After 6,200 miles of school runs, Costco hauls, and two interstate road trips, here’s how the 2024 Kia EV9 Wind AWD has performed as our primary family hauler in mixed Midwest weather and charging conditions.
Our test vehicle is a 2024 EV9 Wind AWD on 19-inch wheels, rated at 379 hp and 443 lb-ft from a dual-motor setup fed by a 99.8 kWh battery. Kia’s 800-volt E-GMP platform supports high-speed DC charging, and the AWD trims are tow-rated up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. Curb weight nudges 5,800 lb, but the EV9 promises big-SUV space with EV smoothness. Over six months, we logged city/suburban commutes and two 900-mile round trips, seeing temps from 25°F to 95°F.
Tires are factory all-seasons kept at 42 psi cold. Software updates were applied over-the-air twice during the test, including one that improved DC fast-charge preconditioning via the built-in navigation. Performance is quietly brisk rather than theatrical. Our GPS-based 0–60 mph runs averaged 5.8 seconds in mild weather.
The throttle is cleanly mapped, and i-Pedal one-pedal driving works intuitively in traffic; max regen will bring the car to a smooth stop with practice. Ride quality on the 19s is controlled and calm, with good secondary ride over broken concrete; the sheer mass still reveals itself on big dips, but body motions settle quickly. Steering is light but precise, and brake blending between regen and friction is among the better in class—confidence-inspiring on long descents. Efficiency and range have been predictable.
In 70–85°F weather, we averaged 2.5–2.7 mi/kWh around town and 2.3 mi/kWh at a steady 70 mph, translating to 230–280 miles depending on mix. In 25–40°F conditions (preconditioned and with cabin at 70°F), those figures fell to 2.0–2.2 mi/kWh and about 190–220 highway miles. On Electrify America 350 kW sites, best observed charging was 12%–80% in 25 minutes, peaking near 230 kW when the pack was properly preconditioned; cold-soaked sessions were slower by 5–10 minutes. Family usability is where the EV9 shines.
The second-row bench slides generously, and two child seats plus a booster fit without drama; the third row is adult-capable for short trips, ideal for kids otherwise. With row three up, a week’s groceries fit; with it folded, luggage for five slots easily under the cargo cover. There’s a small frunk for cables. Towing a 1,800 lb utility trailer dropped efficiency roughly 35–40% at 65 mph but stability remained excellent.
Highway Driving Assist 2 kept centered confidently and handled gentle curves well, though lane changes are smoother when initiated by the driver. Infotainment is responsive; my Wind requires USB for CarPlay/Android Auto (no wireless), and the slim climate display works once learned, though the capacitive shortcuts can be mis-tapped on the move. Costs and upkeep have been minimal so far: home Level 2 at 48A replenishes ~10–11 kW, adding ~30–35 miles of range per hour and fully recharging overnight; our off-peak rate of $0.12/kWh yields roughly 4–6 cents per mile in fair weather. Tire wear looks even after two rotations; no brake service needed.
One early quirk—occasional app wake-up delays—was resolved via OTA. Warranty coverage (10-year/100,000-mile for the electric components, 5-year/60,000-mile basic) helps peace of mind. Overall, the EV9 Wind AWD is a thoroughly practical three-row EV with real 200+ mile highway legs, quick charging when preconditioned, and a calm ride that makes big miles easy. If you road-trip often, stick with the 19-inch wheels and learn the charger map for the best experience; if you prioritize performance flair, the GT-Line adds punch at the expense of range and ride.
For families ready to go electric without giving up space or capability, it’s one of the most complete options available today.
