The Kia EV6 is likely one of the most distinctive new designs of the previous yr and, not like the intently associated Hyundai Ioniq 5, it doesn’t play any retro playing cards. It’s all Euro-hatch panache, with a near-premium really feel, and it’s simply the proper dimension inside for 4 adults.
Versus the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which was a finalist final yr, we additionally discover the Kia EV6 a bit higher on real-world vary, driving ease, and interface facets.
Single-motor rear-wheel-drive variations of the EV6 make 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, whereas dual-motor all-wheel-drive variations make 320 hp and 446 lb-ft. Each have a 77.4-kwh battery pack, with vary rankings of as much as 310 miles for the single-motor and as much as 282 miles for the dual-motor.
2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 fast-charging – Lacey, WA
The EV6 excels in some facets that make it a superb road-trip companion. On a 350-kw CCS connector, the EV6 can get better an 80% cost in lower than 18 minutes. Whereas we’ve discovered that isn’t all the time reproducible relying on the temperature, it’s one of many quicker EVs in its class even when it’s charging on a 150-kw connector.
In driving dynamics, we’re nonetheless not wild in regards to the numb steering really feel. And the bodily package deal itself isn’t excellent. Entrance seats really feel too propped-upward, whereas in again the door cuts are given brief shrift in the best way of aerodynamics and styling. Taller individuals will most likely have sufficient area within the rear outboard seats, however getting out and in requires some ducking—and fogeys loading toddlers in will want a studying curve.
That stated, the interface is spectacular. We particularly admire the actual row of buttons that may immediately be retasked from audio and navigation to local weather controls.
![2022 Kia EV6 2022 Kia EV6](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/2022-kia-ev6_100827153_l.jpg)
2022 Kia EV6
Among the many three Hyundai/Kia/Genesis fashions constructed on the guardian firm’s E-GMP devoted electrical automobile platform, the EV6 is the one one provided in all U.S. states—with Kia taking essentially the most proactive strategy to creating the EV6 accessible in greater numbers from the beginning, versus the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
The 2023 mannequin yr marks the introduction of the high-performance Kia EV6 GT. With a mixed output of 576 hp and 546 lb-ft of torque, the GT can speed up to 60 mph in lower than 3.5 seconds—albeit with rated vary right down to 206 miles. It additionally backs up the ahead thrust with a devoted sport suspension with dynamic damping management, an digital limited-slip rear differential, bigger ventilated entrance and rear disc brakes, and Z-rated tires. Sure, it’s a little bit of a distraction from green-car priorities, however we’re pleased to see Kia can be displaying that electrical can outperform gasoline.
![2023 Kia EV6 GT 2023 Kia EV6 GT](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/2023-kia-ev6-gt_100869297_l.jpg)
2023 Kia EV6 GT
We are able to’t ignore that in any other case, the 2023 EV6 lineup has narrowed, with the lack of the base-battery model, and costs have been hiked on the remainder of the lineup—making the brand new entry level $49,795 together with vacation spot. Moreover, experiences of people that’ve managed to purchase an EV6 at sticker value or very near it stay few and much between.
Will the Kia EV6 high our different 5 finalists and grow to be our Greatest Automotive To Purchase 2023? Test again Jan. 4.