Power and Performance Constraints

The primary and perhaps least concerning compromise made by Kia in the EV9 is its power output. The base model will feature a rear-mounted motor that delivers a modest 201-215 horsepower, depending on the chosen battery pack. Interestingly, the larger battery limits the motor's output to the lower figure.

When it comes to acceleration, the standard-range model achieves 0-60 mph in 8 seconds, while the long-range variant requires 9.2 seconds to reach the same speed. Although performance may not be the top priority for many buyers of three-row SUVs, the numbers are less impressive when compared to even a $35,000 minivan, which could outperform both versions.

Fortunately, a more powerful dual-motor option boasting 379 horsepower will also be available, reducing the 0-60 time to a more respectable 5.2 seconds.

Kia will provide two battery options: a 76-kWh pack and a larger 100-kWh variant. While the smaller battery's range remains undisclosed, the long-range rear-wheel-drive model is expected to achieve about 300 miles. This brings us to a critical concern: for a hefty starting price of $60,000, consumers receive a three-row SUV with roughly 200 horsepower and a 240-mile range. Although the EV9 offers enhanced capabilities with an upgrade to nearly double the horsepower and an additional 60 miles of range, this comes with a price tag approaching $70,000.

At this price point, the Kia EV9 finds itself competing with premium models like the Rivian R1S and Volvo EX90. This pricing dilemma is not isolated to Kia; Volkswagen's forthcoming 7-seater ID. Buzz is also anticipated to start around $60,000, offering approximately 250 miles and under 300 horsepower in its base form.

While some consumers may overlook these underwhelming specifications to embrace EV technology, the current market expectations for electric vehicles—where they should outperform their gasoline counterparts and alleviate range anxiety—suggest that affordable three-row EVs are still not fully equipped to meet these standards.

Challenges of EV Technology for Larger Vehicles

It appears that neither Volkswagen's ID. Buzz nor Kia's EV9 is making a compelling case for families needing seven seats to switch to electric vehicles. Unfortunately, the situation does not improve upon further examination.

In addition to their average range, high price tags, and modest performance, EVs also struggle with towing capabilities. One of the key selling points highlighted by Kia for the EV9 is its towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, which is competitive with most gas-powered alternatives. However, real-world tests, such as those conducted by Car and Driver on the Rivian R1T, reveal that towing heavy loads can drastically cut range—often by half.

For instance, if you were to tow approximately 5,500 pounds, the R1T’s highway range was reduced significantly. Moreover, EVs generally achieve less than 90% of their claimed range on highways. Therefore, when towing a substantial load, one might realistically expect a range of around 135 miles for the EV9.

While it could be argued that road trips may become more manageable with breaks every couple of hours, many owners would likely find the prospect of stopping at a charging station—especially while towing—less than appealing.

Ultimately, towing restrictions may not be the deal-breaker for most EV9 buyers, but they represent yet another compromise associated with a vehicle costing over $60,000. Unless consumers are prepared to invest more than $80,000 for a truly premium option, such as the Rivian R1S or Tesla Model X, it seems that three-row EVs still have a long way to go in today's automotive landscape.