Kia EV9 vs Genesis GV70

What's the difference?

Whether you think the EV9 GT is an over-priced mistake or the logical next step for a brand looking to move up in the world will depend on your point-of-view.

Kia has certainly extended the appeal of the EV9 range, but possibly in the wrong direction. Certainly the wrong direction if the goal is to add significantly more sales.

A cheaper alternative to the $97,000 EV9 Air would likely be a more popular choice from the point-of-view of Australian families considering replacing their diesel-powered SUVs with something that doesn’t rely on the chaotic fuel market. 

But that’s not really who the EV9 GT will appeal to. Instead, from the point-of-view of someone looking at a more expensive European option, whether it be an Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW iX or something else, the EV9 GT may be appealing in a very different way - assuming that they aren't driven by what badge is on the front.

Kia has certainly evolved beyond its ‘cheap and cheerful’ image or buying primarily for its long warranty. These days Kia is a mainstream brand, but whether it has enhanced its reputation enough to attract buyers willing to spend more than $130,000 will be decided in the showroom.

The updated Genesis GV70 Electrified Signature Performance is packed with features, effortless on the road, and backed by fantastic ownership value. This isn’t just polished luxury, it’s smart luxury, making it a vehicle worth serious consideration. The only caveat? I’d opt for a different interior colour to white if you have kids or pets.

Surprisingly, given the price premium and flagship nature of the GT, there isn’t a lot to separate it from the slightly less expensive GT-Line.

It’s only when you look closer you notice subtle touches, like the ‘digital grille’, an illuminated section of the front of the car that extends the lighting signature when you start the car. The other obvious difference is the unique and huge set of 21-inch alloy wheels at each corner. The black design is offset by bright green brake calipers, which is a unique colour for the GT.

This signature fluro green colour is also on the seat trim, including contrasting stitching, as well as the GT badge on the (three-spoke) steering wheel that engages the most potent version of the electric motors.

Although slightly smaller than some rivals at 4715mm long and 1630mm tall, the GV70 comfortably fills out its medium SUV stature with a pronounced nose, wide stance, and pillowed, swoopy rear end. The update adds an exclusive reverse G-Matrix pattern in the grille, new 20-inch alloys, and a rear aerodynamic spoiler for a more distinctive presence.

Inside, there are three interior colours to choose from. Our test model’s white leather looks stunning but isn’t the most practical choice for families, pets, or anyone frequently navigating unpaved roads. A rainy day could make you anxious! The quilted leather upholstery shines visually, complemented by the new ‘Milky Way’ ambient lighting panels in the doors.

The electrified platform gives the cabin a flat floor, which improves legroom for middle-seat passengers, though it does mean there’s no space for a spare tyre in the boot.

Other notable updates include intelligent Matrix LED headlights, smart key sensors on all door handles, and new paint options. I particularly like the hidden charging port cover integrated into the grille; a subtle, clever touch. Overall, the GV70 is a handsome SUV.

In terms of practicality, space and usability, the EV9 GT does a lot to justify its price tag, with a cabin the equal of anything the luxury brands offer, at least in terms of the level of equipment available.

The sporty seats have adjustable side bolsters to either hug you tight for dynamic driving or open up and let you get comfortable for relaxed commutes. The front seats are heated and ventilated and also include a two-way power adjustable leg rest, for even greater support.

Those in the second row are treated to two 'captains' chairs with heating and ventilation as well, plus a massage function and the leg rest, which creates a ‘business class’ vibe for the lucky passengers.

The second-row occupants also get sun blinds (albeit manual), separate air-conditioning controls and access to USB-C charging ports in the backs of the front seats.

Accommodation in the third row is a little tight, but if the second row compromises legroom slightly you’re able to fit six occupants in relative comfort.

Those in the front get their own sunroof but there’s a second, larger sunroof to bring light into the passenger section.

