The Kia brand has made a significant splash at the 2024 LA Auto Show by revealing the most potent version yet of its acclaimed EV9 all-electric SUV. This new addition to the lineup is set to redefine the driving experience for enthusiasts and families alike. With its advanced features and enhanced performance, the Kia EV9 GT is poised to make a lasting impact in the electric vehicle market.

Unleash the Power of the Kia EV9 GT

Enhanced Power and Performance

The Kia EV9 GT takes performance to new heights with its more powerful twin electric motors. One motor is located on the front axle, and the other on the rear, boosting power from 378bhp in the GT-Line S model to an impressive 494bhp. This significant increase in power allows for a more exhilarating driving experience, whether on the open road or during spirited maneuvers.Electronically controlled suspension is a game-changer for the EV9 GT. It automatically adjusts based on the selected drive mode, providing a seamless and tailored driving experience. Additionally, the mode settings also modify the steering and brake feel, enhancing overall control and responsiveness.

Virtual Gear Shifts and Active Sound Design

The Kia EV9 GT features virtual gear shifts (VSG) that mimic the sensation of a traditional automatic gearbox. This adds an extra layer of engagement and excitement during acceleration. Paddles behind the steering wheel allow drivers to manually "shift" through the gears, further enhancing the driving experience.An in-cabin electric "active sound design" (e-ASD) works in tandem with VGS to mimic the sounds of gear shifts as the vehicle accelerates. This not only enhances the driving experience but also gives the driver a more immersive connection with the vehicle.

Advanced Handling and Stability

The Kia EV9 GT is equipped with an electronic limited slip differential (e-LSD), similar to the EV6 GT. This technology improves cornering stability by limiting wheelspin to the tires with less grip and redirecting torque to the tires with more traction. It allows for more confident and precise handling, even at high speeds.

Exterior and Interior Upgrades

Externally, the GT model stands out with its exclusive 21-inch alloys, green brake calipers, a new lighting pattern, and GT-exclusive patterns on the active air flaps. These details give the vehicle a sporty and distinctive look.Inside, the changes are more extensive. New sports seats trimmed with alcantara provide enhanced comfort and support during driving. Bright green accents adorn the car, including on the steering wheel and seats, adding a touch of sportiness. The 12.3-inch digital driver display features GT-exclusive graphics, and a unique ambient lighting scheme creates a more immersive interior environment.Like other EV9 models, the GT is based on the E-GMP platform, which offers 800V fast charging. This allows the car to charge from 10-80 percent in less than 25 minutes using DC fast chargers. While the maximum claimed range of the GT model is yet to be announced, it is expected to be slightly less than the current 349 maximum range.First UK deliveries of the Kia EV9 GT are expected in 2025, with prices expected to be around the £80,000 mark. This makes it a premium option for those seeking the ultimate electric SUV experience.

When Kia previewed these updates to the Sportage in Korea, it set the stage for a significant transformation. Now, we're about to see what this version will bring to the U.S. market. The 2023 model year already made a bold statement with its controversial styling, but Kia isn't done yet.

Unveiling the 2026 Kia Sportage - A Stylish and Tech-Savvy SUV

Front End Redesign

The most profound change to the 2026 Kia Sportage's look is the entire front clip. New vertical headlights and LED daytime running lights integrate more seamlessly into the upright design. The black trim along the top of the grille creates a cohesive unit, replacing the previous split between the headlights and the body-colored trim. This gives the front end a more unified and modern appearance.The taillights maintain the same overall shape but receive a slightly different design. The rear bumper also gets a minor update, adding to the overall refreshed look.

Wheel Designs and Interior Upgrades

Between the front and rear ends, the 2026 Sportage looks mostly the same, given its relatively fresh start. However, it now offers new 17-, 18-, and 19-inch wheel designs, depending on the model.Inside the cabin, the 2026 Kia Sportage gets a new two-spoke steering wheel. It also comes with a standard 12.3-inch curved infotainment display and a digital gauge cluster. An optional 10-inch head-up display adds driver assistance and navigation functions to the driver's line of sight. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and you can get Digital Key as an option.New S Hybrid and X-Line Hybrid trims have been added to the lineup. The S Hybrid features 18-inch wheels, front and rear USB-C charging ports, wireless phone mirroring, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat with black trim elements. The X-Line Hybrid comes with standard wireless charging, 19-inch black wheels, LED fog lights, and a panoramic sunroof.

Enhanced Driver Assistance Technology

Like Kia's other recent revamps, the 2026 Sportage gets more in the way of driver assistance technology. The highway driving assist system can assist with lane changes and maintain a safe distance and speed from the car in front. The automatic emergency braking system has expanded capability to better detect pedestrians and cyclists. There's also a new hands-on detection system to warn the driver if they don't have their hands on the wheel.

Powertrain Options

Under the hood, powertrains from the previous-year Sportage lineup carry over. The base unit is a 2.5-liter, 187-horsepower gas engine that sends 187 horsepower to the front wheels or all four through an 8-speed automatic transmission, with a maximum 3,500-pound towing capacity.The Sportage Hybrid still features a revised 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and a 47.7-kW electric motor, now putting out 231 horsepower, 4 more than before. It's available with front- or all-wheel drive, but towing capacity drops to 2,000 pounds.The Sportage Plug-in Hybrid also sticks around and gets a slight power bump, now putting out 268 horsepower. It comes with standard all-wheel drive capability and can tow up to 2,000 pounds.The X-Line and X-Pro trims, using the standard gas engine, are still part of the 2026 Sportage lineup. This time, a new Terrain Mode has been added for snow, mud, and sand surfaces. The rest of the trim options for the gas models remain unchanged.

Pricing and Availability

Kia says the updated Sportage will hit dealers in the second quarter of 2025. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but it's expected to be similar to the current models. The gas model's base price of $28,565 may increase by a few hundred dollars. The Sportage Hybrid currently starts at $29,965, and the PHEV comes in at $41,065, and these prices may also go up slightly.