Interior Lacking Epic Three-Row in US
Following a prolonged stretch of expectation and elation, the Kia EV9 has eventually arrived to the North American sector. Unluckily, upon arriving in US-based automobile dealerships during the final trimester of 2023, patrons could find themselves miffed to discover that one remarkable capability is absent–the spectacularly-designed rotary seats.
This ingenious design allows the occupants of the second row to turn their chairs around 180 degrees and face the rear seats. Unfortunately, as a Kia representative informed CarBuzz, American buyers won’t be able to take advantage of this feature. “The seats do not comply with the US FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards),” they said. It’s probably because FMVSS 207 is being violated, as this regulation states the requirements for how seats must be secured in the vehicle. There is no allowance for rotating seating assemblies.
It’s absolutely dismal, seeing that the swivel seats are perhaps one of the most exceptional components of the vehicle’s cabin. Aside from their potential to revolve and be positioned facing the back, it makes what once was a difficult chore much more effortless.
The chairs can, for instance, be changed to face the entrance. As previously mentioned, this would most definitely render transferring a little one into a car seat substantially more attainable than formerly, alleviating the adversity of struggling to find concealed straps and child chair attach points. Moms and dads who have toddlers understand how difficult this could be, so this convenient option will have definitely been extensively appreciated by purchasers in America.
It’s important to note that the swivel seating design is limited to the six-seater model; thus, those who were anticipating a seven-seat option won’t be let down.
Although it’s a letdown, the US-spec EV9 still has many other lavish features to be enthusiastic about. According to Kia, all riders, even those in the back seat, can enjoy “lounge-style” comfort levels.
If relegated to the last rank, you’ll find cup holders and plug-ins which can keep your mobile phones and tablets supplied with power throughout many hours. It’s very cozy in the second rank, yet it’s this row that everybody will choose to be at.
Other luxuries include an optional “Relaxation Mode” for front and middle-row passengers, which comes with power-operated leg rests. Second-row passengers can also enjoy the comfort of eight-way adjustable, heated and cooled power seats.
It’s a real pity that the swivel seat feature won’t be available from Kia in the United States due to mandated safety protocols; however, this isn’t the first time something like this has happened. After a spirited battle, authorities have eventually allowed carmakers to utilize adaptive headlights on vehicles being sold in the US, though this technology has been readily obtainable in numerous other places for a substantial length of time.
