Video: What’s the Best EV of 2025?
By Cars.com Editors
February 5, 2025
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Mainstream-brand electric three-row SUVs are a new concept — and this one, the 2025 Kia EV9, is a winner. We named it Cars.com’s Best Electric Vehicle of 2025 for its near-ideal balance of efficiency, fast charging speeds and cabin comfort.
Transcript
Electric SUVs aren't a new concept, but mainstream brand three-row electric SUVs are, and Kia's is a winner. But being a pioneer isn't the only reason for getting this award. The Kia EV9 is Cars.c
om's best electric vehicle of 2025 for its near-ideal balance of range, charging capabilities, comfort, and space. We're no strangers to the EV9's charms; Cars.com editors have had a lot of time to get to know the EV9, after we bought one and added it to our long-term test fleet. As a daily driver for many of our staff, we found its range to be competitive. It's available with a single electric motor driving the rear wheels, or two motors for all-wheel drive. EPA estimated range varies from 230 to 304 miles on a charge, and power starts at a modest 201 horsepower and tops out at 379 horsepower. Shoppers looking for more oomph on Wind and Land trims can opt for an over-the-air boost upgrade that amps torque output to match the high-end GT lines, 516 pounds feet, and it stands out from other EVs with its impressive charging capabilities. All trims use an 800-volt electrical architecture, and most trims can DC fast charge at up to 210 kilowatts, enabling the EV9 to charge from 10% to 80% in just under 25 minutes in ideal conditions. In addition, the EV9 has impressed in many other ways during our ownership, from its pleasant road manners and intuitive controls to its practical cabin layout and roomy, comfortable second and third rows. We've also put it through car seat and cargo tests, and it emerged with flying colors, making it a versatile people and stuff hauler. Value is another strength. Unlike other three-row luxury EVs, the EV9 has an approachable price, starting around $56,000 for a base standard range variant, and around $61,000 for a base long-range trim. What's more, that pricing includes a generous list of standard driver assistance and safety features, including a hands-on semi-autonomous driving system and forward collision warning with pedestrian and bicyclist detection and automatic emergency braking. Overall, the Kia EV9 is a well-rounded electric SUV that won us over with its excellent blend of efficiency, intuitive controls, and fast charging speeds. For all of these reasons and more, we've named the Kia EV9 Cars.com's best electric vehicle of 2025. To learn more about the Kia EV9 and all of Cars.com's best of awards, visit cars.com/awards.
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