[Taboleo] "Perfect for Camping Trips" 2025 EV9

Over 500km Driving Range on a Single Charge Relieves Charging Concerns
Expanded Second-Row Convenience and Larger Cargo Space
High Price Burden... 2025 Model Effectively Price Reduced

The Kia EV9 is charging at an electric vehicle charging station. Photo by Kang Hee-jong.

"This would be perfect for camping." This was my first impression after receiving the Kia EV9 test drive vehicle on the 28th of last month and taking a look around the interior and exterior. The feeling after actually driving it was no different.

The EV9 generated high expectations but faced high prices and initial quality issues since its launch in March last year. While it was overlooked by domestic consumers, it swept various awards overseas, gaining recognition for its marketability. In March this year, it won the top prize, "World Car of the Year," at the 2024 World Car Awards held at the New York Auto Show. From January to August this year, 13,874 units were sold in the U.S. alone, surpassing nine times the domestic sales (1,478 units).

Domestically, the EV9 is gaining momentum through positive word of mouth from actual users. Positive reviews of the EV9 can frequently be found in electric vehicle communities. Currently, there is also a waiting period for delivery.

After personally experiencing the EV9 for two nights and three days, traveling around Seoul and nearby areas such as Guri and Pocheon, I was satisfied. The test model was the 2025 GT-Line.

Consumers choose electric vehicles to save on fuel costs, but it is also true that they have concerns about charging. The EV9 is equipped with a large-capacity 99.8-kilowatt-hour (kWh) nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) battery produced by SK On. It contains a high-nickel battery with 83% nickel content.

With the largest battery capacity in Korea, the EV9 can travel over 500 km on a single charge. The company officially states a driving range of 501 km based on 19-inch tires and 2WD.

When I charged the battery to 81% at a high-speed charging station, the estimated driving range increased to 538 km. This capacity allows for worry-free trips of 200 to 250 km. Trips such as Seoul to Pyeongchang (127 km) and Seoul to Daejeon (139 km) are easily manageable, while Seoul to Gwangju (269 km) and Seoul to Busan (329 km) would likely require one additional charge. Charging to over 90% can further extend the driving range.

One of the key features emphasized by the Kia EV9 is its charging speed. Despite the large battery capacity, charging time has been significantly reduced. The EV9 battery uses a silicon anode material to shorten charging time. According to the company, using a 350 kW ultra-fast charger, it takes 24 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.

However, 350 kW ultra-fast chargers are not yet widespread, and commonly seen fast chargers in cities are rated between 50 and 100 kW. On this day, it took me 14 minutes to charge about 17 kWh from 66% to 81% using a 100 kW fast charger. By rough calculation, charging the EV9 from 10% to 80% with a 100 kW charger would take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Due to the EV9’s heavy body weight approaching 2.6 tons, its energy efficiency is not particularly high. During city and highway driving, I observed an average energy consumption of around 5 km per kWh. This figure is expected to be lower during high-speed driving or in winter.

The EV9 provided the stability expected of a large SUV along with the acceleration performance typical of electric vehicles. It felt heavy at low speeds, but pressing the accelerator pedal quickly pushed the speed well beyond 100 km/h. While accelerating to overtake on the Guri-Pocheon Expressway, I experienced a stable speed sensation even up to 150 km/h.

As an electric vehicle, the EV9 also offers advanced features. It is equipped with driver assistance systems such as front and rear collision avoidance, lane departure assist, intelligent speed limit assist, blind-spot monitor, and driver attention warning. Even when I first received the vehicle and was unfamiliar with it, these assistance systems helped me drive safely. All functions can be operated via a 12.3-inch display, giving the impression of controlling the car with a tablet PC.

The view of the second row of the EV9. Photo by Kang Hee-jong.

My family, who joined me on the test drive, also expressed satisfaction. The second-row ride comfort was smoother compared to the SUV we previously used, and there was less bouncing when passing speed bumps or uneven roads. The second-row seats are equipped with armrests and leg rests, providing comfort. Although we did not actually use it, the second row can rotate 180 degrees to face the third row.

Trunk space when folding the third row of the EV9. Photo by Kang Hee-jong.

As someone who used to enjoy camping, I think the EV9 would be an excellent choice for camping enthusiasts. Folding down the third row provides ample space to store a lot of luggage. Folding down to the second row allows for comfortable car camping. Using the EV9’s V2L (Vehicle to Load) function, you can supply electricity needed for camping directly from the vehicle. There are power supply outlets located throughout the interior.

Despite the many advantages of the EV9, the price range is admittedly burdensome. The EV9’s starting price ranges from 73.37 million KRW (2WD Air) to 83.97 million KRW (GT-Line). Kia seems to be aware of this and, in August, released the 2025 model year update with expanded standard options while freezing prices, effectively aiming for a price reduction.