Kia Delays US Launch of High-Performance EV9 GT Electric SUV Indefinitely
Sporty three-row EV shelved amid shifting market conditions and policy changes.
Kia has postponed the U.S. launch of its highly anticipated EV9 GT electric SUV indefinitely, marking the second electrified model shelved by the automaker this year. The sporty three-row SUV had been slated for a late-2025 release but now faces an uncertain future despite generating significant buzz after its debut at the 2024 LA Auto Show.
Performance Promises Derailed
The GT variant promised to elevate Kia’s flagship EV9 with:
- 501 horsepower (122 hp more than GT-Line models)
- 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.3 seconds
- Exclusive features like virtual gear shifting (VGS) and electronically controlled suspension
- GT-specific exterior/interior styling
Former Kia America COO Steven Center had touted the model as “a home run” for driving enthusiasts needing practicality. “You can have your cake and eat it too,” he declared last November.
Policy Shifts Force Strategic Pivot
Kia cited “changing market conditions” for the delay, echoing its recent indefinite postponement of the EV4 electric sedan. Key factors include:
⚠️ Loss of federal $7,500 EV tax credit eligibility under new Trump administration policies
⚠️ 15% import tariffs on South Korean-built models (GT ships from Korea)
Despite a new U.S.-South Korea trade deal reducing tariffs from 25% to 15%, Kia has responded with aggressive discounts up to $10,000 across its EV lineup, including the Georgia-built standard EV9 and EV6 GT. Lease deals now start at $309/month for EV6 and $419/month for EV9 models.
The Bigger Picture for US EV Market
This marks another setback for American EV enthusiasts following:
• Ford scaling back F-150 Lightning production
• GM delaying Equinox EV rollout
• Lucid reducing Air sedan output
While standard EV9 production continues in Georgia, the high-performance GT’s status now hinges on evolving trade policies and consumer demand. Kia’s recent leasing incentives suggest urgency to move existing inventory while enthusiasts await clarity on the delayed halo models.
Key Takeaways:
- Kia postpones EV9 GT and EV4 launches amid policy/tariff challenges
- South Korean production subjects GT to 15% US import tariffs
- Standard EV9 (built in Georgia) remains available with new discounts
- Future of performance EVs in US market remains policy-dependent
