Kia EV9 GT brings pace and simulated gearshift
Words NZ Autocar | Images Kia
Kia’s huge EV9 can now run 0-100 in 4.6sec, thanks to the introduction of a new 500hp+ GT model.
That makes it one of the fastest three-row SUVs available. Only the seven-seat SQ7 is quicker, clocking in at 4.1sec. Oh, and the AMG GLS 63 does it in 4.2sec.
Creating the added urge is a 160kW motor driving the front axle and a 270kW unit at the rear. The total system output is a claimed 374kW/800Nm. Prior to its arrival, the EV9 range-topper was the GT-Line. It outputs 283kW and 700Nm, for a 0-100 time of 6.0sec.
As well as an uptick in output, the EV9 GT gets the simulated gearbox (virtual gear shift or VGS) and engine sounds, borrowed from sister brand Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N.
Check out our review of the Kia EV9 GT-Line here.
Paddles on the steering wheel control this and it adds engagement to the electric driving experience.
Kia has also made a number of tweaks to the almost 2.7 tonne GT to ensure it corners with as much pace. It now comes with electronic suspension (adaptive damping). This adjusts firmness based on the car’s drive mode. An electronic limited-slip differential distributes power to the wheels with the most traction. Wider 21-inch rubber helps it stick better while bigger front brakes (with green calipers) counteract the added performance.
The EV9 GT’s range claim is 450km per charge, slightly down on the 505km of the other dual-motor EV9s. A recharge of its 99.8kWh battery from 10-80 per cent takes 24 minutes, says Kia.
The interior is similar to that of other EV9s, except that there is a range of neon-green highlights, on the steering wheel, and GT-only sports seats. These are finished in Alcantara and artificial leather. Ambient lighting can also be switched to the matching neon green hue.
The GT arrives in Q3 this year in Europe, costing a similar amount to a Volvo EX90. It will be available in either six- or seven-seat configuration. A Kia NZ representative told us; “While there are currently no plans to introduce the GT specification into the NZ market, we’re always reviewing our product lineup and considering opportunities that best suit our customers. We’ll be sure to share any updates if that changes in the future.”
