2023 Kia EV6: Quick Review

The 2023 Kia EV6 heralds the South Korean automaker's first stride into battery-electric vehicles. The EV6 is a futuristic-looking crossover and a pioneer ahead of the arrival of upcoming EV9.

Crowned 2022 Wheels Car of the Year, the EV6 combines performance, style, and technology in a package that's eco-friendly, exhilarating to drive and luxurious.

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Pricing and Features

Starting at $72,590 excluding on-roads, the Kia EV6 offers a range of trims that cater to varying needs and budgets: Air, GT-Line RWD, GT-Line AWD and the flagship GT.

All grades hold the same 77.4kWh battery, which will produce 160kW and 250Nm for Air and GT-Line RWD.

A dual motor in the GT-line AWD will increase outputs to 239kW and 605Nm.

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Picking the entry-level Air will get you 19-inch alloy wheels, 528km of range, dual curved 12.3-inch displays, adaptive cruise control and a 6-speaker audio system.

This is upgraded to 20-inch alloys, 14 premium speakers, an augmented reality head-up display, heated and ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera when stepping up to the GT-Line RWD. Opting for the the AWD option will get you an added sunroof.

As you ascend the to the top of the hierarchy, the EV6 GT increases performance to a whopping 430kW and 740Nm, for an impressive 0-100km/h time of approximately 3.5 seconds.

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You'll get features fit for a flagship such as 21-inch machine-finished alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, electronic LSDs and suspension, bucket seats and matrix LED headlights.

The hero GT model is priced at $99,950 making it Kia's most expensive model currently on sale, until the EV9 goes on sale in late 2023. It will also pick up the Luxury Car Tax in its on-road costs.

Matte 'Moonscape' grey paint is available for an extra $3,295 on all grades besides the Air. Runway Red is the only no-cost paint option across the range with all other paints costing $520.

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Safety

Standard features encompass a suite of driver assistance technologies, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist and parking collision avoidance.

Pair all of that with Kia’s 7-year warranty and you’re looking at a pretty compelling reason to go electric.

The entry-grade Air misses out on blind spot monitor, safe exit assist, 360-degree camera and a couple of other safety specs however the EV6 range (except the GT) received a 5-star ANCAP rating, with a 90% score for Adult Occupant Protection.

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Key Rivals

The EV6 squares off against electric competitors such as:

• Tesla Model Y
• Ford Mustang Mach-E
• Polestar 2

In Australia's rapidly growing electric SUV segment, the EV6 positions itself as a compelling blend of performance, design, and technology.

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Should I Put It On My Shortlist?

The 2023 Kia EV6 is more than just an electric vehicle; it's a statement of intent from Kia.

If you're looking to embrace the electric future without compromising on performance or features, the EV6 is a formidable contender.

It's also super sexy.