The Kia EV9 is a full-size, three-row electric SUV produced from the 2024 model year onward. It is offered in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations across multiple trim levels, with battery capacities ranging from 76.1 kWh to 99.8 kWh.
This guide covers towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight limits, and hitch requirements for each powertrain option. Staying within manufacturer-rated towing limits is essential for protecting the drivetrain, battery thermal systems, and braking performance of any electric vehicle.
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2026 Kia EV9 Towing Capacity
The 2026 model year introduces the EV9 GT, a high-performance variant that adds 501 horsepower alongside the retained standard AWD lineup. All other trims continue with the dual-motor 379 hp AWD or the single-motor RWD configurations.
Standard and GT-Line AWD Trims (2026)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Motor Configuration | Single-motor RWD (76.1 kWh or 99.8 kWh); Dual-motor AWD (99.8 kWh) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / e-AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – AWD with Tow Package |
| RWD Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| Conventional / Non-Braked Trailer Limit | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,336 lbs (606 kg) – AWD variants |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,187 lbs (3,260 kg) – AWD |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional on AWD trims (includes self-leveling rear suspension) |
2026 GT (High-Performance) Trim
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Motor Configuration | Dual-motor e-AWD, 99.8 kWh |
| Horsepower / Torque | 501 hp / 546 lb-ft (740 Nm) |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2026 Kia EV9 AWD offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when equipped with the optional tow package and a braked trailer. The new 2026 GT trim delivers 501 horsepower with AWD, maintaining the same 5,000 lb trailer weight ceiling as the GT-Line and Land trims. RWD variants, regardless of battery size, are limited to 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
2025 Kia EV9 Towing Capacity
The 2025 Kia EV9 carries over the same powertrain options and towing ratings established with the 2024 launch. Trims include the Light RWD Standard Range, Light Long Range RWD, Wind e-AWD, Land e-AWD, and GT-Line e-AWD.
| Specification | RWD Trims | AWD Trims (No Tow Pkg) | AWD Trims (With Tow Pkg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Configuration | Single-motor, 76.1 or 99.8 kWh | Dual-motor, 99.8 kWh | Dual-motor, 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | RWD | e-AWD | e-AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Non-Braked Trailer Limit | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A (not published) | Approx. 1,336 lbs (606 kg) | Approx. 1,336 lbs (606 kg) |
| GVWR | N/A (not published) | 7,187 lbs (3,260 kg) | 7,187 lbs (3,260 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs (91 kg) | 350 lbs (159 kg) | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) | Class III (2-inch receiver) | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available | Optional | Optional |
The 2025 Kia EV9 reaches its maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) only on AWD trims fitted with the optional tow package, which includes self-leveling rear suspension. Without the tow package, AWD models are rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). RWD variants, regardless of battery configuration, are limited to 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
2024 Kia EV9 Towing Capacity
The 2024 model year was the first for the EV9 in the North American market, offered in four trims: Light RWD, Light Long Range RWD, Wind e-AWD, Land e-AWD, and GT-Line e-AWD. Towing specifications follow the same pattern as subsequent model years.
| Specification | RWD Trims | AWD Trims (No Tow Pkg) | AWD Trims (With Tow Pkg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Configuration | Single-motor, 76.1 or 99.8 kWh | Dual-motor, 99.8 kWh | Dual-motor, 99.8 kWh |
| Drivetrain | RWD | e-AWD | e-AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Non-Braked Trailer Limit | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A (not published) | Approx. 1,336 lbs (606 kg) | Approx. 1,336 lbs (606 kg) |
| GVWR | N/A (not published) | 7,187 lbs (3,260 kg) | 7,187 lbs (3,260 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 200 lbs (91 kg) | 350 lbs (159 kg) | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) | Class III (2-inch receiver) | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Not available | Optional | Optional |
The 2024 Kia EV9 Land AWD with the optional tow package delivers the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when the trailer is equipped with its own braking system. The non-braked trailer limit of 1,653 lbs (750 kg) applies universally across all 2024 trims and must not be exceeded without a trailer brake controller installed. The Class III 2-inch receiver hitch is rated at 5,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 500 lbs tongue weight per SAE J684 standards.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is required to reach the rated limits of the Kia EV9. Using incorrect or undersized gear reduces towing safety and increases the risk of sway, brake fade, and suspension overload.
