The Kia all-electric flagship SUV, the EV9, was the focus point. The vehicle went to sweep the highly competitive prize in the “2024-2025 Electric SUV of Texas” category at the 2024 Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Truck Rodeo, marking its first event showcasing this highly competitive excellence with this kind of assessment from such a rigorous program for high-tier vehicles.
A Competitive Showcase of Excellence
The annual TAWA Truck Rodeo hosted over 40 of the industry’s most respected journalists who assessed and reviewed 28 of the best that the auto industry has to offer- trucks and EVs, SUVs and CUVs alike. More than 260 laps around specially prepared off-road and street courses were where these vehicles will be put to the test. In this assessment, each of the entries had been given a rating across key dimensions such as design, performance, interior, range, and driving.
The Kia EV9 was the winner, with judges praising its innovative design, spacious interior, advanced technology, and great driving performance. Its ability to bring family-friendly utility together with cutting-edge electric mobility made it a favorite among TAWA members.
Kia’s Victory in the Truck Rodeo
Speaking about the EV9’s recognition, Steven Center, COO and EVP of Kia America, expressed the brand’s pride in the accolade.
“Kia has a long history with TAWA, and we’re thrilled that the EV9 has been named ‘2024-2025 Electric SUV of Texas’ at the TAWA Truck Rodeo by this distinguished group of journalists. Texans love their SUVs, and the Kia EV9 resonates with TAWA members for its design, interior space, range, technology, and dynamic driving performance” – Steven Center is the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President for Kia America
This award adds the growing list of achievements to make it first mainstream, fully electric, three-row SUV for Kia EV9. Its bold features are making a radical difference to what electric vehicles are envisioned to look like, talk to driver needs, and redefining expectations.
About A Vehicle That Resonates with Texans
Texas loves its SUVs, and the EV9 fit right into that love. It has room for growing families in its three-row seating, and its electric powertrain is cutting-edge with a great range and responsive performance. Modern design and robust features tell of Kia’s commitment to innovation and quality.
What’s Unique About the Kia EV9?
Design: Bold outside and luxurious, roomy inside.
Technology: Latest innovations designed to deliver increased comfort and connectivity.
Drive performance: A perfect blend of ride, dynamism, and capability across roads.
Environmental friendliness: An electric SUV that seamlessly merges a green conscience with everyday use.
TAWA scribes who took the Kia EV9 out on the streets were unanimous in its ability to tackle everyday duties with environmental sensitivity and glamour.
