2026 KIA EV9 CROWNED CARS.COM'S 'BEST ELECTRIC VEHICLE OF 2026'

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February 5, 2026 8:08 AM EST

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the 2026 Kia EV9 was named Cars.com's Best Electric Vehicle of 2026, marking the second consecutive year the three-row electric SUV has been awarded with the honor. This recognition builds on the EV9's recent designation as Cars.com's Top 3-Row EV Pick reflecting its leadership in range, charging performance, family friendly design and overall EV excellence.

"Being named Cars.com's Best Electric Vehicle of 2026 for the second consecutive year reinforces what we set out to achieve with the EV9," said Eric Watson, VP of Sales, Kia America. "From its versatile three-row seating to its advanced technology and performance, the EV9 continues to deliver a confident, everyday electric experience that meets the real-world needs of today's EV customers."

Cars.com's automotive experts evaluated a competitive field of new electric vehicles on attributes including driving range, fast-charging performance, interior space, technology and overall ownership value. The EV9 set itself apart due to its combination of spacious three-row seating, advanced technology and long-distance capability, making it the obvious choice for both families and EV enthusiasts.

"The Kia EV9 stood out because it delivers everything we want from a modern electric SUV — strong real-world range, fast charging, excellent space and comfort, and smart flexibility across the lineup," said Mike Hanley, Sr. Road Test Editor, Cars.com. "After extensive testing, it earned unanimous praise from our judges for being exceptionally usable, family-friendly and genuinely well-rounded, which is why it rose to the top and was named Cars.com's Best EV of 2026."

The EV9 continues to be a compelling choice with its spacious three-row cabin, towing capability1, and Kia's latest in-vehicle technology including vehicle system over-the-air updates2 and ultra-wideband-based Digital Key3. 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 minutes4.

Kia America – about us

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several SUVs proudly assembled in America*. 

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert 

* Select trims of the all-electric EV6 and EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts. 


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.

 

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SOURCE Kia America


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