2024 KIA EV9 ONE YEAR REVIEW – THE GOOD & THE BAD

EV Channels Review

After one year and 13,000 miles, the 2024 Kia EV9 is presented as a capable, albeit flawed, family hauler. The reviewer praises its exceptional winter driving performance in RWD, its impressive range (achieving over 300 miles on a single charge in ideal conditions), and its spacious interior, particularly the six-seater captain's chair configuration. The charging speed is also highlighted as a positive, exceeding that of a previous Tesla. However, significant drawbacks are noted: a concerning rear-end instability over bumps, poor factory alignment leading to rapid tire wear, and an unergonomic driving position for taller drivers. The driver assistance system (HDA2) is criticized for its unreliability, and the phone-as-key implementation is deemed frustratingly inconsistent. A major concern is the persistent ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit) issue, which, despite software updates, continues to affect even newer models, casting doubt on long-term reliability and prompting advice to consider leasing. Despite these issues, the reviewer expresses overall satisfaction due to its family utility and range, but acknowledges the potential for significant repair costs and downtime.