How Does the 2024 Kia EV9 Perform in a Real-World Car Seat Check?

Based on our assessment experience, the 2024 Kia EV9 earns top marks for car seat installation in its second row but presents significant challenges in the third row, especially when equipped with popular captain's chairs. This comprehensive car seat check, conducted by certified technicians, reveals that while the EV9 is a roomy and comfortable people mover, its ability to function as a true three-row family hauler depends heavily on your seating configuration and car seat needs. The critical finding: a model with second-row captain's chairs cannot fit three car seats.

What Are the Car Seat Installation Grades for the Kia EV9's Second Row?

The second row of the Kia EV9 is where it truly shines for families. In our evaluation, which uses a Chicco KeyFit 30 infant seat, a Graco Contender 65 convertible seat, and a Graco TurboBooster, the EV9's second row consistently scored high marks.

• LATCH System: Grade A The two sets of lower anchors (the metal bars in the seat bight where the lower straps of a car seat connect) are partially exposed, making connection straightforward. The two top tether anchors (located midway down the seatback) are clearly marked and simple to use.
• Infant Seat: Grade A Installation was trouble-free thanks to the easy-access lower anchors. There was also ample legroom for a 5-foot, 6-inch front passenger sitting in front of the rear-facing infant seat.
• Rear-Facing Convertible: Grade A Similar to the infant seat, the rear-facing convertible was easy to install. Passenger legroom remained generous.
• Forward-Facing Convertible: Grade A After removing the head restraint, the seat installed easily and fit well. Connecting to the top tether anchor was simple.
• Booster Seat: Grade A The booster seat also fit well after head restraint removal. A key advantage is that the seat belt buckles are on tall, stable stalks, making them easy for children to grasp and use independently.

How Easy Is It to Access the Kia EV9's Third Row?

Accessing the third row receives a lower Grade C, primarily due to a slow-moving power seat and a small resulting opening. The step-in height is tall, which may be difficult for smaller children or adults with limited mobility.

• In the GT-Line trim we tested, the power-operated captain's chair slides forward to create an entry path. However, this process takes approximately 9 seconds, which can feel lengthy when loading children. The opening it creates is also relatively narrow.
• An alternative is a small pass-through between the captain's chairs.
• It's worth noting that lower trims with manual second-row seats (like the Land trim) move out of the way much faster, potentially improving the access experience.

Can You Comfortably Fit Car Seats in the EV9's Third Row?

While the third-row LATCH system itself is excellent (Grade A), actually fitting and using car seats there comes with major compromises, resulting in grades of B and C.

• Third-Row LATCH: Grade A There are two sets of exposed lower anchors and two top tether anchors a third of the way down the seatback. All are easy to find and use.
• Forward-Facing Convertible: Grade B We had no trouble connecting to the anchors. However, the third row's fixed head restraint pushed the car seat forward, preventing it from sitting flush against the seatback, which can affect stability. A critical warning: if a rear-facing car seat is installed in the second row directly in front, there is practically no legroom left in the third row.
• Booster Seat: Grade C The fixed head restraint also caused a poor fit with the booster seat. Furthermore, the seat belt buckles sink into the cushion and are held by fabric straps, making them tricky for small hands to find and use. The same severe legroom limitation applies if a rear-facing seat is in front.

What Is the Bottom Line for Families Considering the Kia EV9?

For families prioritizing car seat convenience, the 2024 Kia EV9 presents a clear set of trade-offs. If your primary need is to transport two children in car seats, the EV9 with captain's chairs is an excellent, comfortable choice with top-tier installation features in the second row. However, if you need to regularly use the third row for children in car seats, the reality is more complicated.

Key practical suggestions for caregivers:

• Choose the bench seat: If fitting three car seats is a possibility, you must opt for the second-row three-person bench seat instead of the captain's chairs.
• Consider legroom logistics: Be aware that a rear-facing seat in the second row effectively eliminates third-row legroom directly behind it.
• Weigh trim level features: Lower trims with manual second-row seats may offer quicker third-row access than the power seats on higher trims like the GT-Line.

Ultimately, the EV9 is a capable and spacious electric SUV, but its family functionality is highly configuration-dependent. For families with more than two children in car seats, a thorough hands-on test with your actual seats is essential before making a final decision.