Kia EV9 Third Row Legroom: 2025 Measurements vs Tesla Model X
Ever tried squeezing into a third-row seat only to discover your knees are practically touching your chin?
Shopping for a three-row electric SUV means more than just comparing range numbers and horsepower figures. If you’re considering the Kia EV9 or Tesla Model X, the third row might be where your kids spend hundreds of hours—or where grandma sits during holiday road trips.
So which electric SUV actually delivers on the promise of usable third-row seating? The answer might surprise you. While Tesla pioneered the electric three-row SUV back in 2015, Kia’s newcomer brings fresh competition with measurements that tell an interesting story.
Let’s dig into the real numbers, real-world experiences, and which vehicle makes the most sense for your family’s needs.
The Numbers: Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X Third Row
Before we talk about how these measurements feel in real life, let’s look at the official specifications.
Kia EV9 Third Row Dimensions
The 2025 Kia EV9 offers impressive third-row measurements that vary slightly depending on configuration:
Legroom: 30.8 to 32.0 inches (varies by second-row configuration) Headroom: 39.5 inches Hip room: 41.9 inches Shoulder room: 55 inches
With captain’s chairs in the second row, you get the maximum 32.0 inches of third-row legroom. Choose the seven-passenger bench seat configuration, and legroom drops to 30.8 inches. The lounge seat option in select trims provides 29.9 inches.
The EV9’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) architecture creates a flat floor throughout the cabin. Without transmission tunnels or exhaust systems eating into space, Kia engineered genuinely usable third-row accommodations.
“The Kia EV9’s purpose-built EV platform delivers interior space that rivals traditional gas-powered three-row SUVs, proving that electric vehicles don’t require compromising passenger comfort.”
Tesla Model X Third Row Dimensions
The Tesla Model X has been around since 2015, and while it’s received updates, the basic dimensions remain consistent:
Legroom: 32.0 to 32.2 inches Headroom: Not officially published (estimated 36-37 inches) Hip room: Not officially published Shoulder room: Not officially published
Tesla’s official specifications are surprisingly sparse. The company lists 32.2 inches of third-row legroom but doesn’t provide headroom, hip room, or shoulder room measurements.
Real-world reviews consistently describe the Model X third row as cramped, especially for adults. The sloping roofline cuts into headroom significantly compared to the EV9’s boxy design.
Tesla offers the Model X in five-seat, six-seat, and seven-seat configurations, with the six-seat version providing slightly better third-row access through the center opening.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Measurement | Kia EV9 | Tesla Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Third-Row Legroom | 30.8 – 32.0 inches | 32.0 – 32.2 inches |
| Third-Row Headroom | 39.5 inches | ~36-37 inches (estimated) |
| Third-Row Hip Room | 41.9 inches | Not published |
| Second-Row Legroom | 42.8 inches | 38.7 inches |
| Access to Third Row | Tilting walk-in entry | Falcon Wing doors |
| Total Passenger Volume | 160.3 cu ft | Not published |
The Tesla Model X technically offers 0.2 inches more maximum legroom, but that tiny difference disappears in real-world use. What matters more are the other dimensions—and how the two vehicles actually feel when you’re sitting back there.
Third Row Space Showdown: Kia EV9 vs Tesla Model X
Compare actual measurements and see which electric SUV truly delivers on third-row comfort
2025 Kia EV9
2025 Tesla Model X
The EV9 dominates in real-world third-row usability with 3.5+ inches more headroom, superior hip room, and 42% more cargo space behind the third row—all while costing $25,000 less. The Model X’s 0.2-inch legroom advantage is negligible compared to the EV9’s dramatic headroom and width advantages. For families who actually use the third row regularly, the EV9 is the clear winner. The Model X excels in performance (0-60 in 3.8 sec vs 7.8 sec) and range (348 miles vs 304 miles), but compromises interior space for aerodynamics and speed.
Real-World Experience: Who Actually Fits?
Numbers on paper only tell part of the story. Let’s talk about what it’s really like sitting in these third rows.
Adults in the Kia EV9 Third Row
A 5-foot-6-inch adult can sit comfortably in the EV9’s third row for extended periods. A 6-foot adult fits—barely—but requires the second row to slide forward, sharing legroom between rows.
The key advantage? That impressive 39.5 inches of headroom. Most adults won’t feel their heads brushing the ceiling. The boxy SUV design creates vertical space that the Model X’s sloping roofline simply can’t match.
Hip room at 41.9 inches means two adults can sit side-by-side without constant shoulder contact. You’re not luxuriating back there, but you’re not suffering either.
For reference, the gas-powered Kia Telluride offers 31.4 inches of third-row legroom—the EV9 actually exceeds its popular sibling.
