The foundation of the 2023 Kia EV6 electric crossover mirrors that of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, sharing a common powertrain and chassis. Yet, the EV6 sets itself apart with a sleeker profile, positioning itself in a more dynamic segment when compared to rivals such as the Tesla Model Y and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
DESIGN
The EV6, showcased in Yacht Blue during our week-long test drive, seamlessly combines the aerodynamic features commonly found in electric crossovers with a sporty design reminiscent of a European touring wagon. Its black-finished 19-inch alloy wheels not only enhance its sleekness but also accentuate the vehicle’s overall sturdiness.
Moving to the exterior details, the EV6 boasts a delicately contoured front and a rocker garnish that gracefully ascends the sides, culminating in a light bar that embraces the tailgate. The coherence of the design is further emphasized by an integrated rear roof spoiler and a rear windshield that leans back, giving the impression of a greenhouse confidently perched on the broad shoulders of the body.
Transitioning to the interior, there’s a more understated atmosphere. Unlike many electric crossovers, the EV6 doesn’t feature a panoramic glass roof; instead, it opts for an open floor plan. Kia adds a distinctive touch with a console that extends like a diving platform between the dashboard and seats.
As part of the GT-Line, our test model showcases an optional $195 white seat package, an elegant addition despite its potential impracticality for households with kids or pets. The elongated, sleek dashboard extends gracefully, sporting a horizontal design that cleverly incorporates a series of vents, effectively separating a vibrant climate control panel from an intuitively seamless infotainment system.
PERFORMANCE
The EV6 GT-Line relies on an advanced 77.4-kWh lithium-ion battery with an 800-volt architecture, delivering 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque through its standard single-motor rear-wheel drive. This configuration results in an estimated acceleration time of 6.5 seconds.
Compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6 showcases remarkable handling capabilities, sustaining stability even with an elevated ride height. Its precision-enhanced steering sets it apart from the Hyundai model, enhancing the overall cornering experience.
Emphasizing a commitment to providing a seamless and enjoyable driving experience, the Kia EV6 excels in navigating challenging landscapes, seamlessly blending performance and comfort. It’s crucial to recognize that the GT-Line, while impressive, does not represent the pinnacle of the lineup’s capabilities.
Now, enter the Kia EV6 GT, featuring a high-output dual-motor powertrain generating 576 hp and 545 lb-ft of torque. This variant proudly holds the title of Kia’s most powerful production vehicle, achieving an impressive zero to 60 mph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds.
Outperforming competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition and Tesla Model Y Performance by a slim margin of 0.1 seconds, the Kia EV6 GT establishes itself as a formidable contender. Stay tuned for our upcoming review of the 24′ version, and for details on the 23′ GT model year, click here.
RANGE
The RWD model sheds a significant 300 pounds by removing its secondary motor, resulting in a proportional dip of 95 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. According to EPA assessments, this tweak extends the car’s range by an extra 34 miles, reaching an impressive 310 miles on just one charge.
A standout aspect of the Hyundai E-GMP platform is its utilization of an 800-volt electrical system, empowering rapid charging abilities. Displaying this prowess, the EV6 taps into DC fast charging, clocking speeds of up to 350 kilowatts. This means the battery can hit an 80% charge in a mere 18 minutes, given access to a high-powered fast-charging station.
When utilizing a 10.9-kW AC charger, the battery achieves a full recharge within seven hours and 10 minutes. Additionally, the EV6 comes equipped with a standard Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) port, allowing it to supply power to your home during a power outage.
VERDICT
The 2023 Kia EV6 GT-Line RWD is priced at an MSRP of $52,900. With the addition of the GT-Line white seat package at $195, the cargo mat with luggage board at $95, and the carpeted floor mats at $175, along with transportation and other fees, the grand total reaches $54,690.
Competition
Sharing familial roots, the Ioniq 5 and EV6, though connected, may be elusive to the uninitiated. Hyundai’s meticulous craftsmanship in the Ioniq 5 seamlessly blends nostalgic aesthetics and practical hatchback sensibility, offering clever storage solutions and ample interior space.
While the Mach-E emerges as a compelling rival to the EV6, its emphasis on rear-wheel drive, sleek profile, and the inclusion of a GT performance model sets it apart with inspiration from muscular car designs.
In terms of practicality and value, the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya stand out, with the Ariya adding a hint of luxury to its interior design.
The Tesla Model Y, despite initial concerns about build quality and unconventional design, outshines competitors with remarkable technology, superior efficiency, and the unmatched convenience of its rapid charging network, placing it ahead in the electric vehicle race.
