Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model 3: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Kia EV9⁩ VS ⁦Tesla Model 3⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦Kia EV9⁩ VS ⁦Tesla Model 3⁩: the verdict

The Tesla Model 3 emerges as the stronger contender for most buyers, offering superior performance, a longer electric range, and a significantly more attractive price point. However, for those prioritizing passenger capacity and a robust SUV presence, the Kia EV9 is the undisputed choice with its 6 or 7-seat configuration and spacious interior.
Other Years
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Price Comparison
Starting at390,000 SAR213,712 – 237,720 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine0 cc—
Horsepower (bhp)201 – 380 hp325 – 513 hp
Torque (Nm)350 – 700 Nm493 – 660 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.3 – 9.4 s3.3 – 6.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)185 – 200 km/h225 – 261 km/h
Gears11
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeElectricElectric
Battery Size76.1 – 99.8 kWh60 – 82 kWh
Battery Range (km)370 – 489 km491 – 602 km
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.1 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,310 – 2,580 kg1,745 – 1,928 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)572 L649 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSedan
Seating Capacity6 / 7 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Air ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACBlind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Handles - Body ColoredEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Rear OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHID HeadlightsHill AssistHill Descent ControlImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure WarningLeather SeatsLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomMoving Object Detection SystemMudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeMulti-Terrain SelectNavigation SystemNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear CameraRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSensorSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTouchscreen SizeTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Wheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCornering assistCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDVDEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHead-Up DisplayHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoad Sign AssistRoof RailsRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTowing HookTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Voice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Large Families

The Kia EV9 is the clear winner for larger families or those needing maximum passenger capacity, comfortably seating 6 or 7 passengers in its expansive SUV body.

2

Best for Performance & Range

For thrilling acceleration and extended journeys, the Tesla Model 3 takes the lead with its quicker 0-100 km/h time of 3.3 seconds and an impressive battery range of up to 602 km.

3

Best Value for Money

The Tesla Model 3 offers exceptional value, starting at a much lower price of 213,712 SAR, making advanced electric vehicle technology more accessible than the pricier Kia EV9.

4

Best for Cargo Versatility

Surprisingly, the Tesla Model 3 sedan offers a larger trunk capacity of 649 L compared to the Kia EV9's 572 L, making it better for diverse cargo needs despite its sedan form factor.

Pros & cons

Kia EV9

Pros

  • Available 6 or 7-seat capacity
  • Spacious SUV Crossover body style
  • Commanding road presence and higher ground clearance
  • Larger maximum battery capacity (99.8 kWh)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (390,000 SAR)
  • Slower acceleration (5.3 seconds minimum)
  • Shorter maximum battery range (489 km)
  • Lower top speed

Tesla Model 3

Pros

  • Much faster acceleration (3.3 seconds 0-100 km/h)
  • Superior maximum battery range (up to 602 km)
  • Significantly lower starting price (from 213,712 SAR)
  • Higher top speed (up to 261 km/h)
  • Larger trunk capacity (649 L)

Cons

  • Limited to 5-seat capacity
  • Sedan body style offers less vertical cargo room
  • Smaller overall dimensions compared to an SUV
  • Lower maximum battery capacity (82 kWh)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model 3 better for families?

For larger families requiring more passenger capacity, the Kia EV9 is superior, offering 6 or 7 seats compared to the Tesla Model 3's 5 seats. Its SUV body also provides a more spacious cabin. Choose the EV9 if passenger count and overall interior room are your top priorities.

Which car offers better performance, the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model 3?

The Tesla Model 3 clearly offers better performance. It boasts a quicker acceleration from 0-100 km/h in as little as 3.3 seconds and a higher top speed of 261 km/h, significantly outperforming the Kia EV9's 5.3 seconds and 200 km/h respectively.

Is the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model 3 more affordable in KSA?

The Tesla Model 3 is significantly more affordable, with a starting price of 213,712 SAR. The Kia EV9 starts at 390,000 SAR, making the Model 3 a much more budget-friendly option for entering the EV market.

Which has a longer battery range, the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model 3?

The Tesla Model 3 offers a longer maximum battery range, capable of traveling up to 602 km on a single charge. The Kia EV9's maximum range is 489 km, making the Model 3 the better choice for extended journeys with fewer charging stops.

Which vehicle has more trunk space, the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model 3?

Surprisingly, the Tesla Model 3 sedan provides more trunk space, with 649 liters. The larger Kia EV9 SUV has a trunk capacity of 572 liters. If absolute cargo volume is key, the Model 3 holds an unexpected advantage.