The Kia EV6 is likely one of the most distinctive new designs of the previous 12 months and, in contrast to 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 appropriate measurement inside for 4 adults. 

Versus the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which was a finalist final 12 months, we additionally discover the Kia EV6 somewhat higher on real-world vary, driving ease, and interface elements. 

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 elements that make it a superb road-trip companion. On a 350-kw CCS connector, the EV6 can get well an 80% cost in lower than 18 minutes. Whereas we’ve discovered that isn’t at all times reproducible relying on the temperature, it’s one of many sooner EVs in its class even when it’s charging on a 150-kw connector.

In driving dynamics, we’re nonetheless not wild concerning the numb steering really feel. And the bodily bundle itself isn’t good. Entrance seats really feel too propped-upward, whereas in again the door cuts are given brief shrift in the way in which of aerodynamics and styling. Taller individuals will in all probability have sufficient house 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 true row of buttons that may immediately be retasked from audio and navigation to local weather controls. 

2022 Kia EV6

Among the many three Hyundai/Kia/Genesis fashions constructed on the guardian firm’s E-GMP devoted electrical car platform, the EV6 is the one one provided in all U.S. states—with Kia taking probably the most proactive method to creating the EV6 obtainable in greater numbers from the beginning, versus the Hyundai Ioniq 5. 

The 2023 mannequin 12 months 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 all the way 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 comfortable to see Kia can also be exhibiting that electrical can outperform gasoline. 

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, reviews of people that’ve managed to purchase an EV6 at sticker worth or very near it stay few and much between. 

Will the Kia EV6 prime our different 5 finalists and turn into our Greatest Automobile To Purchase 2023? Test again Jan. 4.