The battle for the best electric SUV is heating up in 2025, with the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model X emerging as two top contenders. While Tesla has long dominated the luxury electric SUV market, Kia’s latest flagship EV, the EV9, is proving to be a strong competitor.
But which one should you buy? In this Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X comparison, we’ll break down price, performance, range, technology, interior features, and more to help you decide which electric SUV is right for you.
1. Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X – Price & Variants
One of the biggest differences between these two electric SUVs is their price point.
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | High-End Variant Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 Light RWD | $54,900 | – |
| Kia EV9 Wind AWD | $60,000 | – |
| Kia EV9 Land AWD | $65,000 | – |
| Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD | $73,900 | – |
| Tesla Model X (Dual Motor AWD) | $79,990 | – |
| Tesla Model X Plaid (Tri-Motor AWD) | $94,990 | – |
🚗 Winner: Kia EV9 – If you’re looking for an affordable electric SUV, the EV9 starts at nearly $25,000 less than the Model X, making it the better value.
2. Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X – Performance & Acceleration
Performance is where the Tesla Model X dominates, especially with its Plaid variant.
| Model | Horsepower (HP) | Torque (lb-ft) | 0-60 mph Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 Light (RWD) | 215 HP | 258 lb-ft | ~8.0 sec |
| Kia EV9 Wind/Land (AWD) | 379 HP | 516 lb-ft | ~5.0 sec |
| Kia EV9 GT-Line (AWD) | 379 HP | 516 lb-ft | ~4.5 sec |
| Tesla Model X (Dual Motor AWD) | 670 HP | 713 lb-ft | ~3.8 sec |
| Tesla Model X Plaid (Tri-Motor AWD) | 1,020 HP | 1,050 lb-ft | ~2.5 sec |
🚀 Winner: Tesla Model X – The Model X Plaid is the fastest electric SUV in the world, with a 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds. The Kia EV9 GT-Line is no slouch, but it’s more focused on comfort and capability than outright speed.
3. Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X – Battery Range & Charging
Both SUVs offer excellent electric range and fast charging options.
| Model | Battery Size | Max Range (EPA) | Fast Charging (10-80%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 Light RWD | 76.1 kWh | ~230 miles | ~25 mins (350 kW DC) |
| Kia EV9 AWD Models | 99.8 kWh | ~300 miles | ~25 mins (350 kW DC) |
| Tesla Model X (Dual Motor) | 100 kWh | ~348 miles | ~30 mins (250 kW Supercharger) |
| Tesla Model X Plaid | 100 kWh | ~333 miles | ~30 mins (250 kW Supercharger) |
⚡ Winner: Tesla Model X – The Model X offers more range per charge, but the Kia EV9 has faster charging speeds (350 kW vs. Tesla’s 250 kW), making it better for road trips with ultra-fast chargers.
4. Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X – Interior & Technology
Both SUVs feature high-tech, premium interiors with cutting-edge technology, but they take different approaches.
Kia EV9 Interior Features:
✔ Spacious 3-row seating (Up to 7 passengers)
✔ 27-inch ultra-wide display (Infotainment + Digital Cluster)
✔ Second-row captain’s chairs (Optional)
✔ Premium ambient lighting & high-quality materials
✔ AI voice assistant & augmented reality HUD
Tesla Model X Interior Features:
✔ Minimalist interior with a 17-inch touchscreen
✔ Yoke-style steering wheel (Controversial but unique)
✔ Falcon Wing rear doors (Aesthetic and functional)
✔ Glass panoramic windshield for an open-air feel
✔ Tesla Autopilot & Full Self-Driving (Optional upgrade)
🛋 Winner: Kia EV9 for Comfort, Tesla Model X for Tech – The Kia EV9 offers more practical space and luxury SUV comfort, while Tesla delivers a futuristic, tech-heavy experience with Autopilot.
5. Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X – Safety & Autopilot Features
Both vehicles come with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), but Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) is more advanced (though still not fully autonomous).
Kia EV9 Safety Features:
✔ Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) – Level 3 Autonomy (Coming Soon)
✔ Blind-Spot View Monitor & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
✔ Surround-View Camera & Parking Assist
✔ Lane Keep Assist & Smart Cruise Control
Tesla Model X Safety Features:
✔ Tesla Autopilot (Standard) – Hands-free highway driving
✔ Full Self-Driving (FSD) – Optional ($12,000 extra)
✔ 360-degree cameras & Smart Summon
✔ Automatic emergency braking & lane assist
🚦 Winner: Tesla Model X – Tesla’s Autopilot and FSD technology remain the most advanced in the industry, but the Kia EV9 offers strong Level 3 autonomy capabilities for a fraction of the price.
Final Verdict: Kia EV9 or Tesla Model X?
✔ If you want a luxury electric SUV with extreme performance and the latest tech, the Tesla Model X is the clear winner.
✔ If you’re looking for a spacious, affordable, and family-friendly EV SUV with a luxurious interior, the Kia EV9 is the best option.
Who Wins in Each Category?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Affordability & Value | Kia EV9 |
| Performance & Acceleration | Tesla Model X |
| Range & Charging | Tesla Model X |
| Interior Comfort & Space | Kia EV9 |
| Technology & Autonomy | Tesla Model X |
| Overall Practicality | Kia EV9 |
🎯 Overall Winner: Tie – It depends on your needs!
💡 The Kia EV9 is the better buy for most people, but Tesla Model X is the premium choice for those who prioritize speed and cutting-edge tech.
Which One Would You Choose?
Would you go for the luxurious, high-tech Tesla Model X or the affordable, practical Kia EV9? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 🚙⚡
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