The Kia EV9 GT and Volvo EX90 Twin Motor are two of the most ambitious seven-seat electric SUVs available, priced within £3,000 of each other. Both offer rapid charging, all-wheel drive, and enough space for a family’s luggage, yet their driving experiences differ sharply.
The Volvo’s Safety Net
The EX90 adopts Scandinavian minimalism with a near-clinical approach. Unvarnished wood trim, Cardamom leather, and a button-free cabin create a concept-car aesthetic. The central touchscreen controls nearly everything, from mirror adjustments to seat heating. While sleek, the system requires time to learn. Even simple tasks involve handling menus, and the car’s safety features add to the challenge.
Within minutes, the Volvo’s voice interrupts: “You seem tired. Is it time to take a break?” A glance at the screen triggers another alert: “Driver distracted. Keep eyes on the road.” Lane-keeping assist and traffic sign recognition default to overcorrection, making them difficult to disable.
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On the road, the EX90 delivers effortless competence. Acceleration is smooth, body control is precise, and the ride absorbs imperfections without fuss. The car offers three modes—Normal, AWD, and Off-Road—prioritizing predictability over excitement. It’s designed to disappear beneath the driver, leaving only calm.
The Kia’s Bold Approach
The EV9 GT makes no attempt to blend in. Neon yellow brake calipers and an assertive stance signal its presence. Inside, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and matching digital driver display share space with an array of physical controls. Knobs, switches, and a haptic mode bar fill the center console. The layout is busy but tactile, allowing drivers to operate functions by feel.
The third row stands out for its practicality. An electrically folding second row and wider access gap make it more usable for adults than the Volvo’s. Cargo space is generous, accommodating everything from luggage to bulky items. The real surprise, however, is the driving experience.
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The EV9 GT’s performance-oriented setup makes it feel jittery, prioritizing engagement over comfort. It excels in short bursts but becomes tiring over long distances.
Choosing Between Them
Both charge from 10-80% in the low 20 minutes using 800-volt architecture. The Volvo’s slightly larger battery provides a small range advantage. Both include heat pumps, vehicle-to-load capability, and advanced driver-assistance features.
The Kia includes more standard equipment, but the Volvo’s brand carries greater prestige. Functionally, they perform similarly—both excel at transporting people and cargo, charge quickly, and require time to master. The deciding factor is personality.
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The EX90 suits those who prefer a relaxed arrival. It’s fast without being flashy, spacious without feeling cumbersome, and safe without being intrusive. It feels like a deep exhale.
The EV9 GT appeals to drivers who want engagement. It’s a seven-seat SUV with character, responding eagerly to inputs. That personality comes with trade-offs: a firmer ride and occasional moments of tension. It’s entertaining but not always comfortable.
Most buyers would likely prefer the tamer, longer-range versions of these models. Forced to choose, the Volvo edges ahead as the more polished option—though it won’t deliver the same thrills.
