2022 vs. 2023 Kia EV6: What’s New?
Kia has released a lot of electrified options lately, from plug-in hybrid variants to pure EVs. So far, the automaker only has two fully electric SUVs: the subcompact Kia Niro EV and the compact EV6. The Kia EV6 is the newest of the two, released for the 2022 model year.
The 2023 Kia EV6 is largely a carryover model, which means that the automaker didn’t make many changes. However, there’s one particular reason why you might want to buy this one instead of the outgoing 2022 EV6.
Looking at the 2022 Kia EV6
The 2022 Kia EV6 comes standard with one electric motor on the rear axle that makes 167 hp. This motor can also be optioned with a bigger battery, upping the EV6’s range to 310 miles instead of the standard 232. The EV6’s single motor setup is also capable of 225 hp with the larger battery.
With two electric motors (the AWD setup), the EV6 gets 274 miles of range and makes 320 hp. Kia says that a fast-charger can restore 70% of the battery’s charge level in only 18 minutes. The GT-Line trim has a standard heat pump to keep the battery more efficient in frigid temperatures.
After examining several reviews from auto critics, U.S. News gave the Kia EV6 a near-perfect score in terms of performance. This crossover features a compliant suspension, balanced steering, and exceptional speed from the AWD model. Critics also praised this EV’s strong brakes and minimal amount of body roll.
The Wind trim rides on 19-in wheels and the GT-Line gets 20-in wheels. The interior looks surprisingly basic compared to other EVs, but the five seats offer adequate support. Heated and ventilated front seats are standard on all trims, as well as dual-zone climate control.
Every trim has a 12.3-inch center touchscreen allowing you to access smartphone integration. Some attractive available features include a sunroof, remote parking, and a head-up display with augmented reality elements.
The 2022 Kia EV6 vs. the 2023 Kia EV6
Comparing the two cars on U.S News, we can see that the 2023 EV6 saw a $1,500 price increase. That’s because the more affordable Light trim was discontinued.
For 2023, the Wind model is now your cheapest option, starting at around $48,500. For 2023, the GT trim is the most expensive end of the lineup and retails for around $61,400.
The 2023 Kia EV6 GT is available now
According to Kia, the EV6 GT has dual-electric motors capable of 576 hp and 545 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with AWD and the ability to reach 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. However, the GT trim is also the least efficient of the lineup with just 206 miles of range.
Still, all of the GT’s performance enhancements easily give it the best handling. It has high-performance brakes (including quad-piston front calipers), an adaptive suspension, an electronic limited rear-slip differential, and performance tires attached to 21-in wheels. This model also comes with a special drive mode optimized for drifting.
In addition to meaner exterior styling, the Kia EV6 GT includes a flat-bottom steering wheel and bucket sports seats. The black suede seats have exclusive neon green accents to match the GT switch on the steering wheel. You’ll also get all of the extra convenience and safety features available for the two lower trims.
The Kia EV6 GT isn’t the only sporty EV on the market, and a lot of them get better range estimates. For example, the Tesla Model Y is the same size as the EV6 and can be driven for at least 330 miles on a single charge.
However, we can still appreciate the Kia EV6 GT’s eye-catching interior and sporty mechanical upgrades. While there aren’t any substantial changes for the 2023 model year, it’s still worth checking one out.
