Jeep Compass vs Kia EV9
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Jeep Compass features a 10.1-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the Kia EV9 gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Kia EV9 counters with power tailgate that the Jeep Compass does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Jeep Compass uses a Petrol I4 Turbo + PHEV producing 132kW and 270Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The Kia EV9 responds with a Electric making 160kW and 350Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.4 seconds.
The Kia EV9 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 132kW. In the real-world sprint, the Jeep Compass is 2.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 11.4kWh (Jeep Compass) vs 76.1kWh (Kia EV9).
Space & Comfort
The Jeep Compass measures 4,404mm long on a 2,636mm wheelbase, 606mm shorter than the Kia EV9 at 5,010mm (3,100mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia EV9 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 438L in the Jeep Compass and 333L in the Kia EV9, giving the Jeep Compass a 105L advantage. The Kia EV9 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Kia EV9 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,250kg. That 1,250kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m to 12.0m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 100,000km (Jeep Compass) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV9). The Kia EV9 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Jeep Compass if: You need more boot space, or prefer Jeep's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia EV9 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV9 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Jeep Compass has a clear edge. The Kia EV9 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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