And much like the Hyundai Ioniq 5N from Kia’s sister company, the EV9 GT will feature virtual gear shifting that simulates the feel of a traditional step-shift automatic transmission — complete with fake engine noises. This provides noticeable “shifts” as the EV9 accelerates and can reduce acceleration when the rev limit is reached.

Kia's electric EV9 SUV sports a new GT version while the EV6 and Sportage SUV add updates for upcoming model years.

Every 2025 Kia EV9 model is based on the brand’s E-GMP platform, which also underpins the likes of the EV6 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Ioniq 6 models. The parent company's past work on sporty EVs has helped to inform this latest product, which seems to combine fan-favorite elements from both Hyundai and Kia EVs.

Kia announced the 2026 Kia EV9 GT at the LA Auto Show, and it’s giving its electric three-row SUV some serious muscle. Here is everything we know.

Kia has expanded its EV9 line-up with the introduction of a new range-topping GT model.Following a similar theme to other electric models within the Korean firm’s range, the new EV9 GT brings a host of performance-focused revisions while retaining the standard car’s seven-seater practicality.

The facelifted Kia EV6 GT has been launched in Korea ahead of its US market launch in H1 2025. The performance flagship of the EV6 lineup looks very similar to the milder GT-Line trim. The GT gains a stronger powertrain with up to 645 hp,