The upcoming launch of the 2024 Kia EV9 promises to set a new standard in the realm of electric vehicles, with high-quality features and advanced technology.

The latest addition to the Korean automaker's electric lineup, the EV9, is anticipated to provide a maximum range of 541km. The vehicle is poised to have its first public showcase at the upcoming Seoul Mobility Show. Kia aims to roll out this three-row SUV by the end of 2023.

Multiple powertrains are offered for the EV9, with early specifications detailing a standard model boasting a 160kW/350Nm single-motor rear-wheel drive that can reach 0-100km/h in 8.2 seconds. A more extended range model with similar specifications achieves 0-100km/h in 9.4 seconds. An even more powerful 283kW/600Nm dual-motor all-wheel-drive version can make the same sprint in an impressive 6.0 seconds.

A highlight for prospective buyers is the option to enhance dual-motor versions through the Kia Connect store's Boost feature. It enables the torque to be increased to 700Nm, reducing the 0-100km/h time to 5.3 seconds. Moreover, the EV9 can tow up to 2500kg.

While the standard rear-wheel-drive model employs a 76.1kWh battery, all other versions will be powered by a 99.8kWh battery. The EV9, employing the E-GMP platform, facilitates ultra-fast 800V charging. As per Kia, 15 minutes of charging can replenish up to 239km of range.

A standout attribute of the EV9 is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, enabling it to power appliances by delivering up to 3.68kW of power. The vehicle also supports over-the-air updates and will have several features available for download either through one-off purchases or on a subscription basis.

Safety is another focus for the EV9, with Kia integrating a hands-on detection sensor to enhance the vehicle's Level 3 autonomous driving capability - the Highway Driving Pilot. However, this feature won't be available at launch and will be implemented in selected markets.

The EV9's striking appearance boasts dimensions of 5010mm in length, 1980mm in width, and a height of 1755mm (1780mm on the GT-Line) on a 3100mm wheelbase. Kia has given special attention to aerodynamics, noting the first-ever 3D-sculpted underbody cover in the industry, resulting in a drag coefficient of 0.28.

Kia is set to offer the EV9 with 19-, 20-, and 21-inch alloy wheels. The EV9's design details include unique front and rear bumpers, roof racks, and the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille. For the interior, customers can choose from six different design combinations, including a light modern grey, elegant natural tones, and a sportier cabin for the GT-Line.

The spacious interior accommodates a six- or seven-seat configuration, with multiple seating options for the second row. The EV9's commitment to environmental consciousness is also reflected in its use of recycled plastics, and a pledge to phase out leather entirely.

The EV9 is the embodiment of Kia's ambitious drive toward the future of electric vehicles. As the South Korean car maker's largest EV offering to date, this flagship model sets a high bar in terms of innovation, sophistication, and sustainability. From its performance capabilities to its smart technology integrations, the EV9 is well poised to make a significant impact in the electric SUV market when it hits the roads in the coming months.

Kia has elegantly designed the EV9, taking inspiration from the Concept EV9 show car from 2021. The electric SUV features sharp lines, a rising window line, T-shaped tail-lights, and a unique closed-off front end, reflecting the sophisticated look of its predecessor. But the EV9 incorporates traditional headlight clusters, pop-out door handles, full-sized side mirrors and standard second-row doors for a more practical design.

The interior of the EV9 is equally impressive, equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays for the instruments and the infotainment system. An additional dedicated 5.0-inch display handles the air-conditioning controls. The cabin further features a floating centre console equipped with cupholders and a wireless smartphone charger.

An appealing feature of the EV9 is the capability of the second-row seats to swivel 180 degrees in six-seat versions, encouraging interaction with the third row. Reclining capabilities for the first and second-row seats are provided, ensuring optimal comfort for passengers.

The EV9 does not compromise on safety, offering features such as autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist, intelligent speed limit assist, and rear cross-traffic assist, to name a few. It also pioneers with a unique patent-pending B-pillar connection structure technology, indicating Kia's commitment to passive safety.

Details of battery packs and electric motors will be announced later, but it's expected that the top-of-the-range dual-motor models will be capable of towing up to 2040kg with a driving range of 386km. The torque output for these models stands at 651Nm, outshining other models in the lineup. In a feat comparable to a twin-turbo V6 Kia Stinger sports sedan, some models are reported to cover 0-100km/h in just five seconds.

The Australian debut of the 2024 Kia EV9 is slated for the third quarter of 2023, between July and September. While local details, including prices, are yet to be disclosed, indications from overseas suggest the EV9 could be Kia's most expensive vehicle, with a range possibly spanning from $90,000 to $120,000 before on-road costs.

Embodying Kia's vision for the future of mobility, the 2024 EV9 sets a new paradigm for electric vehicles, and its impending launch is anticipated with great excitement. Packed with advanced technology, impressive features, and exceptional performance capabilities, the Kia EV9 is all set to redefine the electric SUV market.