Adults in the Tesla Model X Third Row
Consumer Reports describes the Model X third row as “suitable only for kids.” Multiple reviewers who are 5-foot-9 or taller report tight quarters, especially for headroom.
The 32.2 inches of legroom sounds adequate on paper. But the narrow floor rail beneath the second row—less than 9 inches wide—forces occupants to position their feet awkwardly. You can’t place both feet flat on the floor like you can in the EV9.
With the six-seat configuration, passengers can angle their legs slightly toward the center opening, improving comfort. This makes the six-seat Model X notably better than the seven-seat version for third-row passengers.
One owner described being “comfortable for a short drive” but wouldn’t want to spend more than 15 minutes back there. The Model X third row works for kids or shorter adults on brief trips—not much else.
Children and Teenagers
This is where both vehicles shine, but the EV9 pulls ahead.
Kids love the EV9’s third row. Each side features dual USB-C charging ports, dedicated cupholders, and overhead reading lights. The tilting walk-in entry system makes access easy even for smaller children.
The Model X offers heated third-row seats—a feature the EV9 lacks—plus the dramatic Falcon Wing doors that kids find endlessly entertaining. However, the limited headroom becomes problematic as children approach their teenage years.
By age 13 or 14, many kids exceed 5-foot-6. At that point, the EV9’s superior headroom makes a real difference in long-term comfort.
Car Seat Installation: Critical for Young Families
If you’re hauling car seats, third-row accessibility matters enormously.
Forward-Facing Car Seats
The EV9 handles forward-facing convertible car seats reasonably well. Latch anchors are accessible, though the fixed head restraints push some car seats slightly off the seatback. Not ideal, but workable.
High-back boosters face similar challenges. Low-back boosters fit perfectly, and older children using them report comfortable headroom and legroom.
The Model X third row can accommodate forward-facing seats, but installation requires patience. The tight quarters make securing the harness more challenging than in the EV9’s more spacious third row.
Accessing the Third Row with Second-Row Car Seats
This scenario trips up many three-row SUVs: you need to reach the third row, but you’ve got a rear-facing infant seat anchored in the second row.
The EV9’s tilting walk-in entry system works even with car seats installed, though the path narrows significantly. You might need to temporarily adjust straps to create clearance.
Tesla’s Falcon Wing doors provide excellent third-row access in the six-seat configuration, with a wide center passage between captain’s chairs. The seven-seat bench version makes this much trickier.
The Verdict for Families with Car Seats
Neither vehicle is perfect for families juggling multiple car seats. However, the EV9’s additional space provides more flexibility for installation and access.
If you’re frequently installing and removing car seats, test both vehicles with your specific car seat models before buying. Compatibility varies significantly based on car seat design.
Always follow manufacturer instructions when installing car seats, and never compromise proper installation for convenience.
Design Philosophy: Why the Differences Exist
Understanding why these vehicles differ helps explain what you’re getting.
Kia’s Fresh-Sheet EV Design
Kia designed the EV9 from the ground up as an electric vehicle. The E-GMP architecture underpins both the EV6 and EV9, providing a flat floor and efficient packaging.
Without engine, transmission, or exhaust components, engineers maximized interior volume. The boxy exterior design prioritizes interior space over aerodynamic efficiency—a deliberate choice targeting family buyers.
The result? An electric SUV that feels more like a traditional three-row hauler with generous space in all rows.
Tesla’s Aerodynamic Priority
Tesla designed the Model X to maximize range and performance. The sloping roofline cuts through air efficiently, contributing to the vehicle’s impressive range numbers.
But aerodynamics require compromises. That beautiful swooping rear roofline creates the cramped third-row headroom issues. Tesla prioritized 0-60 times and EPA range over maximizing third-row space.
The Falcon Wing doors represent Tesla’s solution for third-row access. They’re undeniably cool and functional in the right parking situation. However, they don’t address the fundamental space limitations.
Comparison: How They Stack Up Against Other Electric Three-Row SUVs
| Model | Third-Row Legroom | Third-Row Headroom | Starting Price | EPA Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 | 30.8 – 32.0 in | 39.5 in | $54,900 | 230-304 miles |
| Tesla Model X | 32.0 – 32.2 in | ~36-37 in (est.) | $79,990 | 326-348 miles |
| Rivian R1S | ~35 in | ~39 in | $78,885 | 260-420 miles |
| Hyundai Ioniq 9 | 31.0 in | 38.5 in | ~$56,000 (est.) | ~300 miles (est.) |
| Volvo EX90 | ~32 in | ~38 in | $77,990 | 300-310 miles |
The Kia EV9 offers the best value proposition with competitive third-row space at a significantly lower price than premium rivals. Only the Rivian R1S clearly beats the EV9 for third-row comfort—but at a $24,000 price premium.
The Tesla Model X commands the highest price while offering the most compromised third-row experience. You’re paying for performance, range, and the Tesla brand—not interior space.
