The last time we drove the Kia EV9 was at the international launch late last year, where the only model available for review was the range-topping GT-Line S, costing over £75,000. We were told then that UK customer demand would be focussed on the range-topper, and an interview with the UK president and CEO, Paul Philpott (see P32), bears that out. 

So, what about the EV9 Air? Well, after driving the entry-level version of their biggest SUV, we think it should be getting more attention! Firstly, let’s start with the price, which still starts at a chunky £64,245 – although a lot less than before. There is less standard kit, obviously – but not noticeably so. Outside, the wheels are still alloy, but are more modest in size, at 19in as standard. Inside, you still get the joint 12.3in driver display and 12.3in touchscreen perched on the top in front of the driver, a 360-degree surround view camera, keyless go, wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, and heated and ventilated seats for the front two rows.   

On top of the impressive standard kit, just like the GT-Line S, the Air’s interior impresses with how spacious it is. Like the exterior, the interior of this Kia, dazzles – even if it’s just for the space! Seven seats are standard, with plenty of room for five adults over the first two rows of seats – the driving position is very comfortable. The third row is almost as impressive, but there’s less legroom, so probably best for smaller adults, older or young children. There is even an extra frunk at the front, as with no front motor there’s an extra 90 litres of stowage.

The only real giveaway that you’re driving the Air are the previously mentioned wheels, and the 19s still look at home. The EV9 looks like no other Kia, or any other car for that matter. This is a good thing and the latest example of its ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. It still amazes how square the overall design is, with some cleverly curved edges, that help the EV9 slip surprisingly silently through the air considering. Design highlights start at the front with the distinctive vertical and horizontal driving lights, which are part of the large LED headlight units. The sharp metal detailing around the arches and again the vertical rear light clusters, follow the line of the rear arch. The EV9 shares its Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which also underpins the previously mentioned, excellent EV6. The Air is only available with rear-wheel drive, whereas the range-topping GT-Line is available to purchase with four-wheel drive and six or seven-seater versions.

The rear-wheel drive Air version has a 150kW motor, with 350Nm of torque, 215hp and 0-62mph acceleration in 9.4 seconds. Top speed is 115mph, for the Air, and despite this performance, the rear-wheel drive has a 359-mile range. When it comes to charging, all EV9s can be fast charged, going from 10-80% in just 24 minutes.

The first difference you notice when you compare the Air to the GT-Line on the road is the ride. Where the GT-Line can feel a bit harsh in places, especially around town, the Air is more comfortable and composed. We believe this is mostly down to the smaller wheels and tyres, but also due to the lack of weight – with no motor on the front axle. The Air might be slower to accelerate, but 215hp still feels enough when up to speed, although the lack of the extra motor means there’s less grip and confidence. There is also the security of a full set of driver assistance features, although these are still as annoying, and you find yourself tapping the touchscreen to turn them off!

The range-topper might be getting all the business from conquest buyers, but if you can’t stretch to that, we think the Air is the better EV9. 

Kia EV9 Air 99.8kWh Seven Seats

P11D: £64,970

Residual value: 50%

Depreciation: £32,420

Fuel: £4,693

Service, maintenance and repair: £2,299

Cost per mile: 65.68p

Range: 359 miles

CO2 (BIK %): 0g/km (2%)

BIK 20/40% a month: £21/£43

Luggage capacity: 571 litres

Battery size/power: 99.8kWh/215hp