The Kia EV6 arrived in 2021 as a pioneering all-electric crossover, immediately attracting attention with its bold (sometimes polarising) styling, advanced technology, and impressive range. Positioned as a flagship, the EV6 not only highlights the brand’s technological progress, but also offers a compelling alternative to established premium EVs. With its distinctive lines and cutting-edge features, the EV6 competes directly with the likes of the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Volkswagen ID.4. Its combination of practicality, performance, and value – not to mention Kia’s celebrated aftersales support – has made it a favourite among British buyers.
The EV6 set a new benchmark for Kia and for other cars in its class, nurturing stylish design, technology, and practicality alongside an engaging electric drive. Its combination of performance, range, and ultra-rapid charging makes it one of the most desirable electric crossovers on the market and one of the most sought-after as a used car.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioA brand-new Kia EV6 starts from around £45,585 for the entry-level Air trim, rising to over £58,070 for the high-performance GT. All variants come generously equipped, and there are a few option packs to spec them further if required. On the used market, early examples now start from approximately £22,000on AA Cars, offering substantial savings over new and a strong value proposition thanks to Kia’s long warranty, transferable between owners, and its high specification and performance.
The EV6 is available exclusively with electric powertrains. Buyers can choose between a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup and a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration, both powered by a 77.4kWh battery. The entry-level RWD model produces 226 bhp and accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds, which will be plenty enough for most, while the AWD version delivers 321 bhp, reducing the 0-62 time to just 5.2 seconds. The range-topping EV6 GT boasts a staggering 577 bhp and rockets from 0-62 mph in only 3.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest electric cars in its class, matched by the Tesla Model 3 and MG IM5. Official WLTP ranges span from 263 miles (GT AWD) up to 328 miles (RWD Air). All models support ultra-rapid charging, with the 800V architecture enabling a 10–80% charge in as little as 18 minutes on a 350kW charger, if you can find one, or under 30 minutes on a 150kW unit.
The EV6 is a fantastic car to drive in almost every situation. Around town, its near-silent electric motors and instant torque make for effortless urban driving, while the elevated seating position and slim pillars offer good visibility through the front, though the narrow rear screen does limit your rearward view if using the mirror – though it is offset by the use of cameras. Light steering and a tight turning circle aid manoeuvrability, complemented by front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera as standard. On A-roads and motorways, the EV6 feels composed and stable, with excellent suppression of wind and road noise – it’s beautifully refined at speed and is as composed and relaxed as premium rivals, such as the Jaguar I-Pace. Performance models, especially the GT, provide thrilling acceleration and sharp responses, while even the base models deliver smooth and eager progress.
Kia has struck a brilliant balance between comfort and agility with the EV6. The floor-mounted battery ensures a low centre of gravity, boosting both stability and handling. Steering, meanwhile, is precise and responsive, with confidence-inspiring handling through bends. The ride remains mostly composed, though larger wheels on higher trims can introduce a firmer feel over rougher surfaces. Body control is impressive for a family crossover, and the GT model brings in adaptive suspension, further enhancing ride comfort and dynamic ability. Overall, the EV6 feels assured and engaging, without sacrificing day-to-day comfort.
and Features Interior Climb aboard the EV6 and you’re greeted by a modern, spacious cabin with a strong emphasis on technology. A sweeping dashboard houses twin 12.3-inch curved displays for both the driver’s instruments and infotainment system, complemented by touch-sensitive controls and configurable ambient lighting. Materials feel sturdy and solid, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and recycled plastics, though some of the latter lack the quality feel found on some rivals. Faux (or ‘vegan’) leather upholstery is available, and the cabin is airy, thanks to a flat floor and generous headroom. Front and rear passengers enjoy ample space, and there are Isofix points on the outer rear seats, but the sloping roofline compromises space a little for rear-seat passengers.
and Practicality The EV6 offers a 490-litre boot, expanding to 1,300 litres with the rear seats folded. While a few rivals edge it on outright capacity, rear-wheel-drive EV6s counter this with a decent-sized ‘frunk’ (front trunk) providing up to 52 litres of extra storage, perfect for charging cables or small bags. The rear seats split and fold almost flat, and a low loading lip and powered tailgate (on higher trims) make loading straightforward. There’s also plenty of in-cabin storage, including cupholders, generous door bins, and a large centre console, plus a wireless phone charging pad.
Every EV6 is well equipped. Entry-level models include dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and steering wheel, sat-nav, full smartphone integration, keyless entry and start, adaptive cruise control, and a suite of driver assistance systems. Higher trims add a Meridian premium sound system, panoramic sunroof, augmented reality head-up display, 360-degree parking camera, and additional luxury and tech features. Over-the-air software updates keep the infotainment system current and add new functionality over time.
The EV6 range consists of several well-equipped trims: Air (RWD), GT-Line (RWD/AWD), GT-Line S (RWD/AWD), and the flagship GT (AWD). The entry-level Air comes with 19-inch alloys, LED headlights, twin 12.3-inch screens, and comprehensive connectivity and driver assistance tech. GT-Line models add sportier styling, larger wheels, privacy glass, upgraded upholstery, and extra features such as wireless charging. GT-Line S brings a panoramic sunroof, Meridian audio, ventilated seats, remote smart parking, and a powered tailgate. The range-topping GT model boasts unique 21-inch alloys, adaptive suspension, high-performance brakes, and GT-specific styling cues. Inside, it features sports seats, suede inserts, and exclusive technology including an augmented reality head-up display. Colour choices include a palette of vibrant and subtle finishes, such as Runway Red, Yacht Blue, Interstellar Grey, Midnight Black, and Snow White Pearl, allowing buyers to tailor the EV6 to their individual taste.
The EV6 has achieved a full five-star Euro NCAP rating, with strong scores for adult and child occupant protection: 90% for adult occupants, 86% for child occupants, 64% for vulnerable road users, and 87% for safety assist systems. A comprehensive suite of standard safety features includes multiple airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot collision avoidance, and intelligent speed limit assist. Early reports suggest solid reliability, and Kia’s long warranty and reputation for dependable engineering should further reassure buyers – we certainly haven’t seen many reports of breakdown or failure. The high-voltage battery is covered for seven years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
As a fully electric vehicle, the EV6 emits zero tailpipe emissions. Efficiency ranges from 3.2-3.9 miles per kWh, which isn’t bad at all for such a large car, delivering a real-world range of 230-300 miles, depending on battery, drivetrain, ambient conditions and driving style. Charging is rapid: on a 350kW charger, the EV6 can top up from 10–80% in as little as 18 minutes. Home charging with a 7.4 kW wall box takes roughly 11 hours for a full charge. The EV6 qualifies for the lowest first-year VED (£10), but the Expensive Car Supplement applies, meaning years two to five cost £620 annually, reverting to £195 thereafter. Insurance groups span 34 to 44, reflecting the car’s performance and specification and putting it among the more expensive models in its class. Servicing is required every two years or 20,000 miles, and Kia’s standard seven-year/100,000-mile warranty offers excellent peace of mind, covering both the car and high-voltage battery. It’s also transferable between owners.
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