Cargo Space: Another Critical Family Factor
Third-row space matters, but so does cargo capacity when that third row is in use.
Behind the Third Row
Kia EV9: 20.2 cubic feet Tesla Model X: 17 cubic feet (seven-seat) / 11 cubic feet (six-seat)
The EV9 provides meaningfully more cargo space behind the third row. During Car and Driver testing, they fit five carry-on suitcases behind the EV9’s third row compared to fewer in the Model X.
With Third Row Folded
Kia EV9: 43.5 cubic feet Tesla Model X: 28 cubic feet
Kia EV9: 81.7 cubic feet (to first row) Tesla Model X: 88 cubic feet (six-seat) / 91.6 cubic feet (five-seat)
The Model X offers more total cargo volume when all rear seats fold, but the EV9 provides more usable space in typical family configurations.
The Practical Reality
Family road trips mean luggage, sports equipment, and groceries. The EV9’s 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row accommodates a week’s worth of luggage for seven people. The Model X forces tougher choices about what stays home.
The EV9’s flat load floor makes packing easier than the Model X’s sloped cargo area.
Access and Entry: Getting to That Third Row
All the space in the world doesn’t matter if passengers can’t reach their seats comfortably.
Kia EV9’s Tilting Walk-In Entry
The EV9 features a tilting walk-in entry system on both sides. Press a button, and the second-row seat tilts forward while sliding to create an opening.
Kids can navigate this independently by age 7 or 8. Adults don’t need to be contortionists. The system works smoothly and requires minimal effort.
One limitation: the opening narrows significantly if you’ve got car seats or larger items in the second row. Plan your seating arrangements carefully.
Tesla Model X’s Falcon Wing Doors
The Falcon Wing doors are genuinely impressive when they work. They open upward in tight parking spaces where conventional doors couldn’t function.
Sensors prevent contact with low ceilings or adjacent vehicles. The doors can open in spaces as narrow as 12 inches from the vehicle.
However, these doors add complexity. They’re heavier than conventional doors, making them challenging for children to close manually if the power system fails. Cold weather and sensor issues have plagued some owners.
In the six-seat configuration, the center passage between captain’s chairs provides excellent third-row access. The seven-seat bench version requires the same seat-tilting process as the EV9.
Which System Works Better?
For families with young children, the EV9’s simpler tilting system proves more reliable and easier for kids to operate independently.
For those who prioritize the “wow factor” and need to park in tight spaces, the Falcon Wing doors deliver something no other vehicle offers.
Performance and Range: The Trade-offs
Interior space doesn’t exist in isolation. Both vehicles make different compromises.
Kia EV9 Performance
- Power: 215 hp (RWD) to 379 hp (AWD)
- 0-60 mph: ~7.8 seconds (AWD)
- Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs
- EPA range: 230-304 miles
- DC fast charging: Up to 230 kW
The EV9 delivers adequate performance for family hauling. The turbocharged mentality doesn’t apply here—it’s an EV prioritizing efficiency and space over neck-snapping acceleration.
With the 800-volt architecture, the EV9 charges from 10-80% in approximately 25 minutes under ideal conditions. Real-world charging often takes 30-35 minutes.
Tesla Model X Performance
- Power: 670 hp (Dual Motor) to 1,020 hp (Plaid)
- 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds (Dual Motor) / 2.5 seconds (Plaid)
- Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs
- EPA range: 326-348 miles
- DC fast charging: Up to 250 kW
The Model X delivers supercar-rivaling acceleration in Plaid trim. Even the base Dual Motor configuration accelerates faster than most sports cars from 20 years ago.
Tesla’s Supercharger network provides the most reliable and widely available fast-charging infrastructure in North America. This convenience factor shouldn’t be underestimated for road trips.
The EV9 now includes the NACS charging port on 2026 models, providing access to Tesla’s Supercharger network starting in 2025.
The Space vs. Speed Trade-off
The Model X prioritizes performance and range over interior space. If you value 0-60 times and track-day capabilities, Tesla wins handily.
The EV9 prioritizes interior volume and value over straight-line speed. For families who need comfortable seating for seven, Kia makes more sense.
Pricing: Value Proposition Comparison
Let’s talk money—because that $25,000 price difference matters.
2025 Kia EV9:
- Light RWD: $54,900
- Light Long Range RWD: $62,900
- Wind AWD: $65,900
- Land AWD: $71,900
- GT-Line AWD: $73,900
2025 Tesla Model X:
- Dual Motor AWD: $79,990
- Plaid: $94,990
- Six-seat configuration: +$6,500
- Seven-seat configuration: +$3,500
A comparably equipped Kia EV9 Land AWD with captain’s chairs costs around $72,000. A seven-seat Tesla Model X Dual Motor runs $83,490.
