Not content to have its thunder stolen by sister brand Hyundai and its Ioniq 9, Kia has revealed its hottest EV9 yet. The 2026 Kia EV9 GT is a new flagship variant for the large three-row electric SUV lineup, packing various mechanical and aesthetic upgrades. The South Korean-built SUV has been confirmed for an Australian launch, which CarExpert understands will take place in the second half of 2025.
100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now .
While there’s extra power on tap, Kia has also given the EV9 GT electronically controlled suspension – a first for a three-row SUV from the brand. CarExpert understands that, as with other models like the EV6 GT , this new flagship will get an Australian ride and handling tune. Switching between drive modes adjusts the damping, steering and brake feel, while a bright green GT button on the steering wheel toggles the stiffest setting for the dampers.
Additionally, the EV9 GT is the latest EV from the Hyundai Motor Group to get Virtual Gear Shift. This simulates an automatic transmission in a combustion-powered vehicle, with artificial “shifts” that can also be toggled between using paddle shifters. The EV9 GT’s electric Active Sound Design (e-ASD) also replicates the sounds of gear shifts as the EV9 GT accelerates.
Kia says it has also fitted the EV9 GT with upgraded brakes, plus an electronic limited-slip differential to help improve corneri.