The Best Seat in the House: A Look at the 2026 EV9's First-Class 6-Passenger Captain's Chair Layout

When shopping for a three-row electric SUV, seating configuration can make or break your family's comfort on longer journeys. The 2026 Kia EV9 Land with GT-Line Package answers this challenge with its thoughtfully designed 6-passenger captain's chair layout, transforming the second row into a space that rivals first-class airline seating.

This premium configuration replaces the standard bench seat with individual captain's chairs that provide each passenger their own personal space. The GT-Line Package takes comfort further with specialized features like wing-out headrests and an extendable centre console, creating an environment where passengers can truly relax during extended drives across Ontario and beyond.

At a Glance: EV9 Captain's Chair Features

Individual Comfort and Personal Space

The captain's chair configuration fundamentally changes how passengers experience the EV9's second row. Rather than sharing space on a bench seat, each passenger enjoys their own dedicated area with armrests, individual climate controls, and personal storage solutions.

The wing-out headrest design provides superior support compared to traditional headrests. These adjustable headrests extend outward to cradle your head during rest, reducing neck strain on longer drives between Toronto and cottage country destinations. The headrests adjust independently, allowing each passenger to find their optimal position for sleep or relaxation.

Each captain's chair operates as an individual seating environment. The power-adjustable leg rests extend to support your lower legs, while the heated and air-cooled surfaces maintain your preferred temperature regardless of outside conditions. The 2nd row window sunshades provide privacy and reduce glare during afternoon drives.

Key comfort features include:

• Individual armrests for each captain's chair
• Power-adjustable leg rests for optimal positioning
• Heated and air-cooled seat surfaces
• 2nd row window sunshades for privacy and glare control
• Independent headrest adjustability
• Personal climate zone controls

The Extendable Centre Console Advantage

The GT-Line Package's extendable centre console serves multiple functions beyond simple storage. This feature slides forward to provide easier access to the third row while offering convenient storage for personal items, devices, and travel essentials.

When extended, the console creates a natural barrier between the captain's chairs, enhancing the individual seating experience. The console includes cupholders and charging ports, ensuring each passenger can stay comfortable and connected throughout the journey. The storage compartments accommodate tablets, phones, and other travel necessities within easy reach of second-row passengers.

The console's sliding mechanism operates smoothly and locks securely in multiple positions. This flexibility allows passengers to customize their space based on the journey's needs, whether prioritizing storage access or third-row entry convenience.

Space and Accessibility Benefits

The 6-passenger configuration offers practical advantages that extend beyond comfort. With dimensions of 1,086 mm of rear leg room and 1,525 mm of rear shoulder room, the captain's chairs provide generous personal space for adult passengers. The walk-through design between chairs creates a natural pathway to the third row, measuring wide enough for comfortable passage.

This open walkway eliminates the need to fold or slide seats when passengers need to move through the cabin. Children can access the third row independently, while adults can assist younger passengers without complex seat adjustments. The design particularly benefits families with car seats, as the walk-through space accommodates installation and removal without affecting adjacent seating.

The captain's chair layout also improves cargo flexibility. With the third row folded, the EV9 provides 1,233 litres of cargo space behind the second row. The individual chairs allow for easier loading of long items between the seats, creating additional storage options for skis, fishing rods, or other recreational equipment.

Practical Benefits for Ontario Families

The 6-passenger configuration offers practical advantages for families navigating daily life in Toronto and surrounding areas. The open walkway between captain's chairs provides easier access to the third row, eliminating the need to fold or slide seats when passengers need to move through the cabin.

This layout particularly benefits families with:

• Multiple children who value personal space during longer trips
• Elderly passengers requiring easier entry and exit options
• Frequent third-row passengers who need quick access
• Long-distance travelers seeking maximum comfort on highway journeys
• Parents managing car seat installations and removals
• Families who frequently transport sports equipment or recreational gear

Comparing Seating Configurations

The choice between the standard 7-passenger bench and the 6-passenger captain's chair layout depends on your specific transportation needs. The bench seat configuration maximizes passenger capacity and offers a lower price point, making it ideal for larger families who prioritize seating quantity over individual luxury features.

The captain's chair layout sacrifices one seat for enhanced comfort and premium amenities. This configuration suits families who frequently take longer trips, value individual passenger comfort, or prefer the premium feel of separated seating arrangements.

Consider the captain's chairs if you regularly transport passengers on trips longer than two hours, frequently use the third row, or want to create a more luxurious travel environment for your family. The additional cost of the GT-Line Package includes numerous other premium features beyond the seating configuration, making it a comprehensive upgrade package.

Which Configuration Works Best for You?

Evaluate your family's typical travel patterns when choosing between configurations. If you regularly carry seven passengers or prioritize maximum seating capacity, the standard bench seat serves your needs effectively. The bench configuration also works well for families with young children who don't require individual seating zones.

The captain's chair configuration excels for families who value comfort over capacity. If your typical passenger count ranges from four to six people, the individual seating approach provides superior comfort without sacrificing practicality. The configuration particularly appeals to families who take regular road trips or extended journeys where passenger comfort becomes a priority.

Experience the EV9 Captain's Chairs at North York Kia

The 2026 EV9's captain's chair configuration transforms family travel by prioritizing individual comfort and personal space. The wing-out headrests and extendable centre console create an environment where every passenger can find their ideal seating position for any journey length.

Book your test drive today at our Toronto dealership to experience how the EV9's premium 6-passenger layout can enhance your family's journeys throughout Ontario and discover the difference captain's chairs make in your daily driving routine.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia EV9, visit Kia.ca