Pros -
A pleasure to drive.
Both the front and back have lots of space.
Able to work with the most recent high-rate charging stations.
Style is less clunky than a hatchback and less substantial than a genuine SUV.
Cons -
Maximum cargo capacity is less than that of competing electric SUVs.
Poor visibility to the front and back.
Range was disappointing in Edmunds' tests in the real world.
Some driver assistance features could operate more smoothly.
What's Fresh -
Compatible with the newest high-output DC fast-charging stations is Kia's brand-new electric vehicle.
Upcoming 576-horsepower GT model.
Up to 310 miles of range, according to the EPA.
Launches the initial iteration of the EV6 in 2022.
The 2022 Kia EV6 is a small crossover/hatchback and the first all-electric vehicle the company has ever built. This suggests that the EV6 advantages from having been designed as an EV from the beginning, in contrast to the Niro EV (which is an electrified version of the Niro hybrid). Despite the EV6's compact overall dimensions, Kia was able to give it an extraordinarily sleek appearance and rather roomy seats because it didn't require an engine or other conventional parts.
The undercarriage of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the EV6 is very similar. Like the Ioniq 5, it is also compatible with the newest, lightning-fast public DC fast-charging stations. Why is that relevant? According to Kia, under ideal conditions, a 350-kW charger can refuel 70 kilometres and charge a battery from 10 percent to 80 percent capacity in less than 18 minutes. Sadly, 350-kW stations are not very prevalent. Even so, the EV6 can be considered future-proof because it will be able to take use of more powerful fast charging when it becomes available in the coming years.
The EV6 is a car that is really appealing to drive. Acceleration is quick enough to keep you firmly planted in your seat in all rear- and all-wheel-drive configurations, but not so fast that it rearranges your internal organs like some other EVs. The comfortable smooth ride quality would appeal to passengers as well. Even moderate potholes don't cause the cabin to shake sharply, so you'll still feel a lot of little bumps and seams in the road.
Although the EV6's interior isn't as futuristic as some other EVs', it is nevertheless aesthetically appealing and practical. The broad digital displays above the dashboard offer a stylish flair reminiscent of some Mercedes and BMW vehicles and are simple to read at a glance. Instead of sticking to the touchscreen-only approach that permeates the Kia's rivals, the EV6 feels like it was designed with the user in mind thanks to a scattering of physical buttons on the centre console.
The 2022 EV6 can compete head-to-head with other highly regarded EVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Tesla Model 3 and Y, and Volkswagen ID.4. It's not simply a hopeful look into Kia's all-electric future. To receive our complete assessment of the EV6's practical range, utility, and other aspects, read our test team's Expert Rating.
Performance9.0/10 -
How is the EV6 propelled? There aren't many EV SUVs that are as interesting to drive as the EV6, if you're looking for one. Although the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are connected, Kia has done a fantastic job giving the EV6 a personality all its own. The suspension setting on the Kia is stiffer than on the Hyundai, and the overall feel of the vehicle is noticeably livelier than the Ioniq 5. Sharp handling on the EV6 makes it responsive and simple to manoeuvre through turns.
It is also swift. Our all-wheel-drive GT-Line test vehicle reached 60 mph from 0 to 4.7 seconds, which is quicker than the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4 of similar size and performance and about on pace with the Tesla Model Y Long Range. Due to its smooth power and programmable brake regeneration, the EV6 is also simple to drive every day.
Comfort7.5/10 -
Exactly how cosy is the EV6? The suspension on the EV6 isn't as plush as some of its rivals'. The EV6 detects up road imperfections when driving and transmits them directly to the cabin, which can quickly grow tiresome from the incessant pothole crashing and bump juddering. The EV6's interior is also a little bit louder than that of some of its rivals, like the Ioniq 5 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
The seats immediately jumped out as another area that could use upgrading after a few exhausting days. Your head cannot fully tilt backward because the headrests protrude too much. Our drivers also had issues with the EV6's inability to modify the lumbar support.
