Kia debuts 3 new electrified models that take style and performance to the next level

Kia America stole the spotlight at the recent LA Auto Show with a mainstage press conference that was a strategic revelation of Kia’s advancements in electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The automaker debuted three new electrified models with major upgrades in performance, innovation and design:

• The long-awaited 2026 EV9 GT, with 501 horsepower
• The 2025 Kia EV6, with more power and extended driving range
• The reimagined 2026 Sportage, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with a sleek look and tech-loaded interior

James Bell, head of corporate communications for Kia America, shared that Kia also announced two big moves that will strengthen the company’s position in the U.S. market and improve EV affordability and convenience for consumers:

• Starting in the first half of 2025, all Kia EV9s will be equipped with the new North American Charging Standard port, allowing buyers to access DC fast chargers with NACS charging connectors, including Tesla Superchargers. The change will bring the number of charging stations available to EV9 drivers to 35,000, nearly double the current amount, according to Bell.
• Kia is shifting production of the EV6 and EV9 from South Korea to its U.S. plant in West Point, Georgia — a $217 million investment that will make the cars eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit. Under the current rules, vehicles must have their final assembly in North America to qualify. The future of the federal tax credit is murky under the new administration, but the drive toward electrification is unlikely to slow.

“Kia’s commitment to becoming a leader in sustainable mobility remains firm,” Bell said.

Ed Kim, president and chief analyst at AutoPacific Inc., an automotive marketing research and consulting firm, noted that the brand’s diverse lineup of 10 electrified vehicles already sets it apart in the marketplace.

“Few brands offer such a variety of electrified options at such a wide variety of price points and vehicle segments,” Kim said. “From the Kia Niro Hybrid, starting at about $27,000, all the way to the luxurious and tech-packed EV9 GT-Line, Kia offers nearly unmatched choice for shoppers looking for sustainable transportation.”

2026 EV9 GT

At the auto show, Eric Watson, vice president of sales for Kia America, said the 2026 Kia EV9 GT is “an example of how fast we can go as we take the brand to the next level.”

Watson pointed out that the engineering of the EV9 GT brings serious high-performance goods to the dual-motor, three-row SUV crossover, including:

• 501 hp, which is 122 hp more than the current Kia EV9 GT-Line
• 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.3 seconds
• Upgraded electronics and suspension controls
• Larger front brakes with GT calipers
• Green button performance mode. A green GT button on the steering wheel optimizes the steering, brake feel, and acceleration. The sportier calibrations include stiffer shock absorber damping through the electronic suspension. The Virtual Gear Shift can simulate the shift points of an automatic transmission.
• A suede-trimmed cabin with deeply bolstered front sport seats, green accents, and embossed logos

The 2026 Kia EV9 GT is expected in dealerships toward the latter half of 2025. Pricing will be announced closer to the launch date.

2025 EV6 and EV6 GT

The refreshed EV6 and EV6 GT features some key upgrades in style and performance and is already drawing praise from EV enthusiasts like Wayne Gerdes, an electric vehicle and hypermiling expert at cleanmpg.com.

“Great looks, even better utility, reasonably priced, 319 miles of range in RWD trim, and its charge rate is near the top of the EV universe,” Gerdes said. “What more could you ask for?”

The updates include:

• Up to 319 miles of driving range with the top 84kW battery
• Power increases to 225 hp with 258 foot-pounds of torque
• A connected car navigation cockpit with dual curved 12.3-inch displays powered by a next-generation infotainment system
• Star Map lighting at the rear 3D taillights and wing-shaped rear bumper
• A more premium interior environment with a redesigned device charging pad and D-shaped steering wheel
• Steering with hands-on detection when using Level II semiautonomous drive system

The GT trim adds even more features:

• Launch mode raises power from 601 hp to 641 hp, and torque increases from 545 lb.-ft to 568 lb.-ft.
• Ultrafast 800-volt charging system
• A virtual gearshift that uses visuals, engine-sound effects and tactile sensations to simulate shifts

2026 Sportage HEV and PHEV

As Kia’s longest-running nameplate, the Sportage undergoes its most significant change since the fifth-generation model launched almost three years ago. The refreshed Sportage, available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, is expected to be on sale in the second quarter of 2025.

Modifications include a bolder vertical grille with Star Map lighting and amber daytime running lights. The rear bumper was updated to show a wider stance. And the X-Line Hybrid will come with 19-inch black alloy wheels.

Inside, the new design emphasizes distinct “living spaces” for driver and passenger. The driver’s position has a two-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel, and there are other modern high-tech elements with soft materials, including synthetic leather upholstery.

Additional updated features include:

• Standard smart key entry with push-button start
• Panoramic dual 12.3-inch displays for a connected car navigation cockpit
• Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates
• More powerful turbocharged engines: 231-hp Sportage Hybrid and 268-hp Plug-in Hybrid
• Advanced Driver Assist System suite now includes available Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Direct Oncoming Detection and Avoidance, next-level
• Highway Drive Assist, and front-side-rear parking distance warnings

Learn more about Kia’s electrified lineup at kia.com.

About the author

Mark Maynard has been writing about cars, their people and products for 30 years. Find him at MaynardsGarage.com.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.