Beyond the Drive: 6 Onboard Features of the 2026 EV9 Designed for Passenger Bliss

The driver gets most of the attention in vehicle reviews, but what about everyone else? The 2026 Kia EV9 recognizes that passenger experience matters just as much as driving dynamics. From heated and air-cooled seating to premium audio systems, this three-row electric SUV delivers features that transform long journeys into relaxing experiences for every occupant.

Modern families spend significant time in their vehicles, whether commuting to work, driving to sports practices, or embarking on weekend adventures throughout Ontario. The EV9 addresses the reality that passengers need comfort, entertainment, and convenience features that work independently of the driving experience. Each feature serves a specific purpose: making every seat in the vehicle a place passengers actually want to spend time.

At a Glance: EV9 Passenger Comfort Features

Heated and Air-Cooled 2nd-Row Seating

The EV9's second-row seats provide the same climate control technology found in premium luxury vehicles. Both heating and air-cooling functions operate independently, allowing each passenger to set their preferred temperature regardless of front-seat preferences or exterior weather conditions. This dual-climate capability proves particularly valuable during Ontario's varied seasons, providing warmth during winter months and cooling relief during summer heat.

The system integrates with the vehicle's tri-zone automatic climate control, ensuring efficient operation without compromising overall cabin comfort. Second-row passengers control their seat temperature through dedicated controls, eliminating the need to ask the driver for adjustments during the journey.

• Individual heating and cooling for each 2nd-row seat
• Independent operation from front-seat climate controls
• Integrated with vehicle's main climate system
• Passenger-controlled temperature adjustment

2nd-Row Power Leg Rests for Extended Comfort

Long-distance travel often results in passenger fatigue and discomfort, particularly for those seated in the second row. The EV9's available power leg rests address this challenge by providing adjustable support that reduces leg strain and improves circulation during extended journeys. These electrically adjustable rests extend and retract at the touch of a button, allowing passengers to find their optimal comfort position.

The leg rests work in conjunction with the reclining 2nd-row seats, creating a near-lounge experience for passengers. This combination proves especially valuable for families traveling to cottage destinations or long-distance trips where passenger comfort directly impacts the overall travel experience.

Tri-Zone Climate Control Precision

The EV9's tri-zone automatic climate control system ensures every area of the cabin maintains its optimal temperature. The driver, front passenger, and rear passengers can each set independent temperature preferences through intuitive controls. This system eliminates the common compromise where some passengers feel too warm while others remain cold.

The system includes roof-mounted rear HVAC vents that provide direct airflow to third-row passengers, ensuring consistent climate control throughout the cabin. The positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater provides efficient heating without impacting the vehicle's electric range, maintaining comfort while preserving driving distance.

• Independent temperature control for three cabin zones
• Roof-mounted vents for third-row climate distribution
• Energy-efficient PTC heating system
• Automatic defog system for optimal visibility

14-Speaker Meridian Premium Audio Experience

The available 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system transforms the EV9's cabin into a mobile concert hall. This professionally tuned system distributes sound evenly throughout all three rows, ensuring every passenger enjoys the same audio quality regardless of seating position. The system includes dedicated speakers for different frequency ranges, providing clear vocals, rich bass, and detailed instrumental separation.

The audio system integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's infotainment interface, supporting multiple input sources including Bluetooth streaming, SiriusXM satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's sophisticated processing ensures optimal sound quality whether passengers prefer podcasts, music, or audiobooks during their journey.

Comprehensive Device Charging Infrastructure

The EV9 addresses the reality of modern connectivity needs through six fast-charging USB ports distributed across all three rows. This configuration ensures every passenger can keep their smartphone, tablet, or gaming device charged throughout the journey without competing for limited charging points. The ports provide rapid charging capability, minimizing the time devices need to remain connected.

Additional charging options include the wireless phone charger located in the front console and 12V power outlets in both cabin and cargo areas. This charging infrastructure eliminates the anxiety of depleted device batteries during long trips, particularly important for families with multiple connected devices.

• Six fast-charging USB ports (two per row)
• Wireless phone charging pad for front passengers
• 12V power outlets in cabin and cargo areas
• Rapid charging capability for quick device power-up

Reclining Relaxation Seats for Rest Stops

The EV9's second-row relaxation seats transform rest stops into genuine relaxation opportunities. These seats recline significantly beyond typical automotive seating, allowing passengers to achieve a near-horizontal position for rest or relaxation. The feature proves particularly valuable during long road trips where passengers need to stretch out and recover between driving segments.

The relaxation function operates independently for each second-row seat, ensuring one passenger's rest doesn't affect the other's preferred seating position. Wing-out headrests provide additional support when seats are reclined, maintaining comfort and proper neck alignment during rest periods.

Passenger Experience Comparison

Experience the EV9 at Lindsay Kia

Want to see how the EV9 keeps everyone happy during family road trips? Visit Lindsay Kia in South Lindsay and take a closer look at the features that make passengers feel like VIPs in every seat.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia EV9, visit Kia.ca