Kia’s electric SUV lineup is growing, and two models are generating the most interest right now: the 2026 Kia EV9 and the upcoming 2027 Kia EV3. The EV9 is a three-row electric SUV built for families and those who need additional space. The EV3 is a compact EV arriving in summer 2026 for drivers who want something smaller, and more efficient, at an accessible price point. We will compare key specifications and features of both models, to help you make an informed decision when shopping for an EV.
Overview at a Glance
Here is a quick side-by-side comparison between the Kia EV9 and Kia EV3.
| Feature | 2026 Kia EV9 | 2027 Kia EV3 |
|---|---|---|
| Size Class | Mid-size 3-row SUV | Compact SUV |
| Seating Capacity | 6 or 7 passengers | 5 |
| Starting MSRP | $54,900 | Not yet announced |
| Range | Up to 305 miles (EPA-estimated) | Up to 320 miles (Kia-estimated, Wind FWD trim) |
| Drivetrain Options | RWD or dual-motor AWD | FWD or available dual-motor e-AWD |
| Charge Port | NACS | NACS |
| Availability | Available now | Expected late 2026 |
The EV9 is fully specced, priced, and available now. The EV3 is coming soon, but some details are still being finalized ahead of its arrival.
Size and Passenger Space
The 2026 Kia EV9 is a mid-size, three-row electric SUV. Depending on the trim, it seats six or seven passengers. With the second row folded, cargo space behind the first row reaches 81.7 cubic feet. Even with all three rows in use, there is still 20.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row. The EV9 is purpose-built for families, frequent carpoolers, and anyone who hauls a meaningful amount of gear on a regular basis.
The 2027 Kia EV3 is a compact SUV that is expected to offer a more affordable entry price compared to the EV9. Seating capacity and cargo dimensions for U.S. models have not been officially published yet. What Kia has confirmed is that the EV3 is designed for daily life in a more manageable footprint, with exterior styling that borrows cues from the larger EV9. For buyers who do not need three rows and prefer something smaller and easier to park and drive day-to-day, the EV3 will be a great match.
Range and Charging
Both models include a built-in NACS charge port, making them compatible with the Tesla Supercharger network and NACS stations. That is a meaningful advantage for real-world charging flexibility regardless of which model you choose.
The 2026 Kia EV9 offers EPA-estimated range from 230 miles on the Light RWD trim up to 305 miles on the Light Long Range RWD. The EV9 is built on an 800V charging architecture. With a 350 kW DC fast charger, it can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 to 24 minutes depending on the battery size. With a NACS charger, that window extends to roughly 27 to 34 minutes.
The 2027 Kia EV3 is targeting up to 320 miles of all-electric range on the Wind FWD trim, though that figure is Kia-estimated and EPA ratings have not been released yet. On the Light trim, DC fast charging from 10% to 80% is expected to take approximately 29 minutes with a compatible fast charger.
For long-distance driving, the EV9’s 800V architecture and faster charge speeds give it a practical edge. For everyday commuting and local trips, either vehicle covers most drivers’ weekly range needs without issue.
Power and Driving Dynamics
The 2026 Kia EV9 comes with confirmed powertrain specs across its full lineup. The Light RWD produces 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. AWD trims deliver 379 horsepower, with torque ranging from 443 lb-ft up to 516 lb-ft on the GT-Line. Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds on the Land AWD and GT-Line AWD trims. Even the entry-level RWD trims are rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds. For buyers who need to haul a trailer, a boat, or outdoor equipment, the EV9 Land and GT-Line are the trims to consider.
The 2027 Kia EV3 will offer front-wheel drive as standard, with dual-motor e-AWD available as an option. Horsepower, torque, and towing figures have not been announced for U.S. models yet. Given its compact size and positioning, the EV3 is expected to serve as a capable daily commuter.
Technology and Features
Both models arrive with a substantial digital display setup. The 2026 Kia EV9 features a combined 29.6-inch panoramic display integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment screen. Higher trims add an available 12-inch Head-Up Display, Digital Key 2.0, over-the-air software updates, Meridian premium audio with 14 speakers, and a Full Display Digital Rearview Mirror. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The EV9 also includes Onboard Power Generator capability on available trims, which lets you power compatible devices directly from the vehicle.
The 2027 Kia EV3 brings nearly 30 inches of combined digital display space split across a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a 5.3-inch climate control display. It includes wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and available Onboard Power Generator capability. On available trims, the EV3 adds a Blind-Spot View Monitor and 360-degree Surround View Monitor. Kia lists up to 27 available collision avoidance and driver assistance features for the EV3, though a full trim-by-trim breakdown for U.S. models has not been published.
The EV9’s standard safety suite is comprehensive right out of the box: Auto Emergency Braking, Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Keeping and Following 2, Highway Driving Assist 2, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go are all included. Both models reflect Kia’s approach to building technology into the vehicle in a way that feels intentional and practical.
Price and Availability
The 2026 Kia EV9 is available now, with pricing starting at $54,900 MSRP for the Light RWD and reaching $71,900 for the GT-Line AWD. That range covers buyers looking for an accessible entry point into a three-row electric SUV, as well as those who want a more fully equipped setup with AWD, advanced technology, and higher towing capacity. With five trim levels, the EV9 lineup has enough range to match most budgets within the large-SUV segment.
The 2027 Kia EV3 is expected to arrive in mid to late 2026. Official pricing has not been announced. Given that the EV3 is positioned as a compact SUV model below the EV6 and EV9 in Kia’s lineup, it is expected to carry a lower starting price than the EV9, though no official figure has been confirmed. Buyers who are interested should keep an eye on inventory announcements and contact us to be notified of available inventory.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you need a vehicle now, require space for more than four passengers, or want confirmed pricing and specs before committing, the 2026 Kia EV9 is the straightforward choice. It is available, it is thoroughly specced, and it delivers across the areas that matter most to families.
If you are looking for a more affordable compact Kia EV with good range, the 2027 Kia EV3 is worth waiting for. Some details are still being finalized, but the early impressions show the EV3 to be a well-equipped compact SUV, great for daily driving.
The team at Cable Dahmer Kia of Lawrence can walk you through the current EV9 lineup and let you know when EV3 inventory information becomes available. Schedule a test drive to get behind the wheel of the EV9 or contact us to learn more about availability for the upcoming 2027 Kia EV3.
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