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

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

⁦Kia EV9⁩ VS ⁦Tesla Model Y⁩: the verdict

The Tesla Model Y emerges as the overall winner for shoppers prioritizing performance, range, and exceptional value in KSA. While the Kia EV9 commands a higher price, it stands out as the superior choice for larger families needing genuine three-row seating and a more spacious cabin.
Other Years
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Price Comparison
Starting at390,000 SAR199,990 – 229,990 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine0 cc—
Horsepower (bhp)201 – 380 hp299 – 513 hp
Torque (Nm)350 – 700 Nm350 – 493 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.8 s4.8 – 5.9 s
Top Speed (Km/h)185 – 200 km/h201 km/h
Gears11
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeElectricElectric
Battery Size76.1 – 99.8 kWh62.5 – 78.4 kWh
Battery Range (km)370 – 489 km500 – 622 km
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m4.8 m × 1.9 m × 1.6 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.1 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,310 – 2,580 kg1,901 – 1,997 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)572 L822 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity6 / 7 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors5 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 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Air ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAuto Door LockAUX InputBlind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBody KItBumper Side StepCassette PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlCollision DetectionCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor ReflectorsDVDDVD PlayerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFront BrakesFront CameraGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHill AssistImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off Road KItOff-Road DampersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPrivacy GlassPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC ControlsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CameraRear Lcd screensRemote StartRemote Windows DownRun Flat TiresSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsToolkitTouchscreenTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Large Families

The Kia EV9 is the clear winner for families requiring more seating, offering a comfortable 6 or 7-seat configuration that the Model Y cannot match.

2

Best for Performance & Range

The Tesla Model Y takes the lead with its superior acceleration of 4.8 seconds and a longer battery range of up to 622 km, making it ideal for spirited driving and longer journeys.

3

Best Value

With a starting price significantly lower than the EV9, the Tesla Model Y offers outstanding value for an electric SUV, making it more accessible to a wider range of buyers.

4

Best for Cargo Space

For those needing maximum hauling capability, the Tesla Model Y provides a considerably larger trunk capacity of 822 L compared to the EV9's 572 L.

Pros & cons

Kia EV9

Pros

  • Genuine 6 or 7-seat capacity
  • More spacious and commanding exterior presence
  • Higher maximum torque output (700 Nm)

Cons

  • Higher starting price
  • Slower acceleration (7.8 seconds)
  • Shorter maximum battery range
  • Smaller trunk capacity

Tesla Model Y

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable starting price
  • Superior acceleration (4.8 seconds)
  • Longer maximum battery range (up to 622 km)
  • Larger cargo capacity (822 L)
  • Higher top speed (201 km/h)

Cons

  • Limited to 5-seat configuration
  • Smaller overall dimensions and less imposing stance
  • Lower maximum torque output

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model Y better for families in KSA?

For families in KSA, the Kia EV9 is definitively better as it offers a 6 or 7-seat configuration, providing ample space for larger families. In contrast, the Tesla Model Y is limited to 5 seats. If you need to transport more than five passengers regularly, the EV9 is the practical choice.

Which electric SUV offers better performance, the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model Y?

The Tesla Model Y offers superior performance, boasting an acceleration of 4.8 seconds and a higher maximum power output of 513 hp. The Kia EV9, while capable, has a slower acceleration of 7.8 seconds and a maximum of 380 hp. For those seeking a more exhilarating drive, the Model Y is the clear winner.

How do the prices of the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model Y compare in Saudi Arabia?

The Tesla Model Y is significantly more affordable in Saudi Arabia, with prices ranging from 199,990 to 229,990 SAR. The Kia EV9 starts at a higher price point of 390,000 SAR. If budget is a primary concern, the Model Y offers considerably better value.

Which has a longer range, Kia EV9 or Tesla Model Y?

The Tesla Model Y offers a longer maximum battery range, capable of traveling between 500 and 622 km on a single charge. The Kia EV9 has a range of 370 to 489 km. For extended journeys and less frequent charging, the Model Y is the more suitable option.

Which has more cargo space, the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model Y?

The Tesla Model Y provides more cargo space with an impressive 822 liters of trunk capacity. The Kia EV9, despite its larger overall size, offers 572 liters. If you frequently carry large items or a lot of luggage, the Model Y will accommodate your needs better.