The electric vehicle (EV) market has exploded in recent years, with most major automakers now offering fully battery-powered models. As consumer interest in EVs continues to grow, competition between different makes and models is heating up. Two electric crossovers that have been generating buzz are the 2023 Kia EV6 and 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge. So how do these electric SUVs stack up? Read on for a detailed comparison.
Overview and Pricing
First, a high-level overview of specs and pricing:
| Specs | Kia EV6 | Volvo XC40 Recharge |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $47,000 | $53,990 |
| Electric Range | 232-310 miles | 223 miles |
| Peak Power | 576 hp | 402 hp |
| 0-60 mph Time | 3.4-7.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Maximum Charging Speed | 10-80% in 18 minutes | 10-80% in 37 minutes |
The Kia edges out the Volvo when it comes to both base pricing and electric driving range. The EV6 also offers significantly more powerful performance variants, while the XC40 Recharge delivers decent mid-range acceleration.
Exterior Design
In terms of exterior aesthetics, both SUVs have attractive, swept-back shapes characteristic of modern EVs. The Kia EV6 has a sportier, more aggressive stance, aided by its low-slung coupe-like roofline. The Volvo XC40 Recharge looks boxier and more upright, reflecting its roots as a traditional internal combustion engine crossover adapted to full electrification.
Winner: Kia EV6 for its fluid, eye-catching curves tailored specifically for an electric powertrain.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the EV6 feels spacious and airy, with slim seats to maximize passenger room. The XC40 offers slightly less room, but remains comfortable for four adults. Both vehicles come well-equipped with premium technology features such as large touchscreens, digital gauge clusters, and advanced driver assistance systems. The Volvo probably wins out when it comes to interior luxury and refinement, feeling more expensive with available upgrades like leather upholstery and a Harmon Kardon audio system. However, the Kia delivers excellent comfort and tech for the money.
Winner: Tie. The Volvo is more upscale but the Kia impresses with its interior space utilization.
Performance and Handling
Performance is where these electric SUVs differ the most. The base Kia EV6 is no slouch, delivering a peppy enough 0-60 mph time of 7.2 seconds. But the high-powered GT-Line and GT versions with dual-motor AWD are genuinely quick – we‘re talking supercar-rivaling 3.4 second 0-60 sprints. The Volvo XC40 Recharge posts a manufacturer estimated 4.7 seconds for 0-60 mph, whichlines up with independent testing. This makes the Volvo reasonably fast in its own right. When it comes to handling prowess though, the lower Kia EV6 feels more buttoned down and responsive. Overall drivability favors the Kia.
Winner: Kia EV6 for its thrilling acceleration and engaging road manners.
Charging Considerations
Both SUVs support DC fast charging rates up to around 150-180kW. This allows charging an empty battery to 80% in 18 minutes for the Kia or 37 minutes in the Volvo‘s case. For home charging, the Kia‘s optional 19.2kW onboard charger can fully recharge in under four hours on a 240V outlet. The Volvo makes do with an 11.5 kW charger requiring over eight hours for a full charge. When factoring in the EV6’s superior electric driving range, it gives drivers added flexibility.
Winner: Kia EV6 thanks to faster charging capabilities and more miles per charge.
Utility and Cargo Space
The Volvo XC40 enjoys one key utility advantage over the Kia EV6 – towing capacity. While the EV6 can tug small trailers and boats weighing up to 1,600 pounds, the XC40 Recharge can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. For cargo room, the XC40 offers 57 cubic feet of space with its rear seats folded down to the EV6’s 53 cubic feet. Rear seat legroom is similar in both vehicles. If maximum towing ability is a priority, the Volvo wins out. But the Kia still hauls plenty of everyday cargo.
Winner: Volvo XC40 thanks to its brawny tow rating up to 3,500 pounds.
Safety Technology
You expect high safety standards from a Volvo, but Kia has been making enormous strides in this department in recent years. Both SUVs feature the latest advanced driver assistance systems as standard equipment, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and more. Volvo does offer some additional high-tech safety options, but the EV6 itself performed extremely well in crash testing, earning Top Safety Pick Plus status. You’d be well protected in either vehicle.
Winner: Tie. Hard to beat Volvo’s safety reputation, but Kia is now among the industry leaders too.
Verdict: Kia EV6 Wins for Most Shoppers
For the majority of electric vehicle shoppers without heavy towing requirements, the Kia EV6 makes the most overall sense. It offers superior performance and driving range at a more affordable price point. The Volvo XC40 Recharge still rates as a strong luxury EV option – some buyers will prefer its refined cabin, brand prestige, and rugged towing capabilities. But the value-packed Kia EV6 takes the win here, blending excitement, cutting-edge capability and everyday liveability into a single appealing package.
In the rapidly evolving EV marketplace, the Kia EV6 stands out as one of the most well-rounded options for an electric daily driver. Test drive one for yourself and you’ll see why it earns top marks.
