For EV-curious car shoppers, the sleek and sporty 2022 Kia EV6 represents an intriguing new option that aims to compete head-on with the likes of Tesla. As Kia‘s first ground-up electric vehicle, the EV6 makes a striking first impression with its long driving range, high-tech features and serious performance capabilities.
Let‘s take a closer look at what is turning the EV6 into one of the hottest new EVs on the market:
Overview
The Kia EV6 is a five-passenger electric crossover available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Its 58 or 77.4 kWh battery packs allow driving ranges between 232 miles on the low end up to a max of 310 miles for extended range RWD models. This puts the EV6 in the same neighborhood as Tesla‘s popular Model Y crossover.
Performance and feature content varies across four trim levels: Light, Wind, GT-Line and the upcoming 600+ HP GT edition. With pricing spanning from $41,400 on up to around $60,000 for the future GT flagship, the EV6 brings an attainable price tag to the EV table. Combine this with Kia‘s 10-year/100K mile battery and drivetrain coverage, and the EV6 makes for an intriguing Tesla alternative for shoppers.
Trim Levels and Specs
| Model | Driving Range | Horsepower | 0-60 mph Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light RWD | 232 mi | 167 HP | 8.0 sec | $41,400 |
| Wind RWD | 310 mi | 225 HP | 7.2 sec | $47,500 |
| Wind AWD | 274 mi | 320 HP | 5.2 sec | $51,400 |
| GT-Line RWD | 310 mi | 225 HP | 7.2 sec | $51,700 |
| GT-Line AWD | 274 mi | 320 HP | 5.2 sec | $56,400 |
| GT (est) | TBA | 576 HP | < 3.5 sec | $60,000+ (est) |
Table showing driving range, horsepower and acceleration times for each EV6 trim level
This wide range of configurations allows buyers to prioritize driving range or acceleration and handling. The upcoming GT model promises genuine supercar-like performance with its 576 horsepower and sub-3.5 second 0-60 mph acceleration.
Cutting-Edge Style and Tech
Beyond just numbers, the EV6 impresses with its innovative features and head-turning style inside and out. The aggressive exterior design looks more performance coupe than family hauler, while the modern interior is filled with technology:
- Dual 12.3" curved touch displays for instrumentation and infotainment
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability
- Available AR heads-up display and digital side mirrors
- Over-the-air software update capability
- Multi-color ambient interior lighting zones
- Meridian audio system with active noise cancellation
Range and Charging Capabilities
The big question for any EV shopper is "How far can I drive before needing to recharge?" For the EV6, that answer spans anywhere from 232 miles on the low end, to a max of 310 miles for the RWD extended range models. This bests the Tesla Model Y‘s estimated 326 miles of range.
In addition, the EV6‘s 800-volt electrical architecture enables compatible 350 kW DC fast charging that can takes an empty battery to 80% charge in under 18 minutes. For someone needing to cover long distances with minimal stopping time, this rapid charging capacity is a key advantage.
Engaging Performance
The EV6 further distances itself from the perceptions of boring, appliance-like EVs when you experience its performance. The available dual-motor 320 HP AWD system propels the EV6 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds – genuine sports car acceleration. Agile handling from the low center of gravity and limited slip differential give it legitimate corner-carving prowess as well.
While EVs often focus solely on efficiency, Kia clearly worked to make the EV6 just as rewarding to drive quickly as its gas-powered competition.
Value Proposition and Ownership Costs
For many shoppers, the EV6 will come down to its value as an affordable Tesla alternative. Including potential federal tax credits of up to $7,500 for meeting US assembly and domestic content rules, the EV6 delivers similar performance and technology to Tesla models costing $15-20K more. Exact tax credit eligibility remains to be seen, but the base price undercuts the Model Y significantly.
Projecting total 5 year ownership costs with average US mileage and electricity costs, buyers would save roughly $5,800 in fuel costs over 50k miles versus an equivalent gas-powered vehicle. Subtract another $7,500 for available tax credits, and the EV6 provides outstanding value for eco-minded buyers through 2028 when credits phase down. Of course, cost analyses can vary based on your specific electric rates and duration of ownership.
||2022 Tesla Model Y AWD|2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD|
|:-:|:-:|:-:|
|Base Price |$65,990 |$56,400 |
|Est. Fuel Costs (50k mi.)|$3,470|$0|
|Potential Tax Credit |$0 |$7,500|
|Total Cost (5 years) | $69,460|$56,400|
Cost comparison: Tesla Model Y vs. Kia EV6 over 50,000 miles
The Verdict
For buyers seeking alternatives to Tesla with equal or better technology, performance and driving range, the impressive new Kia EV6 checks off all the boxes. Early reviews and sales data confirm its winning blend of cutting-edge EV capability with sporty driving dynamics.
Given its strong initial value proposition versus Tesla models, and Kia‘s outstanding 10-year drivetrain warranty, the EV6 gives pause to any EV shopper reflexively drawn to the Tesla brand cachet. Take the opportunity to test drive one for yourself and experience this rising EV star from Kia.
