- EV9 took top honors as “Top Pick: 3-Row Electric SUV”
- Second consecutive year EV9 has been recognized
The all-electric 2026 Kia EV9 has been named to Cars.com Top EV Picks of 2026, taking the win as the “Top Pick: 3-Row Electric SUV” for the second year in a row. Selected from a highly competitive lineup of three-row electric SUV’s, the 2026 Kia EV9 was praised by Cars.com editors for raising the standard among three-row EV SUVs.
“It’s an honor to have Cars.com experts recognize the 2026 EV9 as the leading three-row electric SUV for the second straight year,” said Eric Watson, Vice President of Sales Operations, Kia America. “This recognition illuminates the EV9’s leadership in the segment and the exceptional value it delivers to consumers as a fully electric vehicle.”
When selecting a winner, Cars.com editors evaluate user features, user-friendliness, driving enjoyment, utility, charging capabilities, and more, all of which reflect the qualities most important to today’s shoppers. Cars.com judges praised the 2026 EV9’s capabilities, features and affordability as leading factors for winning.
“The EV9 is not just a great EV — it’s a great three-row SUV, period,” said Aaron Bragman, Detroit Bureau Chief for Cars.com. “It has real third-row usability, plenty of cargo space and competitive range, which checks all of the family boxes. Add in quick charging capability, and access to Tesla’s network, and it’s an incredibly well-rounded package. That’s why it earned Cars.com’s Top Pick: 3-Row EV.”
The EV9 continues to be a compelling choice with its spacious three-row cabin, towing capability[1], and a slew of Kia’s latest in-vehicle technology including vehicle system over-the-air updates[2] and ultra-wideband-based Digital Key[3]. Powered by a standard 76.1-kWh battery paired with a 160-kW (215-hp) motor, the EV9 features DC fast-charging compatibility. Optional upgrades include a 99.8-kWh battery in a single-motor configuration or a dual-motor setup that delivers 283 kW (379hp) with torque vectoring all-wheel drive, generating 516 lb.-ft of torque. When connected to a 350kW DC fast charger, the EV9 can charge from 10 to 80 percent state of charge in under 25 minutes[4].
[1] Towing may significantly reduce electric range and requires additional equipment. See Owner’s Manual for towing instructions. Always use caution while towing.
[2] Purchase/lease of certain Kia vehicles with Kia Connect includes a complimentary 3-year subscription starting from new vehicle retail sale/lease date as recorded by the dealer. After your complimentary 3-year Kia Connect subscription expires, continued access to the full suite of Kia Connect services available on your Kia will require a paid subscription at the then-current subscription rate or your use of certain Kia Connect features may immediately terminate. Use of Kia Connect is subject to agreement to the Kia Connect Privacy Policy (available at owners.kia.com/us/en/privacy-policy.html) and Terms of Service (available at owners.kia.com/us/en/terms-of-service.html). Complimentary Kia Connect subscription is transferable to subsequent owner during the original Kia Connect service term. Only use Kia Connect when safe to do so. Kia Connect may currently be unavailable for 2024 or newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts; please see the Kia Owner's Portal for updates on availability. Kia Access with Kia Connect app is available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Kia America, Inc. reserves the right to change or discontinue Kia Connect at any time without prior notification or incurring any future obligation. Message and data rates may apply. Cellular and GPS coverage is required to use most features. Kia Connect features may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. For more on details and limitations, visit www.kia.com or your authorized Kia dealer. Apple and App Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Google and its related trademarks are trademarks of Google LLC or its affiliates.
[3] Kia Digital Key requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. Normal cellular service rates may apply when using a smart device.
[4] Charge time based on Kia Corporation testing with 350 kW DC fast charger and approximately 72 degrees Fahrenheit battery temperature. Actual charge time may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature, and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. Frequent use of DC fast charging can negatively impact battery performance and durability, and Kia recommends minimizing use of DC fast charging.