Interior 8.0/10 -
How is the inside? There is no discernible learning curve in the EV6's cabin, which is easy to use. The central touch panel that switches between the climate and radio features is something we particularly like. Genius! Having said that, there are a few points worth making. Surprisingly, rear view is not that good. The rear window aperture is just a little bit too tiny, and the substantial rear pillars result in wide blind areas. You only need to be more cautious when changing lanes or going backwards, but it's not a deal-breaker.
Finding a driving position you like is simple. For passengers in the back, there is also plenty of room. But due of the EV6's sloping roofline, taller backseat passengers will need to be careful when climbing in and out.
Technology7.5/10 -
How is the tech? The EV6's infotainment system is quick, supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto when connected via USB, and is simple to operate even while driving. Unfortunately, the Meridian sound system in our test car never produced full bass and distorted music at higher volumes. It significantly falls short of the Bose system found in the EV6's brother, the Ioniq 5.
The EV6 struggled to stay in the middle of the lane while using Kia's lane centering system, and the adaptive cruise control had a tendency to halt for vehicles parked on the side of the road. However, the blind-spot monitoring system was flawless, and engaging the Kia's Highway Driving Assist in the slow-moving rush hour traffic was a welcome respite.
Storage7.5/10 -
The storage situation? With the back seats up, the EV6 provides a pitiful 24.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The products from Ford, Tesla, Hyundai, and VW all let you fit more in the space behind the back hatch. Like the Ioniq 5, the front trunk is absurdly small and not big enough to fit a laptop bag.
It is better to store small items. The middle console is useful for keeping bigger items like a handbag or even a supermarket bag, and there are convenient door compartments. The large amount of legroom in the back passenger section will be appreciated by parents who want to install a child safety seat as well. If capacity is your main priority, though, the EV6's rivals offer storage options that are just a little bit better overall.
Range and Efficiency 7.0/10 -
How are the efficiency and range? We evaluated the all-wheel-drive EV6, which according to the EPA should have a range of 274 miles on a single charge. The EV6 barely covered 261 miles in Edmunds' real-world range test, falling short of its estimated range. Our measured energy usage, 32.4 kWh, is comparable to the official EPA estimate of 32 kWh/100 miles: 32.4 kWh of electricity are used for every 100 miles of driving. One of the few EVs for which we haven't met or surpassed EPA estimates is the EV6.
For comparison, certain Mach-E and Model Y vehicles can travel more than 300 miles on a single charge. In our testing, even the comparable Ioniq 5 was able to travel further.
The EV6 can use the most recent high-powered DC fast-charging stations, which is a plus.
Value 8.0/10 -
Is the EV6 a decent buy? The EV6 GT-Line that we examined was loaded with goodies, including a head-up display, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree parking camera. The EV6 is priced similarly to rival models from Ford and Hyundai, but it falls short in several respects. At this price, the interior materials' quality falls short, and potential purchasers might notice the subpar sound system.
One of the best warranties in the industry is offered by Kia. On its EVs, it provides a 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain guarantee that covers the battery pack as well. Additionally, you receive basic, corrosion, and roadside coverage for five years or 60,000 miles.
Wildcard 8.5/10 -
One of a new generation of EVs that is gradually taking over our roads is the EV6. Although it boasts unique styling that is sure to divide opinion, it is actually enjoyable to drive. However, if you're expecting for a next-generation EV experience, the cabin may come off as a touch dull to some people because it looks familiar. We believe the Tesla Model Y offers something special in this market that Kia hasn't quite nailed with the EV6 and the Ioniq 5 has a little more personality.
Which EV6 does We recommend?
For the best price, choose the Wind trim. You receive a few nice additions above the base Light trim, like a motorised liftgate, better audio, ventilated front seats, and a longer range. But the GT-Line is the way to go if you absolutely must have the most cutting-edge safety technology.
