Kia EV6 first drive | Facelift provides longer range

Electric vehicle (EV) technology evolves quickly, which is why Kia has updated the EV6 just three years after it first launched.

The latest version can travel further and charge faster, thanks to a new battery pack. There’s also been some styling tweaks and technology updates in order to enhance the overall package.

Competing somewhere in between the mid-size car and crossover space, the EV6 is a natural rival to the Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2 and VW ID4.

As a company car it appeals to those who require a long range, spacious and comfortable alternative to the conventional compact executive.

Despite its mainstream badge, the EV6 errs close to the premium market with good performance, impressive technology and high levels of refinement.

The updated EV6 comes in three trim grades - Air, GT Line and GT Line S - priced from £45,575.

Comfort and practicality

The EV6 sits on a platform designed specifically for electric powertrains. This means it makes the most of its external dimensions to benefit those inside. The cabin is exceptionally spacious, with a low, flat floor.

In the rear, there’s enough space to rival luxury saloons and those upfront aren’t short-changed either. Supportive seats offer plenty of adjustment. On top-spec models this is all done electrically.

The interior trims have been given a quality boost, too. There are more soft-touch materials to complement the tactile switchgear.

A large centre console provides an armrest and storage, as well has housing the gear selector and some switchgear.

At the rear, the large hatchback opens to reveal a 490-litre boot with extra storage space beneath the floor. Additional storage can be found under the bonnet.

Safety and technology

Kia often sets a benchmark for in-car technology and the EV6 is no exception. It comes loaded with kit that other manufacturers charge extra for. Notably, there’s adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, keyless entry and heated front seats.

And that’s just on the entry-level Air model. The Range-topping GT Line S comes with a head-up display, fingerprint recognition, ventilated front seats and remote parking.

Central to the EV6’s interior is its dual 12.3-inch displays. These provide all the infotainment and instrument cluster functions, as part of a fully digital cockpit.

Beneath the central screen is a neat touch-sensitive panel. This can provide quick access to the infotainment functions and includes a physical volume knob. But, at the touch of a button it becomes a climate control panel. You can switch between the two functions as required. It takes some reliance off the touchscreen, giving drivers a degree of additional control.

Driveability and range

The EV6 can be had with a single motor (RWD) or a dual motor (AWD) powertrain. Both use the same 84kWh battery.

The RWD produces 229PS and has a range of up to 361 miles. The AWD has 325PS and manages 339 miles, according to WLTP.

During our testing the RWD was returning 3.5mi/kWh, while the AWD managed 2.9mi/kWh. In order to reach the 300-mile range point, the car would need to achieve around 3.8mi/kWh. At a constant 70mph, on the motorway, neither model could manage this.

All variants are capable of high-speed charging (258kW) from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. 

Curiously, Kia has opted not to include a heat pump on the EV6. It’s available as an option, but only on the GT Line S.

To drive, the AWD is impressively quick. It gets to 62mph, from rest, in a little over five seconds. It also feels more assured in wet conditions, thanks to its all-wheel-drive.

The RWD is no slouch, however. It can still manage the 0-62mph benchmark sprint in less than eight seconds. Mid-range punch is decent, too.

At motorway speeds the EV6 provides a quiet and smooth cruise. It’s a relaxing car to drive long distances in, but this doesn’t come at the expense of agility.

While weight is apparent, the EV6 is fairly nimble for its size. On B roads it changes direction with little fuss, there’s not much body roll and plenty of grip. Ride comfort errs on the firm side, as a result of the more dynamic handling.

Company car tax and running costs

Keen pricing places the EV6 in a strong position against rivals. The entry-level Air model is well-equipped for fleets and offers low running costs of 44p per mile (4yr/80k).

All EV6 variants sit in the 2% benefit-in-kind tax band, so company car tax will cost drivers from £15 per month.