In terms of the multimedia system, it’s run through the twin 12.3-inch digital screens, which are housed in a single panel to create the impression it is one large display. This is the usual Kia system, which is very easy to navigate and has both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, if you prefer. 

As a major plus, there are physical buttons for the climate control and a power/volume scroll wheel for the sound system. There’s also an on/off button for the car, which is a small feature but another welcome, user-friendly touch.

As for the boot, well, with all six seats in use there’s only 333 litres of space, which isn’t massive, but that’s why Kia sells the Carnival. For an SUV with seven occupants, 333L is alright.

If you only need five seats you can liberate a more generous 828L, which is really good. It’s a nice, roomy and open cargo space.

If you really need to carry a lot of stuff and not many people, you have 2393L with the second and third row seats stowed.

On top of this, there’s a small 52L frunk, which isn’t very big but it’s a good spot to stash the charging cable. Which oddly is not where Kia actually stores it, instead there is a small bag/box which is just velcroed to the boot floor.

Given the EV9 is a purpose-built electric vehicle, why is the charging cable not stored in a more integrated manner? It’s only a small detail, and Kia isn’t alone in doing this, but I still find it odd that carmakers haven’t found a better way to deal with the EV cable yet, especially when the frunk makes so much sense as a permanent storage spot.

The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance feels spacious and comfortable front to back. Up front, the seats are thickly padded and packed with features, making it easy to find a good driving position. The electrically adjustable steering wheel adds to the ease, and the 172mm ground clearance with wide door openings makes getting in and out effortless.

Storage up front is a bit limited. The middle console and glove box handle most of the load, while door drink holders are slim. I do like the dedicated phone tray and sunglasses holder, which add some practicality to everyday use.

The 27-inch multimedia and instrument cluster display is sharp, high-tech and intuitive, while the responsive touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto make connectivity easy. The system includes built-in sat-nav, and you can customise it to fill the full screen while keeping a small speedo widget visible.

Charging is well-covered with two USB-C ports per row, a wireless charging pad, a 12-volt socket and a 250-volt domestic plug in the boot. Small practical touches like extendable sunvisors, manual rear sunblinds, smart key sensors on each door and the ability to move the front passenger seat or operate the boot from the driver’s seat add extra convenience.

In the rear, legroom is good and while I’m comfortable behind my driving position at 168cm, taller passengers may need to shuffle seats to optimise comfort. Seat cushioning is excellent, and the outboard seat heaters are a welcome touch. The bench is wide enough for three adults for short trips, and families will appreciate the two ISOFIX child seat mounts and three top-tether anchor points. Amenities include climate control, rear air vents, sunblinds and charging ports, although storage is limited to a couple of cupholders and map pockets. The pull-down armrest sits a little low for me, but my kid has no concerns.

Boot space measures 503L with all seats in place, the smallest compared with nearest rivals. That said, it easily accommodates my family of three’s groceries and school gear. There’s a small underfloor pocket for the tyre repair kit and home cables, plus a 22L frunk for extra storage. The powered boot lid is a practical convenience I always appreciate.

The updated Genesis GV70 Electrified Signature Performance comes in a single, well-equipped grade, priced from $132,800 before on-road costs. That puts it between two of its closest electric rivals - the Audi Q6 quattro e-tron at $122,500 and the Porsche Macan 4 from $134,400. Our test car also includes features that would typically cost extra on other brands, adding extra value.

The update brings significant tech upgrades, including wireless phone mirroring, a 27-inch OLED multimedia display, a new operating system with over-the-air software and firmware updates, a colour head-up display, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio and a UV-C sanitiser for the middle console (the last one a little gimmicky for me).

The other technology is well-rounded with the addition of key sensors on all doors as well as keyless start, remote parking aid (via keyfob), three customisable driver profiles accessed via fingerprint, satellite navigation, a digital rear-view mirror and tri-zone climate control.

Inside, the Signature Performance feels distinctly premium. It features quilted Nappa leather upholstery, leather trims, a suede headliner, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. The front seats are electric, heated, ventilated and have massage and memory functions, while the rear outboard seats and electric steering wheel are also heated.