That’s an $11,490 difference—enough to cover two years of insurance payments, a home charging installation, or a substantial down payment on a second vehicle.
Standard Features: What You Get
The EV9 includes as standard on most trims:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays
- Panoramic curved screen
- Highway Driving Assist
- Remote parking assist
- Heated front seats
- 10-year/100,000-mile warranty
The Model X includes:
- 17-inch touchscreen
- Autopilot (basic driver assistance)
- Premium audio system
- Glass roof
- Falcon Wing doors
Tesla’s minimalist approach means fewer physical controls. Everything routes through the touchscreen—love it or hate it. The EV9 retains more traditional controls for climate and volume.
Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty significantly exceeds Tesla’s 8-year/150,000-mile battery warranty for peace of mind.
Owner Perspectives: Real Families, Real Experiences
Let’s hear from families actually living with these vehicles.
Kia EV9 Owner Feedback
Families consistently praise the EV9’s third-row comfort for children. One owner reported their 10 and 12-year-old kids fighting over who gets the third row—a reversal from their previous SUV.
The tilting entry system gets high marks for ease of use. Kids age 8 and older can operate it independently, reducing parent involvement during carpool duty.
Common complaints focus on material quality in lower trims feeling cheaper than the price suggests. Higher trims address this with better materials, but you’ll pay more.
Tesla Model X Owner Feedback
Model X families love the performance, range, and Supercharger access. The vehicle excels for two-row family use or occasional third-row seating for kids under 12.
Several owners report their teenagers refusing to sit in the third row on longer trips, preferring to stay home rather than fold themselves into the cramped space.
The Falcon Wing doors receive mixed reviews. Some families find them delightful and functional. Others report sensor issues, slower operation than expected, and concerns about long-term reliability.
FAQ: Your Pressing Questions Answered
Q: Can adults actually fit in the Kia EV9 third row?
Yes, adults under 5-foot-10 can fit comfortably in the EV9’s third row for trips under an hour, provided the second row slides forward to share legroom. The generous headroom makes a significant difference compared to vehicles with sloping rooflines.
Q: Is the Tesla Model X third row really that bad?
For children and shorter adults on brief trips, it works fine—but tall adults will find it cramped, especially regarding headroom and footwell space. The six-seat configuration improves comfort by allowing diagonal leg positioning through the center opening.
Q: Which vehicle is better for families with teenagers?
The Kia EV9 handles teenagers better thanks to superior headroom and hip room, particularly as kids reach 5-foot-8 or taller. The Model X third row becomes uncomfortable for most teenagers on trips exceeding 30 minutes.
Q: How does the Rivian R1S compare to both vehicles for third-row space?
The Rivian R1S offers the most spacious third row among electric SUVs, with approximately 35 inches of legroom—but costs $78,885 to start, making it $24,000 more expensive than the base EV9. You’re paying a premium for that extra space and off-road capability.
Q: Can you install three car seats across the second row in either vehicle?
The EV9’s 60-inch second-row shoulder room allows three car seats in some combinations, though it requires narrow car seat models. The Model X’s 38.7-inch second-row legroom makes this extremely challenging—most families will need to use the third row for the additional car seat.
Q: Does the Kia EV9 qualify for the federal EV tax credit?
As of 2025, the EV9 assembled in the United States qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit, subject to income limits and vehicle price caps. The Model X exceeds the $80,000 vehicle price cap and doesn’t qualify for the credit.
Q: Which vehicle offers better long-term reliability?
Both are relatively new to the market, making long-term reliability predictions challenging. Tesla’s electric powertrains have proven durable, but build quality issues persist. Kia’s extensive warranty and established dealer network provide more confidence for repairs and service.
The Bottom Line: Which Electric SUV Wins for Third-Row Space?
The Kia EV9 delivers significantly better third-row practicality than the Tesla Model X—and does so at a substantially lower price point.
For families who regularly use the third row, the EV9’s superior headroom, hip room, and cargo space make it the clear winner. The $25,000+ savings over a comparable Model X is substantial enough to influence most family budgets.
The Model X excels for buyers prioritizing performance, range, and the Tesla ownership experience over third-row practicality. If you need the third row only occasionally for small children, the Model X works—but you’re paying premium pricing for compromised space.
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 (EV9’s sibling) will offer similar space at a competitive price, providing another excellent option for families.
For most families shopping three-row electric SUVs, the Kia EV9 represents the smarter choice. You get more interior space, better third-row comfort, lower pricing, and an excellent warranty. The Model X offers excitement and performance—but families live in the interior, not on the drag strip.
Which Kia model is your daily driver or dream vehicle? If you’re shopping for a three-row electric SUV, what matters most to you—space, range, or performance? Share your priorities in the comments!
