Toyota RAV4 vs Kia EV9

The 2024 Kia EV9 represented a bold evolution in Kia’s design philosophy. Unlike the sleek and aerodynamic shapes of the EV6, the EV9 showcased a blockier, more angular design, similar to the digits of a digital clock. The exterior was unmistakably Kia, but with a contemporary twist that distinguished it from prior models. Key body lines emphasized the octagonal wheel arches, and the rear window inclines sharply upward towards a roof spoiler, enhancing the vehicle’s modern aesthetics.

One of the most striking features was the "Star Map" daytime running lights, tracing a slim, intricate line from above the front fender to the grille, outlining the new “Digital Tiger Face.” The LED headlights varied between two dashes or 12 dots depending on the trim. Higher trims like the Land and GT-Line integrated the innovative Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, creating a constellation-like effect visible only when turned on. However, this unique feature wasn’t available with matte exterior colors which were an additional $995.

Complementing the blocky exterior were the wheels, ranging from aerodynamic 19-inch base wheels to 21-inch square-patterned wheels on the GT-Line.

Inside, the EV9 provided an airy and open environment, accentuated by its dual sunroofs and light gray two-tone interior. The front seats were eight-way power-adjustable, offering additional lumbar support in higher trims. The SynTex seating surfaces were comfortable, and the fabric lining in the chairbacks, door cards, and center console seemed durable enough for regular use.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a tougher exterior than it actually delivered. The aggressive front fascia, lower gray body cladding, and dual exhaust outlets suggested robust performance, which the vehicle didn’t entirely fulfill. Higher trims added fake front and rear skid plates, with some off-road-themed versions possessing more durable roof racks.

For our evaluation, we tested the TRD Off-Road model, beginning at a base price of $38,295 plus a $1,350 destination charge. Featuring Army Green color without any extra cost, our test model included a digital rearview mirror and additional technology and weather packages, totaling an MSRP of $41,925.

While the lower trim levels ranged from $28,675 to $38,295, hybrid variants offered more horsepower and better fuel efficiency for an additional $2,000-$3,000.

Inside, the RAV4 focused on practicality. It featured a full-width dashboard shelf, large door handles, rubberized storage spaces, and easy-to-clean surfaces. While devoid of luxury, higher trims offered upgraded interior finishes and functionalities.

The 2024 Kia EV9 showcased different performance configurations across its trim levels. The Light trim featured a single rear-wheel-drive (RWD) motor delivering 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated electric range of 230 miles. The Light Long Range model, incorporating a 99.8-kWh battery pack, dropped the output to 201 horsepower but extended the range to 304 miles.

The higher trims, Wind and Land, offered all-wheel drive (AWD) with dual motors producing 379 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 280-mile range. The performance-oriented GT-Line trimmed the range to 270 miles but increased torque to 516 lb-ft.

During our test in Napa Valley, driving the GT-Line trim, the EV9 provided a smooth, refined driving experience. Acceleration was effective yet subtle, avoiding the abrupt power delivery common in many electric vehicles. The handling was commendable, anchored by the vehicle’s weight, though some mild rocking in the suspension was noted on unfamiliar roads.

A significant feature was the adjustable regenerative braking system, operable via paddles on the steering wheel. When maximized, it enabled a one-pedal driving mode, enhancing the driving experience. Kia claimed the EV9's fast-charging capability could charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 25 minutes on a high-speed DC fast charger, though we didn’t test this ourselves.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 deployed a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 184 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. To tap into the engine’s power, one had to rev it quite hard. An eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with optional torque-vectoring AWD.

The TRD Off-Road trim came equipped with an exclusive off-road suspension, underbody skid plate, all-terrain tires, and Multi-Terrain Select modes, although the 8.6 inches of ground clearance didn’t improve over other models. Despite enhancements, we found the TRD Off-Road no match for serious off-roading, exemplified when we scraped the front fascia turning around on a rugged dirt berm.

This off-road suspension hence proved more beneficial for routine driving, absorbing road imperfections comfortably. While the RAV4's engine was powerful for its class, it felt loud and unrefined during aggressive driving. The vehicle scored a combined fuel economy of 28 mpg, with our test model averaging 26.6 mpg. For those concerned about fuel costs, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition offered a superior 37 mpg.

The 2024 Kia EV9's standout feature was its spacious third row, rare for all-electric vehicles. Offering 39.5 inches of headroom, it topped rivals such as the Kia Telluride, BMW X7, and Rivian R1S. Third-row legroom varied from 30.8 to 32 inches, depending on the middle row’s configuration. Unlike the eight-seater Telluride, the EV9 seated seven due to its two rear seats. The second-row provided ample comfort, featuring nicely contoured bolstering.

Cargo capacity began at 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.5 cubic feet with it folded down, and reaching 81.7 cubic feet with only the front seats upright. The relatively high and flat load floor made loading and unloading convenient.

Storage space up front was adequate but lacked abundant flat surfaces due to the “floating” center console design. The rear passengers in higher trims enjoyed added storage, such as a large drawer and tray table extending from the center console.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 emphasized practical utility over luxury. With various storage shelves, bins, oversized rubberized control knobs, and ample cargo space, it catered to activity-driven lifestyles. In TRD Off-Road trim, the seats were upholstered in SofTex artificial leather, and the driver’s seat was eight-way power adjustable. Optional packages added heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and other winter-ready features.

The RAV4 accommodated up to five passengers, providing decent rear-seat legroom and footroom. Rear air conditioning vents, USB charging ports, and a fold-down armrest with cupholders enhanced comfort.

Opening the power liftgate revealed 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which expanded to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. These figures made the RAV4 competitive for its segment.

The 2024 Kia EV9 took in-car technology to the next level with its triple-screen setup in a single curved display. A 12.3-inch driver information display was flanked by a 5-inch dedicated Climate Display and another 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Physical switches for tri-zone climate control were a practical touch. Standard tech features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Higher trims benefitted from a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Audio system, with the head-up display available on the GT-Line.

The EV9 offered extensive over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities, allowing owners to purchase additional features such as performance upgrades and lighting patterns from the Kia Connect store. This future-proofed the vehicle, enabling continuous customization and improvements over its lifespan.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4, though older, integrated the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system with standard 8-inch and optional 10.5-inch touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and five connected services plans.

Free for ten years, Safety Connect offered automatic collision notification, while Remote Connect allowed remote access features for one year. Drive Connect, complementary for a year, added cloud-based navigation, a digital voice assistant, and concierge services. Wi-Fi Connect transformed the RAV4 into an internet hotspot with a three-month free data plan.

Overall, while the infotainment system was sophisticated, the lack of a multi-panel Home screen, difficulty switching between Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM, and the hard-to-read daytime display were notable downsides. Additionally, the digital voice assistant faced occasional performance issues.

A JBL premium audio system was available, but our test vehicle didn’t have it. The standard sound system was decent but wouldn’t satisfy audiophiles.

The 2024 Kia EV9 came with a comprehensive suite of standard advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), similar to the Kia Telluride, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, and a robust array of collision avoidance features. However, certain premium features like Blind-spot View Monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance assist were reserved for the top trims.

While too new to have ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the EV9 earned the highest rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP).

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), a comprehensive ADAS suite, though the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring. In practice, the TSS 2.5 system was adequate but somewhat inconsistent, with lane-centering assist and adaptive cruise control showing room for improvement.

The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lesser ratings in the latest crash tests, reflecting the age of its engineering and design.