Kia's 2026 EV9 SUV: 3-Row Variant Priced Between $54,900 and $71,900, Receives a $7,500 Tax Incentive - Limited Offer
The much-anticipated 2026 Kia EV9, an all-electric three-row sport utility vehicle, is set to hit the market with a range of trim options and an attractive pricing structure. However, it's essential to note that the eligibility for the federal EV tax credit varies depending on the specific trim and assembly location.
The good news is that most trims of the 2026 EV9, including the Light Standard Range, Light Long Range, Wind, Land, and GT-Line, are eligible for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit, as they are assembled in Georgia, USA, meeting the North American assembly requirement.
However, the high-performance EV9 GT trim, which is built in South Korea, does not qualify for the federal tax credit. Furthermore, some 2026 EV9 Light Long Range models may also be ineligible for the tax credit.
Here's a summary of the eligibility for the 2026 Kia EV9:
| 2026 Kia EV9 Trim | Assembly Location | Federal EV Tax Credit Eligibility | |-----------------------|-------------------|--------------------------------------| | Most trims | Georgia, USA | Eligible for up to $7,500 tax credit | | EV9 GT trim | South Korea | Ineligible for federal tax credit | | Some Light Long Range | Georgia, USA (?) | Some models may be ineligible |
The eligibility for the 2026 EV9 is also due to Kia's production of this model in Georgia, which meets the North American assembly requirement.
In addition to the tax credit eligibility, the 2026 Kia EV9 offers advanced driver-assist systems as standard across most trims, including Highway Driving Assist 2, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist 2. The vehicle also retains its foundation as a modular, rear-biased electric platform (E-GMP) vehicle, supporting ultra-fast DC fast charging.
The EV9 is available in a new Nightfall Edition, an appearance-focused package on the Land AWD trim. This edition features exclusive 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels, darkened Kia badging, and high-gloss black exterior elements. Inside, the Nightfall Edition offers distinctive seat stitching, bespoke interior trim, and subtle yet impactful design flourishes.
The Light Long Range model now offers an estimated 305 miles of range, the longest in the lineup. The Nightfall Edition is available in both 6- and 7-passenger configurations.
It's worth mentioning that the federal EV tax credit program is subject to potential legislative changes. A bill introduced by the House Ways and Means Committee proposes to eliminate key EV tax credits by the end of 2026. Therefore, it's crucial to stay informed about any updates regarding the tax credit program.
Lastly, all all-wheel drive variants now have a Terrain Mode system, replacing the outgoing 4WD configuration. With its impressive features, competitive pricing, and potential tax credit benefits, the 2026 Kia EV9 is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market.
- The 2026 Kia EV9, a three-row sport utility vehicle, is assembled in Georgia, USA, making most trims eligible for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
- Conversely, the high-performance EV9 GT trim, built in South Korea, does not qualify for the federal tax credit.
- Some 2026 EV9 Light Long Range models, even though assembled in Georgia, may also be ineligible for the tax credit.
- With features like advanced driver-assist systems, ultra-fast DC fast charging, a Nightfall Edition, and estimated ranges up to 305 miles, the 2026 Kia EV9 offers a compelling choice in the electric vehicle market.
