• The performance model of the EV9 three-row electric SUV debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show
• Expect a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds for the 2026 Kia EV9 GT
• The 2026 Kia EV9 comes with a NACS port to access Tesla’s Supercharger network

Three-row SUVs aren’t generally the first choice for performance car buyers, but Kia believes dialing up power and speed is the next logical step for its all-electric EV9.

Debuting at the 2024 Los Angeles auto show, the 2026 Kia EV9 GT applies a similar template to the previous EV6 GT to the larger EV9. That starts with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing 501 hp—122 hp more than the EV9 GT-Line, currently the most powerful EV9 grade. Kia estimates that this will reduce 0-60 mph acceleration from 5.0 seconds for the GT-Line to 4.3 seconds for the GT.

Kia also gave the EV9 GT virtual shifting, which provides the feel of running up through gears this EV does not have (or need), and will even slow acceleration once an artificial “rev limit” is achieved, just like in a combustion car. The artificial gear shifts are accompanied by their own soundtrack. Similar features debuted in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N from Kia’s parent brand—but in a more track-focused package.

GT models also receive Continental performance tires, upgraded brakes, an electronic limited-slip differential, and adaptive suspension. Normal, Eco, Sport, and My Drive modes change the damping, as well as steering and brake feel, as does a GT mode that automatically dials in the stiffest damping. Kia notes that the 7.8 inches of ground clearance and 5,000-pound towing capacity of other EV9 models carries over.

Exterior differences between the GT and other EV9 models are subtle, mostly limited to new 21-inch wheels and green brake calipers, the latter a styling trait shared with the EV6 GT. The green theme continues inside with select trim elements. GT models also have a different steering wheel and robustly bolstered sport seats with Alcantara inserts, as well as unique schemes for the ambient lighting and the menus of the 12.3-inch touchscreen.

Kia expects to begin U.S. deliveries in the second half of 2025, meaning the EV9 GT will have a standard North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, which will be standard on all EV9 models starting in the first half of the year.

Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but expect the GT to come in higher than the current range-topping GT-Line, which is priced at $75,225 for the 2025 model year with the $1,325 destination charge factored in. The EV9 sees a modest $700 price increase for 2025, with no other significant changes to the vehicle that we named Green Car Reports Best Car To Buy 2024.

All EV9 GT models will be assembled in South Korea, meaning they won’t qualify for the $3,750 federal tax credit available for EV9 models assembled in Georgia, either at Kia’s West Point factory or Hyundai’s new Metaplant. It’s another indication that, as a recent report suggested, Kia is becoming less committed to U.S. assembly of the EV9 in the face of tougher tax-credit rules.