Kia’s latest EV is heading in a fresh direction
TopGear just got out of the new Kia EV6. You can read the full test report in our upcoming issue; now the highlights.
Test object: Kia EV6
Performance: Plus 77.4 kWh
Location: Marbella
Weather conditions: 24 degrees and sunny
What exactly is this?
The Kia EV6, the brand’s first fully EV developed car. It is on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, although you would not say that at first glance.
What’s so special about the Kia EV6?
Among other things, that it runs on 800 volts, can charge super fast (10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes) and that it has vehicle-to-load capabilities. So you can use it to give energy back to the grid or to charge other things with it. Now especially fun, once probably very useful.
He also looks special.
Yes, Kia has taken a new design direction: new logo, new lines. The EV6 is less extreme than its Hyundai brother, but still a striking appearance. We especially liked that rear light that also serves as a spoiler.
And inside?
Lots of space, two screens, a panel that can serve as a radio and as air conditioning. Rather flat seats, a floating center console, friendly colors and materials. The Kia EV6 is nicely put together, although the operation of its infotainment requires some practice. Of course there are driver aids and connectivity to spare.
How does the Kia EV6 drive?
Kia paid a lot of attention to the chassis. The EV6 had to be anything but good in its handling, and it succeeded wonderfully. Specially developed dampers keep its weight in check and its rear even reacts lively and bold when we throw it through the mountains. This single-engine version isn’t extremely fast (0 to 100 in 7.3 seconds), but it sure is fun. And efficient: according to WLTP specification, it can travel 528 kilometers.
What versions does the Kia EV6 come in?
You can get a smaller battery: the Dutch starting price is 44,595 euros. The version we drove costs 52,095 euros. Then there is an AWD version with two engines and 325 hp (0 to 100 in 5.2 seconds), which costs at least 54,595 euros. The bouncer will follow shortly, the EV6 GT, with 585 hp and a price of 63,595 euros.
Read our driving test of the Kia EV6 in TopGear Magazine 197, in stores from October 28!
