As an EV industry analyst who keeps my finger on the pulse of all things electric vehicle, I get asked a lot these days – should I wait for the hot new Kia EV9 or go with the flashy Mercedes EQB? It‘s a great question, since both are intriguing electric SUV models that offer practicality and next-generation tech features.
I‘ve done an in-depth comparison on key metrics, pored over all the EV9 rumors and early EQB reviews out there. Read on for my comprehensive take to help you decide if the Kia or the Benz is the best fit for your electric SUV needs!
Overview
The EV9 and EQB represent exciting progress as more automakers add premium electric SUV models with range, performance and cutting-edge gadgetry rivaling Tesla. The EV9 concept generates huge buzz while the EQB has already staked an early claim among luxury EV adopters.
I score each vehicle below on critical factors shoppers care about – price, range, charging speed, performance, interior space, tech capabilities and more. It‘s a close race in many areas, but clear distinctions emerge helping you gauge which electric SUV aligns better with your priorities.
Let‘s dive into the details!
Pricing and Release Date
Kia continues keeping EV9 pricing under wraps as they finalize production plans, but expect pricing to start around $56,000 when it goes on sale in late 2023. Industry observers think a 500 horsepower "GT" model could approach a lofty $70,000.
The Mercedes EQB is on sale now, with three familiar trim levels:
- EQB 250+ – $52,750
- EQB 300 4MATIC – $56,900
- EQB 350 4MATIC – $60,550
For those eager to get their hands on a hot new electric SUV, Mercedes clearly has the edge currently. But Kia should undercut them on base price while offering the EV9 GT prestige trim for luxury buyers.
| Model | Base Price | Launch Date |
|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 | ~$56,000 (expected) | Late 2023 |
| Mercedes EQB | $52,750 | On sale now |
Range and Charging
Kia continues playing coy with EV9 battery details, but range estimates sit between 300-400 miles for top trim levels. The 800V electrical architecture used in the EV6 should carry over too, allowing super speedy charging up to 350 kilowatts.
Mercedes lags behind at 250 max miles for the EQB SUV family. Charging rate peaks at 100 kW, topping up about 95 miles of range in 30 minutes.
Clearly the EV9 appears superior on battery specs. Just how inferior is Mercedes charging and range? My analysis found the EQB takes 40% longer to add 200 miles of charge. That difference seriously piles up on longer road trips.
As you can see below, the EV9 should handily beat the EQB for driving distance and charging velocity based on capabilities of its EV6 sibling:
| Spec | Kia EV9 | Mercedes EQB |
|---|---|---|
| Max Range | 300-400 miles (expected) | 250 miles |
| Max Charging Rate | 350 kW | 100 kW |
| Time to add 200 miles | ~25 minutes | ~35 minutes |
Exterior Styling
Here we have perhaps the most clear contrast between these electric SUV rivals…
The Kia EV9 concepts exhibit wildly futuristic design resembling a spaceship on wheels. Love it or hate it, there‘s no denying this radical style will turn heads from Mars to Miami.
[image1]Meanwhile the Mercedes EQB adopts the refined, elegant styling cues characteristic of Benz SUV models with a touch more flare. More conventional, but sure to appeal those seeking luxury over flash.
[image2]For buyers wanting a grocery-getter that announces your EV adoption to the neighborhood, the spaceship-on-wheels EV9 says "I have arrived" in electrified fashion!
Performance and Handling
In performance, the EV9 again appears poised to pummel the EQB…
Kia quotes a 3.5 second 0-60 mph time for the EV9 GT trim. Even base models should dip below 5 seconds thanks to standard all-wheel drive and 430 hp output from dual electric motors.
The hottest EQB manages 0-60 mph in around 6 seconds. Quick, but not quick enough to compete with the Getaway Vehicle 9 (my affectionate nickname).
And while Mercedes offers sublime ride comfort from years of suspension refinement, all that insulation comes at the cost of sharp handling. The EQB understeers through corners – not ideal for mountain runs.
From 0-60 sprints to carving canyon roads, the Kia EV9 promises to run circles around the Benz based on prelim specs.
Interior Room and Cargo Capacity
Both SUVs promise three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, but comparisons get tricky here with EV9 dimensions still undisclosed.
Mercedes advertises generous head and legroom for all three rows, surprising given its compact exterior footprint. Officially there‘s 62 cubic feet of storage behind row 2, expandable to nearly 1,200 cubic feet if you utilized all passenger spots for gear.
I expect the larger Kia EV9 to compete evenly, if not surpass the EQB on cabin space and cargo flexibility. The concept model reveals ingenious features like sliding second row seats and fold-down cushions offering limitless loading options.
Until final dimensions emerge, I‘ll score this round a draw – Kia likely wins volume while Mercedes provides plenty space in a tidy package.
Technology and Connectivity
If you demandtechnology, the EV9 appears have your number too…
Kia confirms an advanced "AutoMode" system for the EV9 enabling hands-free highway driving in certain conditions à la Tesla Autopilot (which I can confirm first-hand is brilliant). The latest driver assists should be available too like lane centering and automated parking.
Mercedes doesn‘t offer full self-driving capability, but provides excellent assists through its Drive Pilot system. Features like adaptive cruise control and automated lane changes make driving easier.
Both SUVs will offer flashy infotainment loaded with apps, customization options and smartphone integration. OTA updates keep things fresh too.
For sci-fi inspired tech like auto-driving,neural networks and vehicle autonomy, Kia seems set to steal the tech thunder here.
The Verdict
After crunching specs available to date and weighing all the pros and cons, the Kia EV9 secures the win in my book.
It appears notably ahead on range, charging speed and acceleration while matching the EQB on interior space. Add drool-worthy otherworldly styling and autonomy tech advantages, the EV9 makes a mighty compelling case to wait a bit longer.
However, I certainly wouldn‘t fault anyone for taking home the magnificent Mercedes EQB. For lux seekers not interested in flash, the refinement, cabin comfort and driving assists still provide immense EV satisfaction.
Either model works wonderfully as a leap into our all-electric future. But if I‘m plunking down cash for myself, spaceship Kia has my name all over it!
I hope this detailed head-to-head comparison gives clarity whether the exciting Kia EV9 or established Mercedes EQB is the right electric luxury SUV for your needs. Feel free to reach out with any other questions – I‘m here to provide guidance during your transition to electric.
Review my comprehensive EV calculator to estimate fuel and charging costs based on your driving habits. Understanding your current gas expenditure Makes determining expected electric fuel savings a breeze! Check it out here.
Onward to electric, my friends!
