Kia has already begun teasing the upcoming EV9 electric three-row SUV and prior to that, Kia supposedly even sent a survey to prospective electric SUV customers that leaked details about the EV9's powertrain, price, and even range. We know that it will heavily borrow the look of the EV9 Concept that previewed the production model, but thanks to these leaked photos, we're glad to say that the production model sticks relatively faithfully to the radically-designed prototype.
The Production Version Of The EV9 Sticks Closely To The Concept
These photos reveal the brawny look of the EV9. The front end is characterized by a tall nose that's flanked by vertical LED headlights with LED daytime running lights that merge with the black trim piece that forms the Korean brand's signature "Tiger Nose" grille.
Just like the concept, there are trapezoidal wheel arches surrounding the massive wheels of a yet undisclosed size, and a blacked-out A-pillar that creates a floating roof effect. Moving toward the side, you can see its upright stance, while the D-pillar kicks upward to break the monotony of the EV9's slab-sided appearance.
The use of gloss black plastic and satin silver trim also helps in making the EV9 look more athletic unlike if it was mainly body-colored panels. Lastly, the rear end comes with vertical LED taillights that mirror those at the front, and as seen in the photos, there's a variant without a sunroof and another one with a two-piece glass roof. Lastly, the rear end comes with vertical LED taillights that mirror those at the front.
Two Large Screens Dominate The Interior
Thankfully, there are also leaked photos of the interior, and because these are once again pixelated, some tiny details are hidden from plain sight. Easily noticeable are the two large displays along with a couple of toggle switches. Just like on the EV6, the center armrest is also separated from the dash, which enables a bit of added storage in between the front seats.
We also expect features such as heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, a premium surround sound system, as well as seating for either seven or eight occupants. In January, a leaked customer survey revealed that the Kia EV9 won't have the same range as the smaller EV6, no thanks in part to just how big this SUV is going to be.
Depending on the configuration and variant, the EV9 will allegedly have a range between 220 and 290 miles, and power figures ranging from 200 to 400 horsepower. A top-of-the-range model will come with 21-inch wheels and an extra 0.4 inches of ground clearance, and this is probably going to be a special off-road variant.
Based on these leaked photos, it seems we won't have to wait any longer for the EV9 to be fully revealed. So, now that you've seen it, do you like the look of the EV9, or does the Rivian R1S look better?