Head to head
Rivian R1S vs Kia EV9
The Rivian R1S and the Kia EV9 GT-Line are two of the most cross-shopped electric suv choices on the market. The R1S (2026) starts at $78,885 with 358 mi of range and a 135 kWh pack; the EV9 GT-Line (2023) starts at $83,607 with 264 mi and a 99.8 kWh pack.
The price gap of $4,722 is the single biggest practical difference between them. On range, Rivian R1S holds a 36% advantage. The comparison below is generated from Eldrivo's verified specification database and updates whenever the underlying figures change — price in USD, EPA-style range, battery capacity, DC charging peak, 0–60 mph acceleration and Euro NCAP safety scores, side by side.
Category by category
Who wins where
Rivian R1S travels 358 mi against 264 mi for Kia EV9 GT-Line — roughly 36% further per charge.
Rivian R1S starts at $78,885, undercutting Kia EV9 GT-Line at $83,607 by $4,722.
Rivian R1S reaches 60 mph in 3s versus 5.3s for Kia EV9 GT-Line, helped by 835 hp.
Kia EV9 GT-Line peaks at 209 kW on a DC fast charger against 200 kW for Rivian R1S, adding 10–80% in about 24 minutes.
Kia EV9 GT-Line uses 226 Wh per mile compared with 250 Wh for Rivian R1S, which translates directly into lower charging costs.
Technical data
Full specifications side by side
| Spec | Rivian R1S | Kia EV9 GT-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $78,885 | $83,607 |
| Range | 358 mi | 264 mi |
| Battery | 135 kWh | 99.8 kWh |
| 0-60 mph | 3s | 5.3s |
| Power | 835 hp | 385 hp |
| DC charging peak | 200 kW | 209 kW |
| 10–80% charge | 40 min | 24 min |
| Efficiency | 250 Wh/mi | 226 Wh/mi |
| Body type | SUV | SUV |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Towing | 7,500 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
| Euro NCAP | Not tested | 5/5 stars |
The short answer
Which one should you buy?
Choose the Rivian R1S if…
- you want the lower entry price
- long-distance range matters most
- you prioritise straight-line performance
- you need the higher tow rating
Choose the Kia EV9 GT-Line if…
- fast road-trip charging is a priority
- you want the lowest running cost per mile
Common questions
Rivian R1S vs Kia EV9: FAQ
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