The EV9 is built on a 200 mm (7.9 inch) longer wheelbase than Kia’s gasoline-engine Telluride, but casts a similar shadow on all exterior dimensions, which places the EV9 in the XXL crossover segment.

The EV9 looks fresh, modern and purposeful. The cabin is very elegant, with a blocky, horizontal dashboard. Infotainment functions are touch-sensitive, with physical buttons operating the climate controls. Like the Telluride, cabin and cargo space are substantial.

The only battery pack available initially is rated at 99.8 kWh. The EV9 accelerates with great vigour and in near silence. The ride is absorbent, and handling is sound and predictable, but drivers are conscious of the prodigious weight (up to 5800 pounds) of the vehicle. Braking feels strong and the steering is nicely weighted and holds its line well.

Standard active safety equipment should include forward collision warning, junction turning intervention, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, a lane keep assist system and active cruise control with stop and go. Proposed options include active blind spot intervention and a 360-degree camera.