The 2026 Kia EV9 brings electric performance and advanced technology to Ontario families. This three-row electric SUV combines practical space with features that enhance daily driving—from the moment you approach the vehicle to every trip through Niagara Falls and beyond.
Here are seven standout tech features that make the EV9 a strong choice for Canadian drivers.
1. Digital Pattern Lighting Grille
The Digital Pattern Lighting Grille transforms the EV9's front fascia into a dynamic light display. Available on Land with Plus Package and higher trims, this feature replaces traditional grille elements with programmable LED patterns that illuminate when you unlock the vehicle or approach with your Digital Key.
The GT trim includes an exclusive lighting pattern that matches its performance-focused character. Through Kia's Features on Demand, you can purchase additional lighting patterns over-the-air, customizing your EV9's appearance without visiting a service centre.
The lighting grille serves as a visual greeting system that activates automatically, making your EV9 instantly recognizable in parking lots and residential streets across Niagara Falls.
2. Kia Digital Key 2.0 with Touch Access
Leave your key fob at home. The EV9 includes Kia Digital Key 2.0 across all trims, allowing you to unlock, start, and drive using your compatible smartphone or smartwatch.
The system supports remote key sharing with family and friends, with full control over access levels. You decide whether someone gets full driving privileges or limited access for specific times—useful for teenage drivers or visiting relatives.
Approach the door handle with your phone in your pocket, and the EV9 unlocks automatically. Press the start button, and you're ready to drive. The system works through your device's secure element, providing the same reliability as a traditional key fob.
3. Dual 12.3-Inch Display System with Kia Connect
Every EV9 features dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the driver's instrument cluster, one for the infotainment system. The seamless display integrates navigation, vehicle settings, and entertainment controls in a clean, modern layout.
Kia Connect comes standard with three years of complimentary service, providing:
- Remote Climate Control: Pre-cool or pre-heat your EV9 from your smartphone before leaving home
- Remote Door Lock/Unlock: Verify your vehicle's security from anywhere
- Charging Management: Start, stop, or schedule charging sessions remotely
- Find My Car: Locate your EV9 in crowded parking areas
- Charging Station Locator: Find nearby charging stations with real-time availability
The system sends automatic notifications when charging is complete or if your battery is running low, eliminating range anxiety for daily commutes between Niagara Falls and surrounding Ontario communities.
4. Surround View Monitor with Blind-View Monitor
Available on Land with Premium Package and higher trims, the Surround View Monitor provides a 360-degree bird's-eye view of your EV9's surroundings. Four cameras positioned around the vehicle create a composite image displayed on the centre screen, making tight parking situations and narrow driveways significantly easier to navigate.
The Blind-View Monitor adds another layer of awareness. When you activate your turn signal, a live camera feed from the corresponding side of the vehicle appears in your instrument cluster, showing your blind spot in real time. This proves particularly useful on Highway 420 or when merging onto the QEW, where traffic moves quickly and visibility matters.
Together, these systems provide comprehensive awareness of your surroundings—front, rear, and sides—reducing stress in parking lots and heavy traffic.
5. Remote Smart Parking Assist 2
The GT-Line trim includes Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 as standard equipment (available as a Features on Demand purchase on Land with Premium Package). This system allows your EV9 to park itself while you stand outside the vehicle, using the smart key to control the process.
The technology works in both parallel and perpendicular parking scenarios. Stand outside, hold the button on your smart key, and watch as your EV9 manoeuvres into the space autonomously. The system uses ultrasonic sensors and cameras to detect obstacles and calculate the optimal parking path.
This feature works well in tight parking garages or narrow spaces where opening your door fully would be difficult. Let the EV9 handle the parking while you step out comfortably.
6. Head-Up Display with Navigation Integration

The GT-Line and GT trims include a full-colour Head-Up Display that projects critical driving information onto the windshield directly in your line of sight. Speed, navigation directions, safety alerts, and Highway Driving Assist 2 status appear without requiring you to look away from the road.
The system adjusts automatically for different driver heights and ambient lighting conditions. Navigation arrows appear where you need them, making turns and lane changes easier to execute. Safety warnings from the EV9's advanced driver assistance systems also display prominently, ensuring you never miss critical alerts.
For longer drives across Ontario, the Head-Up Display reduces eye movement and helps maintain focus on the road ahead.
7. Vehicle-to-Load Power Outlets
Available on Land with Premium Package and higher trims, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology transforms your EV9 into a mobile power source. The 99.8 kWh battery can supply household power through dedicated outlets.
One V2L outlet is located inside the cabin, another under the rear bumper. Plug in power tools, camping equipment, tailgating appliances, or emergency backup devices directly into your EV9. During power outages—not uncommon during Ontario winters—your EV9 can power essential household items for extended periods.
The system includes overload protection and automatic shutoff to preserve enough battery capacity for driving. You can monitor power usage and remaining battery capacity through the centre display or Kia Connect app, managing your energy consumption intelligently.
Comparing EV9 Tech Across Trims
|
Feature
|
Light RWD
|
Wind RWD
|
Land AWD
|
Land + Plus
|
Land + Premium
|
GT-Line
|
GT
|
|
Dual 12.3" Displays
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Kia Connect
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Digital Key 2.0
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Digital Lighting Grille
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Surround View Monitor
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Blind-View Monitor
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Vehicle-to-Load
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
✓
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
Head-Up Display
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
✓
|
✓
|
|
RSPA 2 (Standard)
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
✓
|
✓
|
Your 2026 Kia EV9 Awaits at Cardinal Kia
The 2026 EV9 delivers technology that enhances every aspect of ownership—from the first approach with Digital Key to the practical utility of Vehicle-to-Load power. These features solve real problems for Ontario families who need space, capability, and modern convenience.
From the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille's visual impact to the practical benefits of Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, the EV9 offers technology that works in your daily life. Contact our team at Cardinal Kia in Niagara Falls to experience these features and discover which EV9 trim matches your needs.
To learn more about the 2026 Kia EV9, visit Kia.ca