Kia EV6 models -
A small electric vehicle (EV) that straddles the crossover and hatchback divide is the 2022 Kia EV6. There are four trim options available for the EV6: Light, Wind, GT-Line, and 1st Edition. Kia provides many electric motor and battery pack configurations that produce a range of power levels. What you need to know is listed below.
Light -
RWD only with a single electric motor located at the rear (167 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque).
Battery pack having a capacity of 58 kWh.
Range on a full charge is 232 miles, according to the EPA.
GT-Line And Wind -
Stronger rear motor for RWD (225 hp).
Adds a second engine up front (combined motor output: 320 hp, 446 lb-ft of torque).
Pack of batteries: 77.4 kWh.
Range as determined by the EPA: 310 miles (RWD) or 274 miles (AWD).
1st Edition -
With the aforementioned AWD setup as standard.
Later in the model year or in 2023, an additional EV6 variant named the GT will be offered. This EV6 will have 576 horsepower and be the sport version.
Light Highlights of this base trim's features include -
Alloy 19-inch wheels.
Power-folding and heated mirrors.
Keyless start and entrance.
A steering wheel covered in leather
Automatic dual-zone climate control.
Back Air Ducts -
An adjustable power driver's seat.
Front chairs with heat.
Faux leather and cloth upholstery.
Memory settings for the driver's seat.
It also includes:
Electronic Instrumentation -
Touchscreen of 12.3 inches.
Navigational aid.
Satellite radio system with six speakers.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
USB ports on the front and back rows.
Pad for wireless charging.
Internet hotspot.
Additionally, each EV6 is equipped with a wide range of cutting-edge safety features. These consist of:
Rear cross-traffic warning with blind-spot monitoring (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse).
Help with lane keeping (steers the EV6 back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker).
Lane-keeping technology (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centred in its lane).
Autonomous cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Kia and the car in front).
Adds additional premium features, like -
Black exterior accents in gloss.
Free-standing liftgate.
Warming the steering wheel (AWD only).
Adjustable power passenger seat.
Front chairs with vents
Fake leather furniture.
Meridian premium audio system with 14 speakers.
Sensors for rear and front parking (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking).
V2L (vehicle-to-load) port (allows the EV6 to supply electricity to other items, such as portable camping gear or even other electric vehicles).
HVAC unit (AWD only, heats the cabin more efficiently than normal heater).
The Wind AWD's Technology package is an add-on that is optional and brings:
Automated parking system (manages to park with little or no driver input. can be operated using the key fob outside of the vehicle).
System of surround-view cameras (gives you a top-down view of the EV6 and its surroundings for tight parking situations).
When you turn on your turn signal, a blind-spot camera (which shows a picture of the vehicle's blind spot in the instrument panel) activates.
Automated braking in the back (applies the brakes automatically to avoid an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle).
The sporty EV6 model is represented by the GT-Line. Starting with Wind characteristics, it then includes:
Electronic Package -
Automatic opening and closing of door knobs.
Auto-dimming rearview mirror, a sunroof.
Heated back seats and a heated steering wheel (AWD only).
Auto-lane-change assistance (guides the vehicle into the next lane when the turn signal is used).
Assist with evasive steering (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance).
The adaptive cruise control system and forward collision avoidance system have more recent iterations.
Two kits are available in the GT-Line that change the upholstery of the seats. Either faux suede seats with a faux leather trim or faux leather seats with a faux suede trim are options. Additionally, if you choose the AWD model, you can choose 20-inch wheels.
1st Edition -
Only 1,500 of the 1,500 units of the First Edition will be made, and only for the 2022 model year.
Based on the AWD GT-Line (and all the improvements that go along with it), it adds:
Glacier White exterior and dark green seats; Urban Yellow exterior and black seats; Steel Matte Gray exterior and black seats) are unusual external and interior colour combinations.
Twenty-inch wheels.
Plaque with the production number in bold.
Distinctive doorjamb plates.
