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Two new seven-seater electric crossovers: a comparison of interiors, performance, and technology

Frank Miller RUSSPAIN.com

Post by Frank Miller

Kia EV9 GT vs Volvo EX90 Twin Motor AWD: Battle of the Electric Giants. The Kia EV9 GT and Volvo EX90 Twin Motor AWD are two large electric SUVs with three rows of seats, each redefining the concept of a family car in their own way. We compared them across key parameters — from interior quality to ride and charging.

The Kia EV9 GT and Volvo EX90 Twin Motor AWD are two new flagship electric SUVs designed for large families and long-distance travel. Both vehicles offer three rows of seats, impressive dimensions, and modern technology, but they achieve these qualities in different ways.

The Volvo EX90, updated for 2026 and assembled in South Carolina, features an 800-volt electric architecture and measures 5.04 meters in length with a 2.99-meter wheelbase. Externally, it looks reserved, while the interior is minimalist: almost all controls are focused on a 14.5-inch touchscreen, which takes some getting used to. The front seats are comfortable, but the adjustments are not always intuitive, and genuine leather has been replaced with synthetic material. The second row can seat two or three people, but the third row is more suitable for short trips—there isn’t much space there.

The Kia EV9 GT is slightly shorter (5.02 m) but has a longer wheelbase (3.10 m), which is noticeable in the cabin. The second row features spacious individual seats, while the third row is positioned higher, yet still offers acceptable comfort. The Kia’s front seats provide pronounced lateral support and a massage function for the driver. The dashboard combines physical buttons, touch elements, and a 12.3-inch display, making controls intuitive even without a long adjustment period.

The Volvo EX90 stands out for its optional air suspension with six adjustable settings: even on 22-inch wheels, the ride remains smooth, only occasionally transmitting minor bumps. The Kia EV9 GT is equipped with steel springs and adaptive dampers, making its suspension more composed but not stiff — the body handles undulations well, though it doesn't quite match the Volvo's magic-carpet effect.

Steering in both models is not perfect: in the Volvo it's light and relaxed, while the Kia requires a bit more effort, fitting the sporty image of the GT version. When it comes to driver assistance, the Volvo doesn’t always live up to expectations: its collision warning system often gives false alerts, and there is no automatic traffic sign recognition. Google navigation requires a constant internet connection and sometimes loses the route. In the Kia, the system adapts to traffic signs but is sometimes slow to respond to roundabouts and when entering towns.

As for the batteries, the Kia EV9 GT comes with a 99.8 kWh battery and, with a test consumption of 36.2 kWh/100 km in freezing temperatures, demonstrated a range of 308 km. Charging from 10 to 80% takes 24 minutes at a 210 kW output. The Volvo EX90 is equipped with a 107 kWh battery, consumes 35.6 kWh/100 km, and travels 368 km under similar conditions. Its charging is faster: 22 minutes to 80% at 250 kW.

In the final comparison, the Kia EV9 GT comes out slightly ahead: it offers more space, better equipment, and a longer warranty. The Volvo EX90 excels in range, ride comfort, and projected residual value, but falls short in ergonomics and ease of use. As AUTO BILD notes, the final ratings are 8.4 for Kia and 8.2 for Volvo.

The choice between these models depends on your priorities: the Kia is suitable for those who value space and functionality, while the Volvo is ideal for those seeking maximum comfort and range. For those considering purchasing an electric car in the coming years, it is also useful to review the analysis of segments and technologies in the article on choosing a car in 2026.

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