KIA EV9 VS. RIVIAN R1S: WHICH IS THE BETTER 3-ROW ELECTRIC SUV?

EV Channels Review

The Edmunds comparison pits the Kia EV9 against the refreshed 2025 Rivian R1S, highlighting their distinct approaches to the three-row electric SUV segment. While both vehicles are praised, the EV9 emerges as the overall winner with a higher Edmonds rating (8.6 vs. 8.4). The EV9 is lauded for its superior interior comfort, user-friendly technology with smartphone connectivity, and better value proposition across its lineup. Its ride quality is noted as more comfortable and refined than the R1S, even after the Rivian's suspension improvements. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the EV9's comfortable headrests and its quiet cabin, making it ideal for long road trips and daily driving. The R1S, however, excels in performance, offering significantly more acceleration and range, and is the clear choice for off-roading enthusiasts due to its adjustable air suspension and higher ground clearance. Despite its strengths, the R1S is criticized for its less intuitive climate controls, lack of standard smartphone integration (Android Auto/Apple CarPlay), and a subscription-based model for certain features, which detracts from its overall value compared to the Kia.