Put simply, there’s a lot included as standard.

What’s under the bonnet, well technically underneath the front and back of the SUV, is what really separates the GT from the rest of the EV9 range.

The GT gets more powerful motors, boosting performance to 374kW of power and 740Nm of torque, which is a 92kW and 40Nm upgrade over the EV9 GT-Line.

Kia claims the GT can sprint 0-100km/h in just 4.5 seconds, nearly a full second faster than the GT-Line, and will keep going all the way to 220km/h. That’s really fast for such a big SUV, some might even say unnecessarily fast for a family-focused SUV, but given the asking price, adding extra performance is a logical move.

The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance is a fully electric SUV with dual motors, one on each axle, producing a combined 320kW of power and 605Nm of torque. Activate Boost Mode, and those numbers climb to 360kW and 700Nm, giving the GV70 a serious edge when you need it.

Despite its name, this grade isn't pitched as a performance EV but it's definitely no slouch with a 0 -100km/h sprint time of just 4.4 seconds with Boost Mode, or 5.0 seconds in standard mode. That’s quick enough to hold its own against rivals in the luxury electric mid-size SUV segment, while still delivering smooth, linear acceleration that’s effortless in everyday driving.

The GT gets the same 99.8kWh battery as the GT-Line, but Kia claims the new flagship has a slightly longer driving range, but only 510km compared to 505km.

In the real world, the car’s own trip computer read around 480km when we collected it, but suggested with maximum efficiency (air-con off, driven in Eco mode, etc) we could reach more than 500km.

Energy consumption is rated 21.7kWh, but the EV9 GT was showing 24.2kWh on the trip computer. 

According to Kia, it can take up to 350kW of DC fast charging, which means a theoretical charging time from 10-80 per cent of just 24 minutes. Using a 50kW charger will extend that time to 83 minutes.

Again, in the real-world, using an Evie public charger we were able to add 42.1kWh in just under 34 minutes on a 75kW charger, taking the battery from 40 to 77 per cent.

The GV70 Signature Performance runs on a new 84kWh lithium-ion battery, giving a WLTP driving range of up to 462km which is a solid figure for both city commuters and regional drivers, provided you charge regularly. Genesis includes a couple of charging cables, and the SUV also offers V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capability, ideal for powering larger devices while stopped.

Charging options are strong. The Type 2 CCS port accepts up to 11kW on AC chargers and up to 350kW on DC fast chargers, allowing a 10 - 80 per cent charge in as little as 19 minutes on a 350kW unit or seven hours and 35 minutes on an 11kW AC charger. Realistically, most DC chargers on the road operate closer to 170kW or below, which still delivers a very usable recharge.

The GV70 also features four levels of regenerative braking, including a one-pedal mode. Staying mostly in this mode over the week, I achieved an energy consumption of 21.0kWh/100km, which is very close to the claimed 20.0kWh/100km and again, is a solid result for a car of this size and outputs.

On paper the EV9 GT sounds great if you’re into performance - 374kW and 740Nm is a lot for any type of car, even a big SUV. There’s no questioning that the EV9 GT is very, very fast, with that near-instant surge forward when you squeeze the accelerator in ‘GT’ mode.

But it is probably worth questioning the value of such a powerful and fast electric SUV, given the EV9 is clearly focused on being family friendly rather than a track weapon. To be perfectly candid, I rarely used the ‘GT’ mode because it just doesn’t suit the vast majority of driving conditions you’ll find yourself in driving an electric SUV.

I mean, you’ll never have an excuse for dropping the kids off at school late, but you’ll also likely rarely find yourself in a situation where you need to launch 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds too. Obviously the performance is nice to have and helps to justify the asking price, but in day-to-day driving it doesn’t really make a significant difference to the EV9 experience.

