Kelley Blue Book gives the Kia EV9 a near-top rating, highlighting its boxy styling, genuinely usable third row, and class-leading 800-volt architecture for very rapid DC fast charging. It undercuts most three-row EVs while offering strong value against the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S. The ride is compliant and quiet in standard trims, though GT-Line's 21-inch wheels make it firmer. Charging from 10 to 80 percent takes about 24 minutes on a 350 kW station, among the best in the segment. Standard equipment includes dual 12.3-inch displays, Highway Driving Assist 2, and over-the-air updates. Cons include no spare tire and noticeable cold-weather range loss. KBB's verdict: the most practical and affordable seven-seat EV on sale today.

Car and Driver awarded the Kia EV9 a perfect 5-star rating and named it to its 10Best list, calling it the first truly compelling three-row electric SUV for mainstream buyers. In testing, a dual-motor GT-Line hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, described as unexpectedly swift for a 5,600-pound seven-seater. The EV9 impresses with ride comfort, a quiet cabin on smooth surfaces, accurate steering, and clever packaging with sliding and reclining second-row seats. Shortcomings include middling real-world highway range, hard plastic trim in lower doors, and limited physical controls for climate functions. Still, the editors call it a landmark vehicle that leapfrogs rivals on price, performance, charging speed, and usability, making it the default recommendation for families switching to an EV without sacrificing third-row practicality.