The Kia EV9 GT, the high-performance variant of the Korean automaker’s flagship electric SUV, is now available for order with a starting price of $129,250 (before on-road costs). This makes it the priciest vehicle Kia has ever sold in the Australian market.
Performance and Specifications
The GT variant delivers a significant power upgrade over its siblings, boasting 374kW and 740Nm of torque. This translates to a 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.5 seconds, an improvement of 0.8 seconds over the GT-Line model. Despite the added performance, the GT maintains the same 99.8kWh Long Range battery as other EV9s, offering a slightly improved WLTP range of 510km (5km more than the GT-Line).
Key enhancements include:
– Electronically controlled suspension tuned for Australian roads
– Upgraded brakes for improved stopping power
– An electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced handling
Design and Interior
The EV9 GT stands out visually with a distinctive digital LED grille featuring Kia’s ‘Star Map’ lighting, 21-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, and striking lime green brake calipers. Inside, the GT features standard second-row relaxation seats (replacing the bench in other trims) and Alcantara inserts with matching lime green accents.
Market Context and Competition
The EV9 GT enters a relatively quiet segment of large, three-row electric SUVs. While the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV arrived earlier, the EV9 has largely dominated the market since its launch over a year ago. Competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Volvo EX90 emerged in 2025, with the Cadillac Vistiq slated for release this year.
The EV9 GT’s arrival fills a niche for performance-focused EV buyers seeking a spacious, premium electric SUV. Its price point places it firmly in the luxury segment, but its competitive features and improved range make it a strong contender.
The EV9 GT is expected to hit showrooms shortly, offering a new benchmark for electric SUV performance and luxury in the Australian market.
