Invisible in France, the KIA EV9 seems to lower its LLD

The large 100% electric SUV KIA EV9, with discreet sales in France, achieves the feat of a cheaper and less attractive long-term lease…

After the initial surprise of its launch, the KIA EV9 hits hard on the ground in Europe. With its XXL dimensions and thus out of step with the needs of the Old Continent where streets and parking spaces are narrow, the South Korean electric SUV also features a very high purchase price. Over 73,000 euros for the entry-level version boasting 204 horsepower to move 2.5 tons, it’s weak.

When you add to this the lack of brand recognition and thus the severe depreciation value upon resale, it becomes clear why customers are not rushing to make a cash purchase. Therefore, everything hinges on leasing offers. And this is where KIA is playing a nasty trick on its potential customers.

Truly cheaper rents?

At its launch, the KIA EV9 immediately offered a surprising long-term lease (LLD) in terms of duration and mileage: 49 months and 60,000 kilometers. That’s 14,693 km per year, comfortable for a bit of family travel. Moreover, the selling point in the absence of an ecological bonus was the lack of down payment. The 49 rents had the same price of 1,007 euros, totaling 49,343 euros… or 0.822 euros per kilometer traveled! Keep these figures in mind.

In this February 2025, KIA adjusts its strategy and lowers the rents for its EV9 starting at 877 euros per month… but with a first payment of 7,000 euros and a total mileage of 40,000 kilometers. At first glance, one might think that the rents are decreasing by 130 euros/month, a bargain. Then you pull out the calculator…

With 48 rents at 877 euros + a first at 7,000 euros, the total rental bill reaches 49,096 euros, which is a difference of 247 euros. But also a reduction of 20,000 kilometers in the distance driven! As a result, the cost per kilometer rises to 1.227 euros.

In other words, the mind perceives a price decrease for the EV9 when in fact it’s the opposite with a 49.2% increase in the bill! KIA currently has a strange way of doing business.

ALSO READ: Prices and availability of the new Tesla Model Y in France