Because, when you don’t unleash all that performance, you find yourself in a very quiet and refined SUV. The cabin is well insulated from the outside world, so you do get a sense of luxury, which is a major positive.

The electronically controlled suspension does a nice job of providing a comfortable and relaxed ride even on the big 21-inch alloys. It also does a good job, most of the time, of hiding the weight of such a big, electric SUV, so the chassis and suspension development team have done a great job.

The digital mirrors were also helpful during this test. The first time I tested an EV9 with them I found them a bit odd to use, as the angle you’re looking at on the screen isn’t the actual perspective of the situation. But this time around I quickly adapted to them and can see the merits of such technology.

My kid called the GV70 the 'Marshmallow Limo' this week, and it’s an apt description for the ride comfort. The SUV probably delivers the one of the most comfortable rides I’ve experienced, thanks to soft suspension and new hydro bushings in the rear, which smooth out most vibrations. The trade-off is that it feels dampened when cornering and you glide over the road rather than feel it, which I find a little soft, but my husband loves.

The dual motors provide strong, prompt acceleration, and Boost Mode adds an extra kick when you need it. The cluster pulses red while active, which is a fun touch.

Visibility is excellent. The wide windows give a clear view around the car, and none of the pillars obstruct from my driving position. The digital rear-view mirror is particularly handy when carrying passengers or cargo.

Regenerative braking is easy to control via the steering wheel paddles. Mode 3 and the one-pedal function deliver strong regen without being harsh, but you need to adapt your braking technique, otherwise passengers might feel a little queasy.

Despite looking larger than it is, the GV70 is simple to park, thanks to an 11.5m turning circle and a 360-degree camera system, though the multiple view modes can feel overwhelming at first. I also love the remote parking via keyfob, which comes in handy in tight carparks or garages.

The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance carries a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2021 testing and comes with eight airbags as standard. One standout feature is the blind-spot view monitor, which displays a live video feed of your blind spot on the instrument cluster.

The update adds several new safety technologies, including parking collision avoidance assist for the front, side, and rear, as well as side parking sensors. Adaptive cruise control is now navigation-based, adjusting speed automatically for low-speed zones and curves in the road. Other standard safety equipment includes an active bonnet, lane keeping aid, lane departure warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, 360-degree camera, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, safe exit assist and driver attention warning.

Family-friendly features are also well catered for, with ISOFIX child seat mounts, three top-tether anchor points, rear occupant alert, intelligent seatbelt warnings, and rear child locks.

The autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with car, pedestrian, cyclist and backover detection is operational from 5.0 - 85km/h but it is usual to see the top figure sit well over 100km/h, especially for car detection.

Overall though, the GV70 combines a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems.

The EV9 is covered by the usual seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, albeit with the battery only covered for seven years/150,000km.

Service internals are 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first, and Kia offers pre-paid servicing plans from three to seven years. The three year plan will set you back $723, five years $1379 and seven years $2038.

That means the average cost actually increases the longer you’re covered, but even over seven years your yearly average is only $291 in maintenance.

One major positive for the brand’s owners is Kia has grown to 147 dealers nationally, with coverage across both metro and urban areas, with all service centres able to work on EVs. That means you’ll get the same ease-of-service whether you buy a petrol, diesel or electric Kia.

The GV70 Electrified Signature Performance comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and an eight-year/160,000km battery warranty, putting it in line with its rivals. What sets it apart are the extras included at no additional cost.

Genesis provides free scheduled servicing for five years or up to 75,000km, along with five years of roadside assistance through Assist Australia, and if you service through Genesis, that cover extends to ten years.

Owners also receive a complimentary five-year subscription to Genesis Connected Services and can choose either a five-year Chargefox subscription or an at-home wall-box charger.

Another practical bonus for regional drivers is that you aren’t limited to Genesis dealerships for servicing. You can use any of the hundreds of Hyundai service centres for scheduled maintenance, which makes ownership far more convenient. Overall, Genesis makes it easy and appealing to own a GV70.