• by Tanya Gazdik , Staff Writer, April 10, 2023

NEW YORK — The Kia EV9 was the most-talked about unveiling at last week’s New York International Auto Show. 

The brand’s first three-row battery electric vehicle (BEV) debuted on Tuesday night during an exclusive press event offsite prior to the media days, which were Wednesday and Thursday. 

Unlike most vehicle debuts, Kia offered a deep dive into the vehicle’s exterior and interior appearance, and had on hand the entire U.S. and global design team along with Kia North America President and CEO Sean Yoon and Kia Vice President of Marketing Russell Wager. 

Wager called the EV9 “the latest evidence of our brand’s transformation.” 

The vehicle features “Opposites United” design language that “takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity.”

At the center of the design philosophy is a visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylistic elements and sculptural shapes. Opposites United is based on five key design principles: "Bold for Nature,” “Joy for Reason,” “Power to Progress,” “Technology for Life” “Tension for Serenity.”

The family-friendly vehicle offers up to 5,000 lb. of towing capacity. Under the hood, the GT version of the vehicle features a dual-motor capable of 379 hp and 0-to-60 mph acceleration in 5 seconds. 

Targeted to go on sale in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2023, it is expected to be assembled in West Point, Georgia starting in 2024, according to the automaker. 

Other notable vehicle debuts at the New York show included a new EV from Stellantis, the Ram’s first BEV, the Rev. The Ram 1500 Rev will have a targeted range of either 350 or 500 miles, depending on model. 

Subaru of America, which debuted a new Crosstrek at the Chicago Auto Show, this time showed off the Wilderness version of the small SUV. The Crosstrek Wilderness adds exclusive mechanical, design, and functional enhancements for added capability on the roads and trails less traveled, according to the automaker. 

Several concept vehicles also debuted including the striking Genesis GV80 coupe concept and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum concept. 

The latter is notable since this is the first time that Disney has opened the doors to their design studio and granted access to Disney’s iconic characters for an artistic collaboration with an automaker.

The vehicle features special Disney-inspired visual accents and entertainment including lighting and iconic Disney music.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum concept

Genesis GV80 coupe concept