2026 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD: The new age of pampering
Being pampered is something that we all strive for.
Obviously, we can only achieve this once all of our basic necessities (food, water, shelter, etc.) are comfortably addressed – upon doing so, some people enjoy a spa date or a sumptuous meal. Indeed, the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary traces the etymology of the word “pamper” to the 14th century, when it pertained to cramming someone with rich food.
In a sense, pampering ourselves is akin to indulging our bodies (and spirits) beyond mere sustenance. This philosophy is what gave birth to the luxury car – although the automobile had been considered a luxury item upon its inception, advances in technology and the global economy meant cars could be manufactured for a wider range of socioeconomic classes.
Luxury cars were often gas-guzzling barges that certainly pampered the occupants, but were signifiers of unabashed consumption (and consequently, wealth). This was made abundantly clear by the spectacular car collection of the Discayas, who are accused of misusing government funds for allegedly dubious flood-control projects.
Kia seems set to redefine what a luxury car should be with its EV9 battery-electric vehicle (EV). How does it fare?
Era-defining style
Since its global launch in 2023, the EV9 has set the stylistic direction of all Kia vehicles.
Its “Digital Tiger Face” front end includes powerful LED headlights with LED daytime running lights that extend dramatically into the lower grill. The bumper mixes gloss-black and satin-silver elements to emphasize the EV9’s strong and blocky appearance, all while complimenting the stunning Ocean Blue paintwork on our test unit.
This big Kia’s side profile is equally striking, particularly the sharply angled roofline and attractive, gloss-black trim that runs along the fenders and the bottom of the doors. These work nicely with the black, 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 285/45-series, EV-rated tires.
Other neat features on the EV9 include the retractable door handles and its signature side-view cameras that replace traditional glass mirrors – apart from making this big crossover look sleeker, these improve aerodynamics at higher speeds.
Meanwhile, the LED taillights follow a similar pattern as the headlights, while the huge tailgate spoiler adds a sporty touch to the formal rear end. Overall, the EV9 establishes a strong visual presence that combines aesthetic elements from past and future.
Fabulous cabin
Things get even better when you step inside the EV9, which is lined in dark-gray leather that is supremely soft to the touch.
The first and second rows get electrically adjustable, air-conditioned Relaxation Seats that even include leg rests and massagers (the latter strangely missing in the front passenger seat). Wherever you sit, you are pampered so thoroughly that you find yourself not caring about traffic congestion (a feat that I’ve only experienced in Audis and Porsches).
There are also two crystal-clear, 12.3-inch displays for the digital gauges and the touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And unlike many Chinese luxury EVs, the EV9 still has physical switches for the volume and the powerful tri-zone climate control – no need to infuriate yourself with digging through dozens of menus.
The most unique feature of this big Kia is the aforementioned side-view cameras, which have screens that are mounted on the top of the door cards. Once you get used to it, the system offers a great view outside, whether in low-light or high-glare conditions.
Special mention must also go to the Meridien surround-sound system – whatever music you play, it sounds absolutely superb (helped greatly by this EV’s unmatched refinement). And if you need to haul the whole family, there is reasonable space for two passengers under 5’7” in the electrically folding, third-row seats.
Stout power
Unlike luxury cars of yore, the EV9 is propelled using no fossil fuels.
You get a 99.8-kWh battery mated to dual electric motors, making this sumptuous leviathan all-wheel drive. Combined output is a hearty 380 horsepower and 600 Newton-meters of torque that allows this two-and-a-half-ton electric palace to go from 0 to 100 km/h in under 5.5 seconds.
The acceleration is excitingly rapid in Sport mode, even when the EV9 is fully loaded. Happily, it comes with powerful brakes controlled by a slightly spongy pedal, while the light and responsive steering could do with more feel.
However, it’s the EV9’s suspension that truly impresses – even without the massaging seats, the ride is supple without being floaty. And although being a passenger is more fulfilling, being behind the wheel means you are rewarded with reasonable body roll should you wish to make the most of its instant punch and good traction.
Energy consumption is likewise impressive – we got 5.7 to 6.0 kilometers per kWh, whether in the city or on the expressway. This means a full charge is good for up to 570 kilometers (a figure that can easily be beaten with more use of the adjustable regenerative braking system).
And as expected for a vehicle in this price point, the EV9 comes standard with the Kia DriveWise active-safety suite. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Forward/Side/Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist 2 and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
Luxury that whispers
At P5,938,000, the 2026 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD is priced in a realm of motoring that demands the best of the best.
And given its uplifting features and stupendous performance, it certainly comports itself very well among three-row vehicles (EV or otherwise). Perhaps the EV9’s only issue is its lack of brand prestige – Kia Philippines must offer a truly unbeatable customer experience to sway long-time luxury-car owners into its cosseting colossus.
Rivals include the sensational P5,450,000 Volvo XC90 T8 Ultra Plug-in Hybrid, which offers even more electrified performance and one of the most exquisite interiors in the business (plus that prestigious Volvo badge). And then there’s the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 at P5,758,000 – a large turbodiesel SUV that comes with its own weight in pure clout.
But one thing is for sure – the Kia EV9 certainly proves that pampering need not be a guilty pleasure.
