Fraud or Fluke? Kia EV9 Controversy Sparks Debate Over Demo Sales

A refunded vehicle sold at a low price?
The reason why Kia is under suspicion

There is a system offering a discount on demo vehicles, which, if well utilized, can be used to buy a car at a cheap price. Demo vehicles are used for a certain period for customer experience and then sold with additional discounts. One can expect a new car’s quality and condition at a cheaper price.

Recently, there has been controversy over these demo cars due to suspicions that they are refunded vehicles. While used vehicles may seem similar, most refunded vehicles often have defects or issues. For this reason, consumers usually avoid refunded cars and remain in unwanted inventory.

Over $59,000 paid
Another user raises suspicion

The vehicle at the center of this controversy is the EV9, Kia’s flagship model. The starting price of the EV9 Earth Trim is $66,000. It is said to be equipped with all options except a four-wheel boost. While there are limitations in choosing options for non-new car purchases, the buyer did not hesitate to purchase because all essential options were included.

Buyer A posted pictures of the vehicle he bought with information about the options on an online community site. Mr. A claimed to have purchased the car for nearly $59,000 after receiving benefits such as a promotional vehicle discount of $2,280 and an inventory discount of $4,650. At this point, Mr. B, another user, left a post on Mr. A’s post, suspecting that the vehicle was the one he had refunded.

Exterior and mileage match
Suspicion spreads online

Mr. B revealed photos of the EV9 he had owned. It was a vehicle with a matte color applied in the same ivory matte silver color as Mr. A’s car. The exterior was the same, and the mileage was almost identical. The last recorded mileage of Mr. B’s vehicle through photos was 1,208 km (750 miles). The mileage of Mr. A’s vehicle had only a 4-km (2.5-mile) difference at 1,212 km (753 miles).

With almost identical mileage and similar exteriors, suspicion is spreading rapidly through the community. As the vehicle has driven 1,200 km (746 miles) and has been refunded, doubts about the vehicle’s condition and defects are also escalating. Mr. B did not reveal detailed information but said six defects were found, including charging failure from the first day after purchase.

If proven true, the impact will be significant
But it’s still just speculation

If Mr. B’s claim is proven true, it is expected to have a significant impact. Even if the refunded vehicle were repaired, it would be difficult to avoid criticism for deceiving consumers since it differs from a demo car. However, as it is still speculation, it is too early to make a hasty judgment. There is also the possibility that Mr. B may have misunderstood even after hearing the relevant explanation. Mr. A and Mr. B have agreed to cross-check the vehicle identification numbers (VIN), so it will soon be revealed whether it will end as a simple happening.