Lepas L8 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.
Plug-in hybrid fuel economy is shown as a hybrid (battery depleted) so it compares fairly with the other car. A PHEV's official "combined" figure assumes you start every trip fully charged, so real-world economy depends on how often you plug in. Electric range shows how far it goes before the petrol engine is needed.
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
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Kia EV9 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats, power tailgate and V2L that the Lepas L8 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lepas L8 uses a Petrol producing 150kW and 310Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout.
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 150kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 18.3kWh (Lepas L8) vs 76.1kWh (Kia EV9).
Space & Comfort
The Lepas L8 measures 4,688mm long on a 2,800mm wheelbase, 322mm shorter than the Kia EV9 at 5,010mm (3,100mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia EV9 generally means more rear legroom.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.0m diameter
Average
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.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lepas L8 if: You or prefer Lepas's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia EV9 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV9 takes 3 of 3 key spec categories. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lepas L8 and Kia EV9?
The Kia EV9 is the cheapest at $97,000 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lepas L8 uses the least fuel at 1.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Kia EV9 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia EV9 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Kia EV9 makes the most power at 160kW.
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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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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