Kia EV9 GT has unveiled its most powerful family electric vehicle yet, with the 2026 EV9 GT set to electrify Australian roads in the second half of 2025. This flagship variant represents a significant leap forward in electric SUV performance, challenging traditional notions of what a family hauler can achieve.
The South Korean manufacturer isn’t holding back with this latest offering, packing substantial mechanical upgrades and aesthetic enhancements that set it apart from the existing EV9 lineup. Car Expert confirms the Australian launch timing aligns with global availability, bringing cutting-edge electric vehicle technology to local families seeking both practicality and performance.
Powertrain Excellence and Performance Metrics
The EV9 GT’s dual-motor setup delivers impressive acceleration figures, combining a 160kW front motor with a substantial 270kW rear motor for a total system output of 374kW. This represents a significant 91kW increase over the current GT-Line flagship model, translating to noticeably improved real-world performance.
Acceleration from standstill to 100km/h drops to just 4.3 seconds – a remarkable 0.7-second improvement that puts this family SUV into sports car territory. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction delivery across various road conditions.
| 2026 Kia EV9 GT Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Total System Power | 374kW (501hp) |
| Front Motor | 160kW |
| Rear Motor | 270kW |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-100km/h | 4.3 seconds |
| Wheels | 21-inch alloys |
| Tyres | 285/45R-21 Continental |
| Seating | 6-seat configuration |
| Expected Price | $130,000+ |
Advanced Technology Integration
Electronic Controlled Suspension
The EV9 GT introduces electronically controlled suspension technology – a first for any three-row SUV from Kia. This sophisticated system adapts damping characteristics across multiple drive modes, with a dedicated green GT button providing access to the stiffest suspension setting for enhanced handling dynamics.
Virtual Gear Shift Technology
Following the broader Hyundai Motor Group strategy, the EV9 GT incorporates Virtual Gear Shift functionality. This innovative system simulates traditional automatic transmission behaviour through artificial gear changes, complete with paddle shifter control and accompanying audio feedback via the electric Active Sound Design system.
Design and Interior Enhancements
The performance flagship receives distinctive visual updates including a revised front grille pattern, updated bumper design, and signature neon green brake calipers visible through the 21-inch alloy wheels. High-performance Continental tyres ensure optimal grip levels match the increased power output.
Interior appointments reflect the GT’s sporting intentions with deeply bolstered seats featuring Alcantara inserts and bright green accent stitching. The unique steering wheel design incorporates the GT-specific controls while maintaining the EV9’s premium cabin ambiance.
Market Positioning and Pricing
Car Expert analysis suggests the EV9 GT will command a premium over the current $121,000 GT-Line model, potentially exceeding $130,000 before on-road costs. This pricing strategy aligns with the $12,000 gap observed between GT-Line and GT variants in Kia’s smaller EV6 range.
The flagship directly competes with the incoming Hyundai Ioniq 9, though the Kia’s performance advantage remains significant compared to the Ioniq 9’s maximum 0-100km/h time of 5.2 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the 2026 Kia EV9 GT arrive in Australia?
A: The EV9 GT is confirmed for Australian launch in the second half of 2025.
Q: How much faster is the GT compared to the current EV9?
A: The GT accelerates 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds, 0.7 seconds faster than the GT-Line.
Q: Will the EV9 GT have seven seats like other Australian EV9 models?
A: No, the GT features six-seat configuration with captain’s chairs in the second row.
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