000 |
| 99.8 kWh
Long Range |
Earth AWD | Dual Motor AWD | 521 km | $106,500 |
| GT-Line AWD | 505 km | $121,000 | ||
| GT AWD | 510 km | $129,250 |
The introduction of the GT variant signifies Kia’s strategy to offer increasingly performance-oriented and premium options within its growing electric vehicle portfolio.