2026 Kia EV9: Kia has introduced the 2026 EV9 specifically for the US, and although it is more of a carryover model year, there are some significant novelties that make this third-row electric SUV even more enticing. The standout addition? A slick new Nightfall Edition that has more can-do attitude, and more substance to match.
Let’s talk numbers first. The range boosts aren’t earth-shattering, but they are welcome all the same. The Light Long Range model is rated for an estimated 490 km on a single charge—just a small boost over last year. Range increases for the Wind and Land grades, to approximately 450 km and the GT Line enjoys the biggest gain – up 16 km to 451 km. It’s not groundbreaking, but every kilometre adds up in the EV world.
2026 Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition Specs and Features
The true headliner of this update is the Nightfall Edition, built on the Land trim. It’s Kia’s response to those who wish their family hauler to have a more aggressive appearance. The package adds 20-inch gloss black wheels, black badging, gloss black trim pieces, and yes, even blacked-out mirrors and roof rails. There is also an exclusive Roadrider Brown paint option, although Kia has been somewhat shy about showing it off — most of its images are still of the boggo Glacial Pearl White model.
However, the dull grey and black cabin is now blacked out completely, with new sportier stitch patterns. But, here’s the kicker – the Nightfall Edition comes with Boost mode as standard, which increases the torque 443 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft, resulting in a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, as supreme speed cuts down the 5.7 second mark. That’s normally a $900 upgrade on other trims, so you’re getting some serious performance value here.
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2026 Kia EV9 Trim Levels and Price Cuts
Perhaps most surprising is that Kia has actually LOWERED some trim prices for 2026. The base EV9, however, is still priced from $54,900; the Light Long Range falls to $57,900 from $59,900. The Land trim falls to $68,900 and the GT-Line is now $71,900, down from $73,900. It flies in the face of a market in which prices appear to know no direction but up.
Pricing for the Nightfall Edition falls between Land and GT-Line, presumably for about $1,500 more than a regular Land.
Kia EV9 Specs and Battery Range
Beneath the skin, the 2026 EV9 keeps most of the DNA. It still rides on Kia’s E-GMP platform and offers the same 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh battery pack, with outputs of either 201 hp or 379 hp depending on setup. The 800-volt system still allows for quick charging from 10% to 80% in around 24 minutes.
And all AWD trims have a new Terrain Mode with Snow, Mud, and Sand settings instead of the prior 4WD system. Sure, it’s only a small, practical addition for those who really take the roads less traveled, but every little bit of convenience counts.
Kia EV9 India Launch and What It Means for the Market
For now, these updates are restricted to the US market, but it’s a sign of what we in India might get in the future. Kia has been growing its EV fleet across markets, and the EV9 serves as the flagship electric car in the brand’s lineup. The increased range and more aggressive pricing could make it a more competitive when it eventually lands in markets like ours.
Indian buyers will have to wait to grapple this baby for the time being, but the 2026 EV9’s new bits confirms that Kia is committed to getting its electric SUV game right. The Nightfall Edition, in particular, shows that even your sensible, family vehicles can be a little bit edgy — something the Indian buyer may appreciate as they continue to choose SUVs that make a statement.
The 2026 EV9 won’t be a wholesale overhaul, but these focused changes are evidence that Kia is listening to customer feedback and making the right tweaks where it really counts.