Kia EV9 Triumphs as 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

In a notable achievement for Kia, the all-electric EV9 has been named the 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year. This prestigious award, bestowed by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury, marks a consecutive win for Kia, reinforcing the brand’s strong presence in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The Kia EV9’s recognition stems from its outstanding performance in areas such as automotive innovation, design, safety features, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience, and value. This is Kia’s third win in the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year category within a span of five years, highlighting the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the automotive industry.

Advanced Powertrain and Electrification

Leveraging Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9 is at the forefront of electric vehicle technology, incorporating fourth-generation battery technology for superior energy density. Available in Canada, the EV9 comes with two battery options: a 76.1-kWh battery providing up to 370 km of range, and a 99.8-kWh battery offering up to 489 km for the single-motor setup and up to 451 km for the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version. Additionally, its fast-charging capability ensures a rapid recharge from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes.

Impact on the Market and Pricing Strategy

The introduction of the EV9 as Kia’s flagship electric three-row SUV marks a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion into the electric vehicle market. With a starting MSRP of $59,995 in Canada, the EV9 is positioned as a competitive and attractive option for consumers seeking a spacious, environmentally friendly, and high-performance electric vehicle.

“The Kia EV9 represents a new paradigm in the three-row SUV segment,” said Seungkyu (Sean) Yoon, president and CEO, Kia North America and Kia America. “For the second consecutive year, the three finalists have been EVs or included EVs as part of a larger lineup, which illustrates where the segment is headed. This win proves that EV9 is not only a top utility vehicle, but also an exemplary EV.”