Kia and Hyundai have made significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market with their latest offerings. The Kia EV6, in particular, has gained popularity since its launch three years ago, with over 210,000 units sold worldwide. However, with increasing competition in the EV market, Kia has decided to give the EV6 a round of updates to maintain its competitive edge.
One of the key updates to the EV6 is an increase in usable battery capacity from 77.4kWh to 84kWh, resulting in an impressive official range of 361 miles. The charging speed has also been improved, with a 10-80% top-up now achievable in just 18 minutes. These updates make the EV6 one of the longest-range electric crossovers on the market.
In terms of design, the EV6 has received subtle tweaks to bring it in line with the newer Kia EV9 flagship SUV and upcoming EV3, EV4, and EV5 models. The changes include a full-width light bar, redesigned headlights, and a tweaked splitter. While the updates may not be dramatic, they help recapture some visual excitement for the popular EV.
Inside the EV6, there have been some notable improvements as well. The gloss black plastic on the center console has been replaced with a smart new matte finish, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have finally been introduced. The steering wheel is now electronically adjustable, and there’s a fingerprint scanner for personalized seating and climate settings. However, some reviewers still find the touch controls for the climate control system challenging to use while driving.
In terms of performance, the EV6 offers a balanced chassis and engaging handling. It provides impressive acceleration without being overwhelming and delivers a smooth and controllable driving experience. The EV6 also offers various regenerative braking settings, allowing drivers to choose their preferred level of regen.
When it comes to ride and handling, the EV6 performs well. It steers precisely and inspires confidence even on narrow lanes. The ride is comfortable, although it can feel firm and busy due to the sporty tuning of the suspension. However, the cabin is well-insulated, resulting in a quiet and comfortable long-distance touring experience.
In terms of efficiency, the EV6 offers a WLTP-certified range of 328 miles, with a real-world range of 263 miles. It can utilize the fastest rapid chargers, with its 800V architecture allowing for charging speeds of up to 350kW. The EV6 also has a seven-year warranty and requires routine servicing every 10,000 miles or 12 months.
Overall, the updates to the Kia EV6 help keep it competitive in the electric SUV market. It offers impressive range and fast-charging capabilities while maintaining its individuality and dynamic appeal. However, there are still some areas for improvement, such as the reliance on touch controls and the lack of steering feel and feedback.
In conclusion, the Kia EV6 remains a highly recommendable and desirable family car. It offers a unique driving experience, impressive range, and fast-charging capabilities. With its updates, the EV6 is well-positioned to compete with its numerous rivals and is one of the most impressive EVs on the market.
