The Kia EV9 is set to redefine what it means to be a family-friendly electric SUV. While it already impresses as a versatile three-row vehicle, things are about to get even more exciting with the upcoming 2026 EV9 GT. Designed for those who love a little extra thrill here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, the GT badge is packed with performance upgrades and exclusive features that make it stand out from the crowd.
This powerhouse will come equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, expected to deliver a whopping 501 horsepower—quite the jump from the already impressive 379 horsepower found in the standard dual-motor version. With an estimated 0-to-60 mph time of just 4.3 seconds, it’s shaping up to be one of the quickest in its class, offering exhilarating acceleration bound to leave a smile on your face.
But the EV9 GT isn’t just about speed. It’s loaded with serious performance gear, including adaptive dampers, a limited-slip rear differential, and bold neon-green brake calipers paired with upgraded brakes. The look is just as striking, thanks to a unique illuminated front panel, special bumper accents, and 21-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance Continental tires.
For those who enjoy the thrill of driving, Kia is also introducing a Virtual Gear Shift mode that mimics traditional gear changes—complete with paddle controls—making every drive feel like a spirited adventure. Whether on the school run or heading out for a weekend getaway, the EV9 GT blends cutting-edge performance with the practicality and style you’d expect from Kia’s flagship electric SUV.
The EV9 GT’s interior design has stylish green accents that give the cabin a lively and sporty feel. The front seats are enhanced with extra bolstering, ensuring passengers stay comfortably in place during spirited drives. With sleek microsuede inserts and an embossed GT logo, these seats add a touch of sophistication.
The driver is treated to a revamped steering wheel featuring a neon mark at the 12-o'clock position and a convenient "GT" button for instant access to its most dynamic driving mode. Even the digital gauge cluster has unique graphics that add to the excitement.
While exact battery specs and range figures haven’t been confirmed, there’s speculation the EV9 GT could feature the 110.3-kWh battery seen in the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, promising over 300 miles of range. The current EV9 dual-motor models already boast a 99.8-kWh battery with an EPA estimate of 270 to 280 miles.
Kia has stated that the GT version will be able to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 25 minutes, and by early 2025, all EV9 models will include the NACS charge port as a standard feature. The highly anticipated 2026 Kia EV9 GT is set to launch in the latter half of next year, adding another impressive option to Kia’s lineup of electric vehicles.
This holiday season, tackle family gatherings, unpredictable weather, and the hustle and bustle of the busiest time of year with confidence and style. At Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, the Kia EV9 is ready to impress with its spacious three rows, advanced features, and all-wheel drive capabilities. Whether navigating icy roads, ferrying loved ones to holiday celebrations, or managing last-minute shopping trips, this SUV has the versatility and performance to make your holidays brighter.
Why wait? Visit Jim Butler Kia today and experience the future of electric SUVs with a test drive that showcases how the EV9 can keep up with everything the season throws your way.