Kia’s 3-row family hauler has been widely lauded for its compelling combination of space, cutting-edge platform, price, and original, distinctive design. The consensus has merit. Only a few EVs on the market today offer 3 rows and aside from the diminutive Mercedes EQB, they’re all far more expensive than the EV9. And there’s no denying Kia’s brave, bold design. But is it really as good-looking as it’s champions declare?
I’ve now seen several of these on the road, and there is no denying the EV9 is striking. The design is distinctive and the light signatures are very cool. The proportions are balanced, the body sculpting and big wheels are muscular. But there’s something about certain design details that leave me cold. The main issue is the fender blisters. The sharp creases that descend from the belt line to the inner corner of the bulges are awkward and sort of weird. The main lip around the plastic trim is very neat, but the octagonal shape of the wheel openings is cartoonish. And the long, straight line of the floating roof exaggerate the visual length of the already-long cabin.
In the end, I remain a fan of the vehicle and am happy to see it on the road. As a product, it is certainly compelling, with ample technical and mechanical excellence. The design is cool and distinctive but falls short of being truly beautiful. I believe that’s a missed opportunity. Kia’s design studios are brimming with world-class talent and it is evident they are aiming to be an industry trendsetter. But I can’t help but feel that the EV9, while good, could have been great. And that’s a bummer.
