The EV9 ADVNTR (Adventure) and PV5 WKNDR (Weekender) (Image courtesy of Kia)
SEOUL, May 18 (Korea Bizwire) — Kia’s flagship electric SUV, the EV9, continues to earn top marks in global automotive comparisons, outscoring luxury competitors such as Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi in recent performance and value assessments by leading German automotive publications.
German automotive magazine Auto Bild recently conducted a head-to-head evaluation of the Kia EV9 GT-Line and the Volvo EX90 Twin Motor AWD. The EV9 received a total of 589 points, surpassing the EX90’s 571, with higher ratings across key categories including convenience, driving performance, and efficiency.
Despite having a lower peak motor output on paper, the EV9 demonstrated faster acceleration, 20% higher real-world energy efficiency, and faster charging speeds—reaching 10% to 80% battery charge in just 24 minutes, compared to the EX90’s 32 minutes. Kia attributed this to the strength of its E-GMP platform and high-efficiency electrification systems.
Only 21 EV9s were produced at the Georgia plant through the third quarter of 2024. (Image courtesy of Kia America)
The EV9 also scored points for space efficiency. Though it is 20mm shorter in overall length than the EX90, its wheelbase is 115mm longer, allowing for superior third-row and cargo usability. Additionally, the EV9 is priced over €20,000 (approximately KRW 31.5 million) lower than the Volvo, further enhancing its overall value proposition.
In a separate evaluation conducted last year by Auto Zeitung, another respected German publication, the EV9 outperformed the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (450 4MATIC) and Audi Q8 e-tron (55 Quattro), both significantly more expensive, and was named the top performer.
“EV9 has rightfully earned its place at the top against premium German electric SUVs, especially for its unbeatable combination of performance and price,” Auto Zeitung stated.
Since its launch in June 2023, the EV9 has garnered numerous international honors, including World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle of the Year at the 2024 World Car Awards. It was also named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, Women’s World Car of the Year, and UK Car of the Year.
In safety, the EV9 earned the highest safety ratings from crash-testing agencies in the United States, Europe, and South Korea.
“The EV9’s continued recognition reflects its unique competitiveness and its central role in Kia’s electrification strategy,” a Kia spokesperson said. “We will continue to enhance our global footprint through advanced technology and customer-centric innovation.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
