The EV9 GT is a powerhouse, featuring dual motors tuned to deliver a combined output of 501 horsepower. That’s a significant bump from the standard all-wheel-drive EV9, which produces 378 horsepower via its front and rear motors. The GT’s upgraded powertrain includes a 214-horsepower motor up front and a robust 362-horsepower motor at the rear. While Kia is still finalizing the exact figures, these upgrades are already impressive, making the EV9 GT a force to be reckoned with on both the highway and twisty back roads.

With this extra power, the EV9 GT accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds—0.7 seconds faster than the already sporty GT-Line AWD variant. To manage all that extra speed and power, Kia has equipped the GT with an enhanced suspension system featuring adaptive dampers, larger brakes, and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. Wrapped in Continental tires on striking 21-inch wheels, the EV9 GT is designed to corner as confidently as it accelerates. A standout feature of the EV9 GT is Kia’s Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system, a tech-forward nod to traditional internal-combustion engines. Adapted from Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N, VGS simulates the feel of driving a gas-powered vehicle with artificial engine sounds, simulated gear shifts, and torque cuts. Whether you’re in automatic mode or manually rowing through "gears" with paddle shifters, VGS adds a layer of driving engagement rarely seen in EVs. For enthusiasts who miss the visceral experience of traditional driving, this feature is a game-changer.

The EV9 GT looks as dynamic as it drives. Beyond its exclusive 21-inch wheels, it sports unique exterior trim and lime-green accents that set it apart from other EV9 models. Inside, Kia has fitted the cabin with bolstered sport seats upholstered in Alcantara, adding a premium, performance-focused touch to the three-row interior.

Kia has packed the EV9 GT with cutting-edge driver-assistance features, ensuring it remains family-friendly despite its sporty upgrades. One notable addition is the inclusion of a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, making the EV9 GT compatible with Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. This ensures fast and hassle-free charging, a critical advantage as EV infrastructure continues to expand.

Unlike other EV9 models built in Georgia, the GT will be manufactured in South Korea, reflecting Kia’s commitment to producing its flagship performance SUV with precision and care.

While Kia has revealed much about the EV9 GT’s performance and features, two crucial details remain under wraps: price and range. The EV9 GT is expected to cost slightly more than the current GT-Line AWD model, which starts at $75,395. As for range, the added performance likely means a slight drop from the GT-Line AWD’s 270-mile EPA estimate.

Deliveries of the EV9 GT are slated to begin in the latter half of 2025. Families and driving enthusiasts alike will have to wait to see if Kia can deliver the perfect balance of power, practicality, and luxury.

The 2026 Kia EV9 GT is more than just a family SUV—it’s a performance statement. By combining staggering acceleration, innovative features like Virtual Gear Shift, and standout styling, Kia has created a three-row EV that doesn’t compromise on excitement. Whether you’re navigating school drop-offs or carving up a winding road, the EV9 GT proves that electric SUVs can be both practical and pulse-pounding.