Overview

The 2022 Kia EV6 is the company’s first dedicated EV, and the striking crossover is built on the same Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that will underpin a slew of new Kia EVs. With an estimated range of up to 310 miles and quick charging rates thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the EV6 is an example of the expanding choices and capabilities of the latest electric vehicles. It also offers two different batteries, rear- or all-wheel drive, and between 167 and 576 horsepower. The latter applies to the range-topping EV6 GT, which allegedly can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. The 2022 EV6’s assertive bodywork and attractive cabin make it more interesting than its unimaginative name suggests.

What’s New for 2022?

Kia says that it plans to build 11 new electric vehicles by 2026, with the first being the new 2022 EV6. Now that we’ve seen its sleek exterior and handsome interior designs and learned more about its specifications we just have to wait until the first models start arriving in dealerships early next year.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Available with a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle or an electric motor on both axles, the EV6 can be configured with rear- or all-wheel drive. While all-wheel-drive models have the larger battery pack and either 320 or 576 total horsepower, the base rear-drive example has a smaller battery and just 167 horses. Opting for the bigger battery boosts the rear-drive EV6’s total system output to 225 horses. We drove a GT-Line AWD in Europe and enjoyed its satisfying acceleration, agile handling, and adjustable regenerative brake settings. Those seeking maximum straight-line performance will appreciate the 576-hp GT, which has an estimated zero-to-60-mph time that’s under 3.5 seconds.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The Kia EV6 offers two battery sizes: a 58.0-kWh and a 77.4-kWh pack. Obviously, the larger of those will provide a longer driving range. The smaller, standard battery has an EPA-rated range of 232 miles; the larger, long-range battery is EPA-rated at up to 310 miles. Along with an operating voltage of 800 volts, Kia says its battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in under 18 minutes when plugged into a 350-kW fast charger. This same setup is also said to add 70 miles in less than 5 minutes. The 11-kW onboard charger is expected to refill the battery from 10 to 100 percent in 7 hours when hooked up to a Level 2 outlet.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Every single-motor EV6 has a combined EPA rating of up to 117 MPGe; the dual-motor variant is rated at 105 MPGe. Once we can test both setups on our 75-mph highway route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate their real-world efficiency. For more information on the EV6’s fuel economy, visit the EPA website.

Interior, Passenger Space, and Cargo

Inside, the EV6’s design and layout are not as daring as the outside, but the configuration and features look more attractive and futuristic than any other current Kia model. Although the center console doesn’t slide back and forth and there are no front-seat footrests like there are on the upcoming Ioniq 5, the EV6 mixes high-tech content such as a digitized dashboard with practical elements such as a floating center console with copious storage solutions and a large bin underneath it. Other touches that stand out are the two-tone, two-spoke steering wheel, the prominent start button on the center console, and the gold accents that are tastefully placed throughout the cockpit. The EV6 has a flat floor and a wheelbase as long as the three-row, mid-size Kia Telluride, so passenger space is generous. There are also 28 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat and 54 cubes total with the rear seatbacks folded flat. There’s more storage space under the front trunk, too, but it’s not as big as expected.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment system runs through a 12.0-inch touchscreen that’s an extension of the EV6’s 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster. However, the design and performance of the menu structure and navigation are unimpressive. Along with the ability to accept over-the-air updates and respond to myriad voice commands, the system includes popular features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Additionally, the stereo can be upgraded to the available Meridian unit with 14 speakers.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Kia packs the EV6 with a variety of standard driver-assistance technology that includes automated emergency braking and automatic high-beams. There are several other optional assists that can be added for an even safer experience. For more information about the EV6’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
• Available remote parking assist