2024 Kia EV9 vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2023 Genesis GV70 was a testament to the brand's commitment to luxury and style. Its design drew inspiration from the G70 compact luxury sedan, with split-bar headlights and a distinctive chrome line that elegantly curved from behind the rear window. This design element cleverly suggested a coupe-like SUV without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a showcase of luxury, featuring top-notch materials and a blend of contemporary and classic aesthetics. The climate controls were seamlessly integrated into a curving bezel, and the touchscreen rose organically from the dash, offering a user-friendly interface with physical rollers for volume control.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 made a bold statement with its cutting-edge design, reminiscent of a digital clock's numbers. Its exterior was distinctly Kia, with octagonal wheel arches and a sharply angled rear window. The lighting signature was a standout feature, with "Star Map" daytime running lights and a "Digital Tiger Face" grille. The top Land trim offered a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, adding a constellation of light points. The EV9's interior was equally impressive, with a spacious third row and a high-tech, connected experience that allowed for over-the-air updates and customizable features through the Kia Connect store.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70 delivered a refined driving experience, balancing comfort and sharp handling. The Electrified GV70 featured a 77.4-kWh battery powering two electric motors, generating 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. It offered a range of 383 kilometres and fast charging capabilities.

The 2024 Kia EV9 Light trim was powered by a single motor with 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering a range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model featured a larger 99.8-kWh battery, providing 201 horsepower and a range of 489 kilometres. The top Land trim offered all-wheel drive with dual motors, producing 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 451 kilometres. The GT-Line prioritized performance with a range of 435 kilometres. The EV9's power delivery was smooth, and its regenerative braking system was adjustable, offering a natural driving experience.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 818 litres with the seats in use. It featured a hands-free power liftgate and a well-designed interior with ample storage options. The front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring adjustments for a comfortable seating position.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering 1,004 millimetres of headroom and up to 813 millimetres of legroom. It could seat up to seven passengers, with a maximum cargo capacity of 2,313 litres. The EV9's interior featured a "floating" centre console and ample storage space, with second-row passengers enjoying additional amenities in the GT-Line trims.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included four USB ports, wireless charging, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Optional features included ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and an 18-speaker Lexicon audio system.

The 2024 Kia EV9 boasted a three-screen curved display, with a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad. The EV9's connectedness was a highlight, with over-the-air updates and customizable features available through the Kia Connect store.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a robust suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. While it had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.