Kia is currently offers one of the best EV ranges on the market; I have driven a number and on one of the key points where they score is range. Recently, I spent a week with the 2022 Car of the Year, the EV6, and over a variety of driving conditions I achieved a range of 528km (328m). The manufacturer claims in the region of 578km (360m). I have never ever achieved the figure stated by any manufacturer for an EV.
The EV6 is just one of fifteen EVs which the South Korean carmaker will launch by 2027, a model which is currently proving to be a winner. I too often am critical of the styling of some EVs, which I would simply describe as bland and boring. Not so with this Kia though, it is both sleek and stylish; the revised front delivers a modern and dynamic appearance and with its large wheels, it delivers a wealthy helping of on road presence and during my time I had it on loan it did turn a few heads.
Living with the EV6 is a joy as it has an excellent interior; there is a good feeling of space and I liked the panoramic curved display with its sophisticated design and feel. There is a new 15W wireless charging pad; alas my aging iPhone could not avail of a charge; perhaps the time has come for an upgrade. Playing a major part in providing interior space is the E-GMP platform which means there is a totally flat floor. The combination of space and very comfy seating all adds to the pleasure of driving the EV6. There are a choice of trim levels with each one having a unique upholstery; again proving the customer with the widest possible choice.
Now to the heart of the matter and where this model scores well for me; Kia has equipped this model with the new fourth generation battery and thanks to its higher energy density, the capacity is up from 77.4kWh to 84.0kWh, hence the improved range which I experienced and this will be widely welcomed. Good news on charging, the new battery can be charged to eighty percent in eighteen minutes. I have lost count of the number of times I have set or gone off for a coffee while a vehicle is being charged and this is one of the key factors which is proving negative for many owners.
Kia does not rest on its laurels when it comes to delivering a better EV experience, but they can do little about the all too poor charging infrastructure. The EV6 is equipped with a 225bhp single motor which drives the rear wheels; there is an upgrade to all wheel drive with 320bhp; the former does deliver adequate performance with rest to 100kph (62mph) in 7.7 seconds and acceleration is ever so smooth; one of the joys of driving an EV; however I do miss the sound of a regular combustion engine, particularly when you press hard on the accelerator, but to be fair we cannot have everything. Another new addition from Kia is the latest generation regenerative braking system. This is operated by paddle shifters behind the steering wheel; you can employ this technology to quickly slow the EV6 thus recuperating kinetic energy to maximise driving range and efficacy. Finally to the practical side of the EV6, 490 litres of boot space, fold down the rear seats and a very useful 1,290 litres.
This is one EV which will find a lot of friends; I certainly enjoyed my all too short spell behind the wheel.
Ian Lynas
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