Kia EV6 Named 2022’s Most Appealing Compact SUV
If you’re a fan of the Kia EV6, you now have an extra reason to get one, with J.D. Power naming the 2022 model year the most appealing compact SUV of the year. Examples of other SUVs with similar accolades include the 2022 BMW X6, 2022 Genesis GV70, and 2022 Infiniti QX60 in the Upper Midsize Premium SUV, Compact Premium SUV, and Midsize Premium SUV categories, respectively. As for the 2022 Kia EV6, here’s why this accolade is so impressive.
Why you should be impressed by the 2022 Kia EV6
According to J.D. Power, the 2022 Kia EV6 is the most appealing option not just among EVs but among all compact SUVs in the market. In a segment with options like the Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5, this is quite an impressive feat. It also beats electric competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, with which it shares a platform, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Some things that make it so competitive in the market include ultra-fast charging capabilities, RWD and AWD configurations, a sizeable cargo section, and up to 310 miles of range. The consumer research company has also done a full review of the electric SUV. Here are the main takeaways on the different aspects of the car.
The design, comfort, and utility of the EV6
J.D. Power notes that the EV’s design is unique since it shares aspects of SUVs and smaller car segments. As such, it isn’t surprising the federal government classifies it as a station wagon rather than an SUV.
The interior and exterior design are top-notch, with aspects such as the 100% vegan leather seats adding a little pizzazz to the vehicle. Also, the cabin is spacious and comfortable with an impressive center console and sleek driver information and infotainment 12.3-inch screens placed next to each other.
Buyers get 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet, with the rear seats folded. This is in addition to extra storage space at the front of the vehicle.
The only thing people can nitpick about in the car’s interior design is the plastic dashboard. However, like the seats, this plastic is made of recycled material and looks good in the car.
The Kia EV6’s technology and safety features
The dual 12.3-inch panels on the dashboard of the Kia EV6 are not just for show and are intuitive, responsive, and come with clear icons. Also, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come fully integrated.
Some unique features you might find helpful include last-mile navigation and Find-My-Car. The former provides walking directions for when you exit the car, while the other can take images of the car’s surroundings to help you locate it.
You can even use smartwatches to check the car’s battery status and voice assistants like Google or Amazon Alexa to control car climate, among other car functions.
Buyers also get advanced driving assistance systems with features like adaptive cruise control, highway driving assist, automatic emergency stop assistance, etc.
However, like with the design, comfort, and utility segment, there’s one minor gripe to deal with. The climate control knob also adjusts the volume, which can lead to some issues.
The Kia EV6 driving experience
Regarding the driving experience, the 2022 Kia EV6 electric SUV is quick off the line, given the instant torque, and feels smooth on the road. This applies to the 320-hp dual motor system and the less powerful 225-hp rear-drive alternative. Also, with its low center of gravity, thanks to the positioning of the battery pack, it feels very composed when taking corners.
There are multiple drive modes to pick from depending on whether you want quick acceleration, more range, or something else. Lastly, drivers can choose the regenerative braking level to match their driving style.
