EVWire brief: Kia’s electric lineup is shifting as the high-performance EV9 GT is delayed indefinitely for both Canada and the U.S., while the compact EV4 sedan remains on track for a Canadian launch in early 2026. The EV4’s U.S. debut has been postponed due to changing EV market conditions and tariff concerns, but Kia Canada confirms the model will move ahead as planned.
Kia’s electric roadmap is evolving as market conditions across North America continue to shift. The automaker has confirmed that its high-performance EV9 GT, originally unveiled at the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show with 501 horsepower, is now delayed “until further notice” for both the U.S. and Canada. The decision follows missed delivery targets from summer 2025 and a “slowdown in EV demand”, which Kia cites as the primary reason for the pause.
Kia’s EV9 GT had promised more than 120 additional horsepower over the regular EV9, plus upgraded suspension, larger brakes, performance tires, a limited-slip differential, simulated gear shifts, and unique styling cues. The regular EV9 continues to perform relatively well in Canada, with 3,077 units sold in the first nine months of 2025, nearly matching its 2024 performance.
Meanwhile, the all-electric compact Kia EV4 sedan is experiencing a very different fate depending on which side of the border you’re on. Kia has confirmed to U.S. media that the EV4’s U.S. launch has been delayed indefinitely due to “changing market conditions.” The model is built in South Korea and would face U.S. import tariffs, adding yet another barrier to its launch.
However, Kia Canada confirms the EV4 remains on schedule, with plans for the sedan to arrive in early 2026. Initially revealed at the New York International Auto Show in April 2025, the EV4 will carry the weight of helping re-establish Kia as a meaningful player in the EV conversation.
Early specifications shared from the New York unveiling include:
EV-specific architecture
Equipped with NACS port
58.3-kWh battery for base trims
81.4-kWh battery for upper trims
500+ km estimated driving range
Up to 30 inches of combined infotainment displays
One-pedal driving, highway driving assist, battery heating, and an available heat pump
Estimated starting price near $40,000 CAD (official pricing not yet announced)
The broader EV landscape helps explain Kia’s cautious positioning. Canada’s EV sales dropped sharply in early 2025, following the removal of key federal and provincial rebates. The federal government also delayed its ZEV mandate requiring 20% EV sales by 2026, pushing implementation to 2027 and launching a program review. At the same time, major manufacturers like General Motors have paused production of several EV models, including the GMC Hummer, Cadillac Lyriq, Escalade IQ, and Vistiq.
Kia has also been quiet regarding its previously announced midsize electric pickup truck for the US and Canadian markets. However, growing uncertainty around demand for electric trucks, as witnessed by Ford possibly discontinuing the F-150 Lightning, adds doubt about whether a Kia EV pickup will ultimately reach showrooms.
For now, Kia’s Canadian customers can expect the EV4 to arrive on schedule next year, while the EV9 GT and potential Kia EV pickup remain in limbo.
SOURCE: Driving.ca
