By Michael Strong
They both have good range, but the price difference could be the deciding factor
For so long, if you wanted an electric vehicle, you checked out Tesla (TSLA) and either Chevrolet or Nissan (NSANY). Now, that's all changed, as a slew of new battery-electric models from almost every brand are spread out across dealer lots. The 2024 Kia EV9 and 2024 Rivian R1S are two of the more recent introductions. These two midsize SUVs carry up to seven passengers and offer plenty of range, but they are designed to do different things.
Let's get a look at these two all-electric 3-row SUVs.
The 2024 Kia EV9
The 2024 Kia EV9 is one of the newest options in electric 3-row SUVs. Inspired by the Kia (KR:000270) Telluride, its gas-powered sibling, the EV9 features a boxy, contemporary shape. This is a premium look from a mainstream brand.
This look and feel carries over to the inside of the EV9, unlike the spare, simple look of some other electric vehicle cabins. The fit-and-finish is first class, while the seating in all three rows is remarkably comfortable.
Plus: Just one of these World Car of the Year finalists is American-made
The EV9 offers a variety of powertrains, with the base model, dubbed Light, being a 215-horsepower single-motor setup. It'll take 7.7 seconds to get to 60 mph in that configuration. However, if you move up two levels to the Wind trim, you enjoy a dual motor package that pushes the ponies up to 379 hp. The top-end GT-Line also puts out 379 hp, but the torque is higher at 516 lb-ft. Max range is up to 304 miles. Prices start at $56,395, including destination charge.
Kia EV9 highlights
Really fast charging: Using a DC fast charger, you can add 149 miles of range in about 15 minutes. The 800-volt system enables the battery to go from 10% to 80% charged in less than 25 minutes, which is as good as it currently gets.
Tech forward: Two 12.3-inch high-resolution displays serve as the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. This enhances the tech-rich feel of the EV9's cabin while keeping buttons to a minimum.
Reverse charging: The EV9 offers V2L or vehicle-to-load. It allows the vehicle to provide electricity for other items, like sound or light appliances at a party, or if you watched a certain sentimental commercial after the big game, lights for an outdoor skating rink. The output is in the cargo area.
Learn more: The new 2024 Kia EV9: Here's a more affordable electric option for big families
The 2024 Rivian R1S
Initially considered a competitor for Tesla, Rivian's (RIVN) R1S all-electric SUV is now finally tangling with the Model X and several other EVs, including the aforementioned Kia EV9.
Don't miss: The cars that are most American-made: Tesla tops list again
In many ways, what you see is what you get with the R1S. It looks very much like a conventional 3-row SUV, except for the front fascia and its oval, vertically oriented headlights. That distinctive look is likely part of the appeal of the R1S. On the inside, the R1S is to be lauded for its superior craftsmanship as well as its sensible placement and use of technology.
The R1S doesn't come to play - or perhaps it does? It begins with a 533-hp dual motor setup that allows you to handle almost any situation on or off-road. You can get out of trouble quickly, racing to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. If you move up to the Quad Motor model, that 0-60 mph time drops to just 3 seconds. The R1S has an air suspension with adaptive shock absorbers and an electro-hydraulic roll control system that does away with traditional anti-roll bars. Max range is up to 400 miles. Prices start at $76,700, including destination charge.
Rivian R1S highlights
Driving modes: Rivian's All-Purpose driving mode, which drivers will use most of the time, self-adjusts the suspension to suit driving conditions, including lowering the ride height to improve freeway aerodynamics. Also, if you're concerned about having enough juice to get to a charger, the Conserve mode engages just the front-wheel drive and lowers the ride height.
Off-roader: If you're looking to head off-roading, the R1S features plenty of underbody production to protect the battery and everything else under the vehicle. It's a more capable off-roader than the Kia EV9 - especially if you opt for the quad-motor version.
Camping: The R1S can make an excellent campsite with its 3-person roof tent and Camp mode, which levels the SUV's suspension so you can sleep on top without fear of being off-balance.
Learn more: The Rivian R1S is a rare combination of a large electric SUV with off-road chops and a luxury cabin
Similarities
Alphanumerics aside, the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S feature boxy, simple-looking exteriors. Max range is good to great, depending on the version of each model. When you upgrade to a loaded Kia EV9, the price becomes similar to a Rivian R1S.
Be sure to read: The 'EV penalty': Electric car owners are paying more taxes and fees in 35 states, study finds
Conclusion
To be clear, if you want the Rivian R1S, you'll pay a lot more for it than the Kia EV9 - about $20,000 more to get in the door. The highest-priced EV9 gets close to the entry-level R1S. However, if you want your all-electric SUV to handle day-to-day errands as well as climbing the side of a mountain while having access to its own growing network of EV chargers at trailheads and other out-of-the-way locations, you might want to write the bigger check. Otherwise, the Kia EV9 will handle everything you need a 3-row, 7-passenger SUV EV to do.
Cox Automotive, parent company of Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader, is a minority investor in Rivian.
2024 Kia EV9 2024 Rivian R1S Starting price $56,395 $76,700 Popular Powertrains Engine Single electric motor Dual electric motor Horsepower 215 hp @ 9,000 rpm 533 hp Torque 258 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm 610 lb-ft Transmission 1-speed direct drive/RWD 1-speed direct drive/AWD Fuel Economy 99 MPGe city/77 MPGe hwy/88 MPGe combined 65 MPGe city/60 MPGe hwy/63 MPGe combined Maximum Range 230 miles 270 miles Also Available Dual-motor/AWD Quad-motor Specs Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles 4 years/50,000 miles Battery Warranty 10 years/100,000 miles 8 years/150,000 miles NHTSA Overall Safety N/R N/R Max Seating Capacity 7 7 Wheelbase 122.0 inches 121.1 inches Overall Length 197.2 inches 200.8 inches Width 77.9 inches 81.8 inches Height 68.9 inches 77.3 inches Turning Diameter 40.6 feet N/A Headroom, Front 41.2 inches 41.1 inches Headroom, Rear 39.8 inches 39.7 inches Legroom, Front 41.4 inches 41.4 inches Legroom, Rear 42.8 inches 36.6 inches Shoulder Room, Front 61.6 inches 60.6 inches Shoulder Room, Rear 60.0 inches 58.9 inches Cargo Volume 20.2 cubic feet 17.7 cubic feet
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
-Michael Strong
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04-25-24 0501ET
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