Which electric SUVs are the biggest

The Tesla Model X and Kia EV9 are the two largest electric SUVs currently sold in the U.S. market. The Model X seats up to seven passengers and measures 198 inches long with 88 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front row. The EV9, released in 2023, is slightly longer at 201 inches and offers 76 cubic feet of cargo space, also seating seven. Both vehicles prioritize interior room over the compact footprint of smaller electric SUVs like the Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Size matters differently depending on what you need. If you're comparing these two, the Model X has been available longer and has more Supercharger locations nationwide. The EV9 is newer, costs less to start, and offers more traditional SUV proportions—it looks and feels more like a conventional three-row vehicle. Neither is the absolute largest by every measurement, but both are substantially bigger than mid-size electric SUVs and represent the upper end of what's currently available.

Key Takeaways

  • The Tesla Model X and Kia EV9 are the two largest electric SUVs sold in the U.S., both seating seven passengers with three rows.
  • The Model X starts around $52,000 and the EV9 around $55,000, though prices vary by trim level and current incentives.
  • The Model X has a denser Supercharger network, while the EV9 works with multiple charging networks and may feel more familiar if you're used to traditional SUVs.
  • Cargo space, towing capacity, and real-world range differ between the two—compare these specifics against your actual driving patterns.

Tesla Model X dimensions and what fits inside

The Model X is 198 inches long, 78 inches wide, and 64 inches tall. Behind the front seats, you have 88 cubic feet of cargo space with all rows in use, or 150 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The vehicle uses a distinctive falcon-wing rear door design that opens upward, which makes loading easier in tight parking spaces but requires more vertical clearance than a traditional swing door.

The Model X comes in two powertrain options: Long Range (348 miles of range) and Plaid (348 miles, but with faster acceleration). Both versions tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Long Range starts around $52,000 before any federal tax credits or state incentives. Real-world range depends heavily on driving conditions—highway driving at 70 mph typically yields 20 to 30 percent less range than EPA estimates, which is normal for any electric vehicle.

Kia EV9 dimensions and interior space

The EV9 measures 201 inches long, 78 inches wide, and 66 inches tall—slightly taller and longer than the Model X. It offers 76 cubic feet of cargo space with all three rows occupied, expanding to 144 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The EV9 uses conventional rear doors that swing outward, which is more familiar if you're coming from a gas-powered SUV, though it requires more space to open fully in a parking lot.

The EV9 comes in Standard Range (230 miles) and Long Range (304 miles) versions. The Long Range model starts around $55,000 before incentives. It tows up to 3,500 pounds, which is less than the Model X but sufficient for most trailers and cargo carriers. The EV9 works with Kia's charging network plus third-party networks like Electrify America, giving you more flexibility if you travel outside areas with dense Tesla Supercharger coverage.

Cargo and towing: real differences between the two

If you regularly tow, the Model X's 5,000-pound capacity is a meaningful advantage over the EV9's 3,500 pounds. That difference matters if you're pulling a small boat, horse trailer, or loaded utility trailer. However, towing reduces range significantly for both vehicles—expect 25 to 40 percent less range when pulling a trailer, depending on weight and aerodynamics.

For cargo without towing, both vehicles handle typical family needs. The Model X's extra 12 cubic feet of space is noticeable if you regularly pack for road trips with three rows of passengers, but the difference is not dramatic. The EV9's conventional door design makes loading easier for some people, especially if you have mobility concerns or live in a climate where falcon-wing doors ice over in winter.

Charging networks and real-world availability

The Model X uses Tesla's Supercharger network exclusively. Tesla has opened some Superchargers to non-Tesla vehicles in select locations, but the Model X owner experience is built around Tesla's proprietary network. This is an advantage if you live in an urban or suburban area with dense coverage, and a disadvantage if you travel frequently to rural regions where Superchargers are sparse.

The EV9 uses the NACS connector (the same standard Tesla adopted) and works with Kia's charging network plus Electrify America, EVgo, and other third-party networks. This multi-network approach means more charging locations in most regions, though you may need multiple apps to find and pay for charging. If you plan long road trips through less-developed areas, the EV9's flexibility is worth considering.

Price, incentives, and total cost of ownership

The Model X Long Range starts around $52,000 before incentives. The EV9 Long Range starts around $55,000. Both may be may be able to access for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 if you meet income and domestic content requirements, though these rules change periodically. Some states offer additional rebates—California, for example, has its own incentive programs that vary by income level.

Total cost of ownership includes electricity, maintenance, and insurance. Electric vehicles typically cost 60 to 70 percent less to fuel than gas vehicles over the same mileage. Maintenance is lower because there's no oil, transmission fluid, or spark plugs. Insurance costs vary by location and your driving history, but electric SUVs generally cost 10 to 20 percent more to insure than comparable gas vehicles due to higher repair costs for battery damage.

When a smaller electric SUV might make more sense

The Model X and EV9 are large vehicles, and that size comes with trade-offs. They cost more to buy, consume more electricity per mile, and are harder to park in tight urban spaces. If you don't regularly use all three rows or need the cargo space, a mid-size electric SUV like the Tesla Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5 might be more practical and less expensive.

Consider your actual usage: Do you transport seven people regularly, or do you have three kids and occasionally need space for a friend? Do you tow, or do you just want extra cargo room? If you're buying the size you think you might need rather than the size you actually use, a smaller vehicle will save you money on purchase price, electricity, and insurance while being easier to maneuver daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Model X and EV9 fit in a standard garage?

Both vehicles are about 64 to 66 inches tall, which fits in most residential garages with 8-foot ceilings, though you'll have minimal clearance. Length is the bigger constraint—at 198 to 201 inches, both are longer than many two-car garages. Measure your garage before buying, or plan to charge outside.

How much does it cost to charge these vehicles at home?

Charging costs depend on your local electricity rate. At the U.S. average of about 16 cents per kilowatt-hour, charging the EV9's 76-kWh battery costs roughly $12, and the Model X's 100-kWh battery costs roughly $16. Your actual cost varies by region and time of day if your utility offers time-of-use rates.

Which vehicle is better for road trips?

The Model X has a denser Supercharger network, making long-distance travel easier in most regions. The EV9 offers more charging network options but requires managing multiple apps. For frequent road trips, the Model X's infrastructure advantage is significant. For occasional trips, both work fine with planning.

Do I need a special electrical installation to charge at home?

Both vehicles come with a standard 120-volt charger that adds 2 to 3 miles of range per hour—impractical for daily use. Most owners install a 240-volt Level 2 charger, which adds 25 to 30 miles per hour and costs $500 to $2,500 installed. This is not required, but it makes home charging realistic.

What's the warranty on the battery?

Tesla covers the Model X battery for eight years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first. Kia covers the EV9 battery for ten years or 100,000 miles. Both warranties cover degradation beyond a certain threshold, though the exact terms differ. Check the warranty document for your specific vehicle before buying.