Tow Package
The factory tow package is only available on AWD trims and includes a self-leveling rear suspension system. Without this package, AWD models are limited to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). Installing a factory tow package is mandatory to unlock the full 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) rating.
Trailer Brake Controller
The EV9’s maximum 5,000 lb capacity requires a trailer equipped with electric brakes. A brake controller must be installed inside the vehicle to activate the trailer’s braking system. Compatible units include the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 with the EV9-specific harness. Without a brake controller and braked trailer, the legal and safe limit drops to 1,653 lbs (750 kg).
Hitch Class and Receiver Size
The EV9 uses a Class III hitch with a 2-inch receiver opening. This receiver accepts standard ball mounts and hitch accessories rated to the vehicle’s limit. Third-party hitches must meet SAE J684 and match the 5,000 lb gross trailer weight and 500 lb tongue weight ratings.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is compatible with the EV9’s 2-inch receiver. This type of hitch redistributes tongue weight across the trailer axles, reducing nose dive and improving steering stability, particularly at or near the maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs (227 kg).
Tire Load Ratings
Tires must be rated to support the loaded vehicle weight, including passenger, cargo, and tongue weight. Refer to the tire placard on the door jamb for the correct inflation pressure under load.
Trailer Sway Control
The EV9 includes stability assist systems that help manage trailer sway. Aftermarket trailer sway control bars offer additional passive sway management for heavier loads near the rated limit.
Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Light Towing (under 2,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (3,500-5,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Trailer Brakes Required | No | Yes |
| Brake Controller | Not required | Required |
| Tow Package | Not required | Required (AWD only) |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not required | Recommended |
| Tongue Weight Management | Standard | Critical (500 lb max) |
| Range Impact | Moderate (30-40% reduction) | Significant (40-55% reduction) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Kia EV9?
The maximum towing capacity of the Kia EV9 is 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). This rating applies to AWD trims equipped with the factory tow package and a braked trailer. RWD trims are limited to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) regardless of tow equipment.
How much can a Kia EV9 tow with the tow package?
With the factory tow package installed on AWD trims, the Kia EV9 can tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). The tow package includes self-leveling rear suspension and is required to reach this maximum rating. Without it, AWD models are rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).
Does drivetrain affect Kia EV9 towing capacity?
Yes, drivetrain configuration has a direct impact on towing capacity. AWD models can tow between 3,500 and 5,000 lbs depending on whether the tow package is fitted. RWD models are rated at 2,000 lbs (907 kg) and are not eligible for the factory tow package.
What trailer weight is safe for a Kia EV9 without trailer brakes?
The maximum safe trailer weight without trailer brakes is 1,653 lbs (750 kg) for all EV9 configurations. This non-braked trailer limit applies universally across all trims and model years. Exceeding this limit without a functioning brake controller is both unsafe and outside manufacturer specifications.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Kia EV9?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for light to moderate loads, but it is recommended when tongue weight approaches the 500 lb (227 kg) maximum. The EV9’s 2-inch receiver is compatible with weight-distributing hitch systems. Using one at higher tongue weights improves front axle load distribution and steering control.
What hitch class does the Kia EV9 use?
The Kia EV9 uses a Class III trailer hitch with a 2-inch receiver tube. This hitch class is rated to 5,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 500 lbs tongue weight when meeting SAE J684 standards. Both OEM and certified aftermarket hitches are available for 2024 through 2026 model years.
Conclusion
The Kia EV9 towing capacity ranges from 2,000 lbs (907 kg) on RWD trims to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on AWD trims properly equipped with the factory tow package and a braked trailer. This range has been consistent across all model years from 2024 through 2026. The 2026 GT variant maintains the 5,000 lb maximum while delivering substantially higher horsepower, but does not raise the towing ceiling above other AWD trims.
Configuration is the primary factor determining towing capacity. Drivetrain, tow package availability, and trailer brake equipment each directly affect the legal and safe trailer weight limit. No RWD variant, regardless of battery size or trim level, can reach the 5,000 lb maximum.
Always verify specifications using the vehicle owner’s manual and the door placard before towing heavy loads, as individual vehicle GVWR and payload limits affect the maximum safe trailer weight for a specific configuration.
