Thanks to sky-high gas prices, there’s never been a better time to purchase an EV or hybrid. The Kia EV6 is one of the South Korean automaker’s most enticing options because of its excellent all-electric performance and range. However, some shoppers might be less impressed with the EV6’s MSRP. On the other hand, the similarly sized Kia Sportage sells for $15,000 less. Even so, owners might spend more on the Sportage in the long run.

How much does it cost to own a Kia Sportage?

According to Kia, the average Sportage costs nearly $12,000 to own over five years. Most of that is the $10,405 worth of fuel you’ll buy at the pump. That’s assuming you drive only 10,000 miles each year and pay the current national average gas price of $4.37.

Kia Sportage maintenance costs are a little more reasonable at $1,400. However, the Kia EV6 might cost only $600 to maintain over the same period.

Electricity is also much cheaper than gas, averaging only 14 cents per kilowatt-hour. Over five years, you’ll probably pay only around $1,967 to recharge the EV. Even better, Electrify America offers 1,000 free kilowatt-hours of charging with every purchase of a new Kia EV6.

The 2022 Kia EV6 is a worthwhile purchase

Besides its low maintenance costs, the Kia EV6 is also highly efficient. The standard battery allows for 232 miles of range, while the larger battery has an estimated 310 miles.

In less than 20 minutes, fast-charging will reportedly restore around 217 miles of range. Frequent fast-charging might inflate your five-year electricity costs, but having the option is great in a pinch.

The standard Kia EV6 Light RWD has a single motor making 167 hp when combined with the standard battery. Opting for the larger battery allows for 225 hp. CarsGuide says these models are suitable for daily driving, but the AWD variants provide better handling.

With the dual-motor setup, the Kia EV6 can make 320 hp and zip to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The Kia EV6 GT, an upcoming high-performance variant, reportedly will have 576 hp on tap. The most powerful models are more expensive, with an AWD GT-Line costing at least $55,900.

The Kia EV6 seats five in two rows, though it has the same wheelbase measurements as the three-row Kia Telluride. That allows for a spacious cabin in the EV6. It also boasts comfortable upholstery options and cutting-edge technology. However, CarsGuide was surprised to find only one USB-A charging port.

Is the Kia Sportage still a good car?

CarsGuide gave the Kia Sportage a higher overall rating than the Kia EV6. The Sportage’s 240-hp turbo-four, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, is reportedly the most responsive option. It’s fast and lithe around corners, keeping turbo lag to a minimum.

Though the EV6’s power delivery is smooth, its steering doesn’t supply satisfying feedback. The Sportage’s steering is more precise, though you’ll have to exert more force into your maneuvers.

The turbo engine’s gas mileage is disappointing, rated for up to 20/28 mpg city/highway. The base engine is slower without any turbo power, but it gets 23/30 mpg city/highway.

The Kia Sportage also provides a modern cabin with plenty of room for everyone to stretch out. Admittedly, it poses several minor annoyances, such as limited interior storage and subpar windshield wipers. However, CarsGuide was still satisfied with all of the Sportage’s standard features.

This summer, Kia will release the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid. Because it will still rely on some gasoline, the Kia EV6 should still have the lowest ownership costs of the three models.