Quick Take: 2022 Kia EV6
One of the most anticipated electric vehicles this year, the Kia EV6 is part of a large push by automakers across the globe to bring EVs into the mainstream. Made in South Korea, the EV6 is manufactured on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, which significantly opens up interior space and allows for an exterior aerodynamic design that maximizes efficiency. We sampled the EV6 for ourselves on the roads of Northern California to find out for ourselves if Kia has an EV offering that negates a gas-powered vehicle.
The EV6 we drove was a rear-wheel-drive version with a single motor generating 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque with the GT-Line trim level. Notably, this configuration gave our EV6 test vehicle a range of up to 310 miles on a full charge. In addition, the EV6 we drove had the on-board generator (handy for powering equipment on camping trips) and could charge utilizing ultra-fast DC charging (800 volts). When we put the alloy pedals down, the EV6 accelerated instantly and never left us wanting when merging onto a highway or overtaking other vehicles.
We found the interior of the EV6 both a spacious and pleasant place to be, with supportive heated and ventilated front seats wrapped in vegan leather material and suede (courtesy of the GT-Line Suede Seat Package) as well as a wide sunroof. Tech features included an augmented-reality head-up display, remote smart parking assist for getting into tight spots, and smart cruise control with machine learning capabilities. Other equipment on the EV6 were dual panoramic 12.3-inch displays for the instrument panel and navigation, a Meridian sound system, 19-inch alloy wheels, as well as a towing package for those who plan adventurous excursions.
Overall, we liked the EV6 and it presents a very viable option for those planning to switch from gas vehicles to electric. The MSRP of our test vehicle was $53,405, which places the EV6 in territory shared with upscale electric vehicles; however the EV6 has an interior and driving experience that can more than hold their own against the competition. With the electric vehicle segment constantly growing, the EV6 markedly helps change the perception of EVs.
