Kia UK has unveiled the latest iteration of its pioneering electric crossover, the EV6, now available for order as of September 2, 2024. This new model retains the popular three-grade lineup—‘Air,’ ‘GT-Line,’ and ‘GT-Line S’—but introduces significant enhancements that elevate its performance, range, and overall driving experience.
At the heart of the new EV6 is an upgraded 84.0kWh battery pack, a considerable improvement over its predecessor. This larger battery not only extends the vehicle’s range but also supports faster charging times, underscoring Kia’s commitment to advancing electric vehicle technology. All three grades of the EV6 are equipped with this new battery, making long-distance electric travel more accessible and practical for a wider range of drivers.
Performance and Range: Tailored to Every Driver’s Needs
The entry-level EV6 ‘Air’ is priced from £45,575 and offers a robust 225bhp single motor, rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration. This setup allows the ‘Air’ to achieve an impressive range of up to 361 miles on a single charge, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing range and efficiency.
For drivers seeking a sportier experience, the ‘GT-Line’ variant, starting at £48,575, introduces the option of an all-wheel drive (AWD) dual-motor configuration. With 320bhp and 605Nm of torque, the AWD ‘GT-Line’ accelerates from 0-62mph in just 5.3 seconds while still offering a substantial range of up to 339 miles. The ‘GT-Line S,’ which tops the range, further enhances this performance with additional luxury features, and is available from £53,675 in RWD form or £57,175 in AWD form.
Despite the increased power and acceleration of the AWD variants, the EV6 maintains competitive ranges, with the ‘GT-Line S’ AWD capable of up to 324 miles on a single charge. Additionally, the ‘GT-Line S’ offers an optional heat pump, which optimizes battery efficiency in colder climates—a feature particularly beneficial for UK drivers.
Cutting-Edge Charging Technology
One of the standout features of the new EV6 is its improved charging capability. Thanks to cutting-edge 800V technology, the EV6 can achieve a peak charging performance of 258kW—an 8% improvement over the previous model. This allows the battery to be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, while a 15-minute charge can add up to 343 kilometers of range. These advancements significantly reduce downtime, making the EV6 a more viable option for long-distance journeys.
Premium Features Across the Lineup
Kia has ensured that every EV6 model comes generously equipped with a range of premium features, enhancing both comfort and convenience. Standard across all grades are LED lighting, automatic headlight control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual 12.3-inch displays for both driver information and navigation. The EV6 also boasts advanced driver assistance systems, including Smart Cruise Control with stop/go functionality, Lane Keep Assist, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.
For those opting for the ‘GT-Line’ or ‘GT-Line S,’ additional luxuries such as wireless mobile phone charging, electric front seats with memory function, and a Meridian Premium Sound system with 14 speakers are included. The top-tier ‘GT-Line S’ also features a smart power tailgate, a customizable Head-Up Display (HUD), and the latest in parking assistance technology.
A Future-Forward Vision
The new Kia EV6 is a critical component of Kia’s broader ‘Plan S’ strategy, which aims to launch 15 electric vehicles by 2027, with nine destined for the UK market. This ambitious plan builds on the foundation laid by the original EV6, which debuted in 2021 to widespread acclaim, including being named the 2022 Car of the Year.
With its enhanced range, improved charging capabilities, and a suite of advanced features, the new Kia EV6 represents a significant step forward in electric mobility. As the order books open and customer deliveries commence in Q3 2024, the EV6 is poised to solidify its position as a leader in the electric vehicle market, offering a refined and exhilarating driving experience for UK customers.
