2026 Kia EV9GT Electric Performance SUV debuts with 501 hp

Kia's popular EV9 electric 3-row SUV won a high-performance variant in the form of the EV9GT, which debuted Thursday at the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show.Kia also announced the updated EV6.

The EV9GT is expected to arrive at the dealership in the second half of next year as a 2026 model. It comes standard with a dual motor, all-wheel drive powertrain that generates peak 501 hp.

This isn't as high as the 6 horsepower generated by the smaller EVGT 576, but it still hustle the 6〜seat EV9 from 0-60mph in a brisk 4.3 seconds, Kia estimates. Currently, the EV9 tops out at 379 horsepower.

Kia does not mention which battery the EV9GT is equipped with, but the capacity should at least match the size of the largest battery currently offered by the EV9 at 99.8kwh. Thanks to the 800-volt technology, when using the right DC fast charger, you can charge 25% to 10% in less than 80 minutes. All Ev9s in the U.S. will come standard with NACS charging ports starting the first half of next year, making it convenient to use one of the many Tesla DC fast charging stations.1

Performance upgrades do not stop on the EV9GT powertrain. Other features include active damper, large front brake rotor, electronic limited slip differential, Normal, Eco, Sports, Custom (My Drive) mode de mode, adjust the damper, steering, brake and other elements.

Kia also equips the EV9GT with something called a Virtual Gear Shift (VGS). EVs typically do not have a multi-gear transmission, but the VGS system is designed to simulate the feel of the gear shifting. The driver can also use the paddle behind the steering wheel to start 1 of these false shifts. This system is similar to the N e shift function of sister brand Hyundai's Ioniq5N

EV9GT can be distinguished by its unique lighting pattern in the front grille area, as well as its unique 21-inch wheels, neon green brake calipers. The neon green, which is becoming a signature of Kia's GT models, is a cabin accent seen in a variety of areas, including the steering wheel and seats The front seats of the EV9GT are trimmed with Alcantara inserts and embossed with the GT logo. The logo is also repeated in the Infotainment System menu.

EV sales are not growing as fast as they used to be, but the EV9 continues to find many buyers. U.S. sales totaled 17,911 units, surpassing EV6 sales. This popularity led Kia to start production of the EV9 in the U.S. in the summer, but Kia confirmed that the EV9GT will only be built at its plant in South Korea.

Pricing information is expected to be released closer to market next year.

Kia may not be complete with a new version of the EV9. The automaker used the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas this month to show off its rugged EV9 concept ready to head off-road. Stephen Center, Chief Operating Officer of Kia America, said in a statement that the concept offers a glimpse into what the future of Kia might hold.