The electric vehicle (EV) landscape is evolving rapidly, and in the SUV segment, two contenders are emerging as front-runners in the battle for dominance: the Kia EV9 and the Rivian R1S. Both are fully electric, three-row SUVs designed to cater to eco-conscious families who don’t want to compromise on space, performance, or luxury. While they both offer remarkable features, their unique strengths cater to different types of drivers and preferences. Let’s dive into how the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S stack up against each other and determine which might dominate the growing market for three-row electric SUVs.
1. Design and Exterior
Both the Kia EV9 and the Rivian R1S make a bold statement with their exterior designs. The EV9 embraces Kia’s futuristic design philosophy, featuring sharp lines, angular surfaces, and a muscular stance. It exudes a sleek, modern aesthetic that appeals to drivers who want to stand out on the road.
The Rivian R1S, on the other hand, offers a more rugged, adventure-ready appearance. With its rounded edges and robust build, it is designed to appeal to those who crave off-road exploration and adventure. The R1S has a more utilitarian design, yet maintains an air of sophistication with its minimalistic front grille and sleek LED lighting.
While the EV9 may win over drivers who prefer urban sophistication, the R1S is likely to attract those with a passion for the outdoors and rugged adventure.
2. Interior and Space
One of the major draws of three-row SUVs is their ability to comfortably seat larger families. Both the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S deliver on this front, but in slightly different ways.
The Kia EV9 is expected to offer a luxurious, tech-forward cabin that emphasizes comfort and convenience. It will come with a roomy interior, offering generous legroom and headroom for all three rows. Kia’s focus on ergonomics and ease of use shines through, with a dashboard that integrates multiple high-definition touchscreens for infotainment and vehicle controls. Additionally, the EV9 will boast sustainable materials, further appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
The Rivian R1S is also designed to seat seven passengers comfortably, but its interior leans more toward a rugged, adventure-ready style. With premium materials such as vegan leather and sustainably sourced wood, the cabin feels luxurious, yet durable enough to withstand outdoor excursions. Rivian’s unique gear tunnel, located between the second and third rows, offers additional storage and highlights its practical, adventure-oriented design.
When it comes to space and layout, both vehicles shine, but the EV9 seems to offer more of a tech-luxury focus, whereas the R1S prioritizes durability and versatility for outdoor adventures.
3. Performance and Range
Performance is a key area where these two vehicles take different approaches. The Kia EV9 is expected to offer a balanced blend of power and efficiency, with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) option and a range of around 300 miles on a single charge. It will likely focus on delivering a smooth and quiet driving experience, making it ideal for urban driving and long road trips.
The Rivian R1S, however, takes performance to a different level with its quad-motor AWD system. Each wheel has its own dedicated motor, allowing for precise control and immense off-road capability. With up to 750 horsepower, the R1S can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just three seconds—impressive for a three-row SUV. Its range is slightly higher than the EV9, at around 316 miles per charge, depending on the model.
For those who value speed, off-road prowess, and raw power, the R1S is the clear choice. However, the EV9 offers a more refined, balanced driving experience that may appeal to a broader audience.
4. Technology and Features
Both the EV9 and R1S are packed with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment.
The Kia EV9 will feature Kia’s latest infotainment system, combining multiple high-definition displays to create a seamless digital experience. This includes advanced driver-assistance features, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and a wide array of connectivity options such as wireless smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and 5G compatibility. Kia is also incorporating advanced AI into the system, allowing for voice commands and personalized user profiles that adapt to driver preferences.
The Rivian R1S offers its own high-tech interior, with a focus on off-road performance and adventure. Rivian’s infotainment system is designed to be intuitive and responsive, with a large touchscreen display that controls everything from climate settings to off-road driving modes. One standout feature is its suite of cameras, sensors, and LiDAR for off-road navigation and autonomous driving, making it easier to tackle challenging terrain. Rivian also offers OTA updates and Amazon Alexa integration, enabling smart home control from the driver’s seat.
In the tech battle, the EV9 seems more focused on urban convenience and luxury, while the R1S aims to dominate in adventure-focused technologies.
5. Pricing and Value
Pricing is where these two SUVs differ significantly, and this may be the deciding factor for many buyers. The Kia EV9is expected to be priced more affordably, with a starting price estimated around $50,000 to $60,000, making it an appealing option for families looking to make the jump to electric without breaking the bank. It offers an excellent balance of luxury, space, and technology at a competitive price point.
The Rivian R1S, however, comes at a premium. Starting at around $78,000, it is targeted toward buyers who are willing to pay more for top-tier performance, off-road capabilities, and high-end features. While its price may be higher, the R1S offers a level of performance and adventure-readiness that is unmatched in the EV market.
For buyers on a budget, the Kia EV9 is likely to offer the best value for money, but for those seeking the ultimate adventure vehicle with no expense spared, the Rivian R1S is the go-to choice.
6. Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing between the Kia EV9 and the Rivian R1S depends largely on your priorities. If you’re looking for a luxurious, spacious, and tech-forward family SUV with excellent range and an affordable price tag, the Kia EV9 is a fantastic option. Its modern design, ample interior space, and cutting-edge technology make it a strong contender in the three-row electric SUV market.
However, if performance, off-road capability, and rugged adventure are your main priorities, the Rivian R1S is the clear winner. Its powerful quad-motor system, incredible off-road features, and premium interior make it a perfect choice for those who want an SUV that can handle both the city streets and the most challenging trails.
Both the EV9 and R1S are pushing the boundaries of what three-row electric SUVs can offer, making this an exciting time for EV enthusiasts. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your lifestyle, driving needs, and budget.
Final Thoughts
As electric vehicles continue to dominate the automotive landscape, the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S are setting new standards in the three-row SUV market. While both vehicles offer impressive features, they cater to slightly different audiences—luxury and value with the EV9, and power and adventure with the R1S. Whichever you choose, both models promise to deliver an electrifying driving experience that helps shape the future of sustainable transportation.