How Does the Kia EV9 Perform in Snow and Winter Conditions?

The Kia EV9 handles reasonably well in winter conditions but requires specific adjustments to its regenerative braking system and benefits significantly from upgraded tires for optimal snow and ice traction, according to professional driver assessments. While its all-wheel-drive system provides confident acceleration, the factory-installed all-season tires and aggressive regenerative braking settings present challenges on slippery surfaces.

How Should You Adjust the EV9's Regenerative Braking for Snow?

Most electric vehicles feature a regenerative-braking system—a technology that uses the electric motor to slow the vehicle and recover energy when the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal. The EV9 offers multiple settings, including an i-Pedal one-pedal driving mode that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop without using the brake pedal.

However, on snowy or icy roads, this strong, immediate regenerative braking can unsettle the vehicle's stability. Professional test drivers recommend reducing the regenerative braking to Level 1 (which provides mild braking) or turning it off completely to allow the vehicle to coast. This adjustment makes the SUV significantly easier and safer to control in low-traction scenarios. Using the dedicated Snow driving mode is also advised, as it automatically optimizes various vehicle systems for slippery conditions and caps the regenerative braking to Level 1.

Are the EV9's Factory Tires Suitable for Winter Driving?

The factory-installed P275/50R20 Kumho Crugen EV tires—which carry a mud- and snow-rated (M+S) designation—were found lacking in snow braking traction during testing. While the EV9's all-wheel drive (AWD) and substantial curb weight ensure good forward acceleration, testers reported a lack of confidence when braking on ice and snow-covered surfaces.

For drivers in regions with frequent winter weather, investing in a set of dedicated winter tires is highly recommended. Alternatively, an all-season tire with superior snow performance (such as those with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol) would provide a significant safety upgrade over the standard tires. The right tires are crucial for maximizing the capability of the vehicle's advanced traction control systems.

What Other Winter Considerations Are There for EV9 Owners?

A common issue for any modern vehicle in winter is the buildup of road grime, snow, and ice on external sensors. During testing, the EV9's forward-facing sensors became blocked during highway driving in wintry conditions, triggering multiple warnings in the instrument panel. Maintaining clear sensors is essential for the proper function of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance.

Overall, the Kia EV9 is a competent three-row family SUV for winter, but achieving its best performance requires owner awareness. Key recommendations for safe winter operation include: adjusting the regenerative braking setting, considering tire upgrades, and keeping sensors clean. For those facing regular severe winter conditions, these adjustments are not just improvements—they are critical for safety.