Vehicle Overview
The 2023 Kia EV9 Air RWD is a full-size electric SUV that expands Kia’s EV lineup with three-row seating and bold design. Launched in 2023, this 7-seat crossover blends zero-emission utility with spacious luxury on a dedicated EV platform.
| Segment | Full-size electric SUV |
| Body Style | 5-door three-row SUV |
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Trim | Air RWD |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive, single-speed reduction gear |
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Electric Motors | 1× Permanent-magnet synchronous (rear axle) |
| Power | 201 hp (150 kW) |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) |
| Battery Pack | 99.8 kWh lithium-ion |
| Driving Range | 379 km WLTP / approx. 240 miles EPA |
| 0–60 mph | 7.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 112 mph |
| Charging (AC) | 11 kW onboard (9–10 h full) |
| Charging (DC Fast) | Up to 200 kW (10–80% in ~28 min) |
| Wheelbase | 3,100 mm (122 in) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 5,015 × 1,995 × 1,755 mm |
| Curb Weight | 2,505 kg (5,523 lb) |
| Boot Capacity | 730 L (rear seats up) / 1,920 L (folded) |
Exterior Design
The EV9’s commanding presence and aerodynamic cues set it apart:
Digital “Tiger Face” LED lighting signature with illuminated grille surround
Flush door handles and smooth body panels for reduced drag
Pronounced wheel arches on 20″ alloy wheels
Floating roofline with panoramic glass roof option
| Colour options | Quantum Yellow, Steel Gray, Snow White Pearl |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
A versatile, tech-rich cabin designed for up to seven
| Seating | Vegan leather with heated front and second-row seats |
| Trim | Soft-touch surfaces, ambient LED lighting, and walnut-effect accents |
| Space | Flat floor and adjustable second-row slides for generous legroom |
| Storage | Deep center console, door pockets, and under-floor compartments |
| Ergonomics | Dual 12.3″ curved displays angled toward driver and front passenger |
Features & Infotainment
Advanced connectivity and convenience
Dual 12.3″ curved screens for infotainment and digital cluster
Head-up display with EV-specific graphics
Bose® 14-speaker premium audio system
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, OTA software updates
Smartphone app integration for pre-conditioning and charging management
Safety & Ratings
Comprehensive safety suite for peace of mind
| Euro NCAP | 5-star rating (2023) |
| Standard systems | Forward AEB, Lane Keep Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance |
| Driver aids | Highway Driving Assist 2, Safe Exit Warning, Rear-Cross Traffic Braking |
| Airbags | Front, side, curtain for all three rows |
Driving Performance
Refined EV dynamics with three-row practicality
Instant torque for smooth acceleration and consistent power delivery
Adaptive dampers (on Air) for balanced comfort and control
Regenerative braking levels adjustable via steering-wheel paddles
| Drive Modes | Eco, Comfort, Sport, Snow |
EV Range & Charging
Solid range with fast-charge capability
| WLTP Range | 379 km |
| EPA Estimate | ~240 miles real-world |
| AC Charging | 11 kW onboard for overnight home charging |
| DC Fast Charging | 200 kW peak for 10–80% in ~28 minutes |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The EV9 excels at carrying people and gear
| Cargo | 730 L behind third row; 1,920 L with seats folded |
| Second-row functionality | Flip-and-slide seats for easy third-row access |
| Frunk | 85 L additional storage for cables or small items |
| Visibility | Large windows, available surround-view camera system |
Warranty & Maintenance
Robust coverage for hassle-free ownership
| Basic Warranty | 7 years / 100,000 mi |
| Battery Warranty | 7 years / 100,000 mi |
| Service Intervals | 12 months / 15,000 km |
| Roadside Assist | 7 years included |
Price & Value for Money
Competitive in the full-size EV segment
| UK MSRP | From £56,000 (pre-incentives) |
Key Options
Panoramic glass roof (+£1,500)
Tow pack (2,500 kg) (+£800)
Premium paint (+£900)
| Value Note | Delivers three-row EV utility and fast charging below many rivals |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Range (WLTP) | 0–60 mph | Boot (L) | From Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 Air RWD (2023) | 379 km | 7.5 s | 730 | £56,000 |
| Tesla Model X (Long Range) | 560 km | 4.4 s | 783 | £80,000 |
| Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (450+) | 600 km | 5.9 s | 690 | £90,000 |
| Audi Q8 e-tron 55 | 465 km | 5.6 s | 605 | £75,000 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Spacious three-row interior with versatile seating
Fast-charging 200 kW capability for long trips
Distinctive “Digital Tiger Face” design
Comprehensive safety and driver-assist features
Cons
Range trails some premium rivals
RWD only on Air trim (AWD available higher up)
Curb weight impacts efficiency under spirited driving
Overall Rating
4.2 / 5 stars
We award it 4.2 / 5 for its blend of practicality, fast-charge convenience, and three-row EV versatility.
Final Verdict
The 2023 Kia EV9 Air RWD is perfect for families seeking a spacious, three-row electric SUV that balances everyday usability with modern tech and fast charging—all wrapped in a bold, distinctive package.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Kia EV9 Air RWD is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kia EV9 Air RWD good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.