Is the Kia EV9's Third Row Actually Usable for Families?

The Kia EV9's third row is not just an afterthought; it's a genuinely usable space for children and even adults on shorter trips, making it a standout choice in the nascent three-row electric SUV market. Based on our assessment experience with a long-term 2024 Kia EV9 Land model, the third row provides sufficient headroom, legroom, and amenities for everyday family use, though its practicality is dependent on cooperative seating arrangements in the second row. This positions the EV9 as the first truly accessible three-row EV from a mainstream brand.

How Does the Kia EV9's Third Row Measure Up?

To understand the EV9's third-row capability, it's essential to compare its dimensions to key competitors. Unlike the cramped optional third row in a Tesla Model Y, the Kia EV9 offers dimensions that are surprisingly close to its gas-powered sibling, the well-regarded Kia Telluride.

The following table compares the critical third-row measurements:

These figures, provided by the manufacturers, show a significant size advantage for the EV9. The nearly 40 inches of headroom and over 32 inches of legroom (when the second-row seats are adjusted) create a cabin that can accommodate more than just small children.

How Do Kids Fit in the Kia EV9's Third Row?

The short answer is that kids fit exceptionally well. The space is designed with family needs in mind. Beyond sheer dimensions, Kia has included thoughtful amenities to keep rear passengers content, such as two dedicated cupholders, a USB charge port on each side, and overhead reading lights.

Our testing involved installing various child restraint systems:

• Forward-Facing Convertible Seat: Installation using the Latch anchors (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, a standardized system for securing child seats) was straightforward. However, the fixed head restraint caused the car seat to sit at a slight angle instead of flush against the seatback.
• High-Back Booster: The same fixed head restraint presented a similar issue, pushing the booster seat forward.
• Low-Back Booster: For older children, like our 10-year-old testers, low-back boosters worked perfectly. They reported plenty of headroom and legroom with only minor adjustment of the second-row seats.

Children who have outgrown boosters also fared well. A 5-foot-2-inch teenager fit comfortably and appreciated having a personal charge port. It's important to note the "sharing is caring" rule applies; placing a rear-facing car seat or a tall adult in the second row will quickly reduce the available legroom in the third row.

Is the Kia EV9's Third Row Suitable for Adults?

Adults can indeed fit in the EV9's third row, but access and comfort are best for shorter journeys. The step-in height is tall, and the opening created by sliding the second-row captain's chairs forward is somewhat narrow. A small walkway between the chairs is more suitable for children.

Once seated, however, space is adequate:

• A 5-foot-6-inch adult had sufficient headroom and legroom to remain comfortable on a longer drive.
• A 6-foot-tall adult also fit, with some space between his head and the headliner. With the second-row seat moved to a midway point, legroom was acceptable, though he had to position one foot inside the seat track and the other outside it for optimal comfort.

What Should Families Know Before Buying?

For families seeking an electric vehicle with legitimate three-row functionality, the Kia EV9 currently stands alone as the most practical non-luxury option. Its third row is designed for real-world use, not just occasional convenience.

Key takeaways for potential buyers:

• For Children: The third row is excellent for kids, with ample space and convenient features.
• For Adults: It's usable for average-sized adults on shorter to medium trips, provided second-row passengers are willing to compromise slightly on their legroom.
• Car Seat Consideration: Be mindful that fixed head restraints may not be ideal for certain forward-facing car seats or high-back boosters; low-back boosters are a better fit.
• Market Position: The EV9 successfully translates the spaciousness of a Telluride into an all-electric SUV platform, a significant achievement in today's market.

Ultimately, the Kia EV9 delivers on its promise of a usable third row, making it a compelling choice for larger families ready to transition to an all-electric lifestyle.