Kia first launched the EV6 back in 2021 and has sold over 210,000 units so far. Now after nearly 2 years, Kia has given the EV6 a mid-cycle update with many important features to stay ahead of the competition. The refreshed Kia EV6 debuted in South Korea recently and brings meaningful exterior and interior improvements.
The EV6 was Kia’s first long range mass market electric vehicle. With a range of up to 310 miles, it received wide acceptance globally. However, newer rivals have been launching with more powerful batteries and features. The facelifted EV6 aims to address this by offering an increased battery capacity along with new design elements and technologies.
The new Kia EV6 comes with a host of great new features that will enhance user experience. It now packs an 84 kWh battery, nearly 10% larger than the previous 77.4 kWh unit. This increased battery capacity allows driving range to be extended up to 307 miles, around 6% more than before.
Additional features include a 12-inch HUD, digital cluster with updated interface, new LED daytime running lights, adaptive cruise control, remote smart parking assist and enhanced driver assistance systems. The battery supports 350kW fast charging, helping charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes only. These upgrades are sure to attract more customers looking for an electric car with the latest technologies and driving range.
The new EV6 comes with redesigned headlights that feature Kia’s signature C-shaped lighting pattern on both sides. This new lighting signature enhances the visual identity of the car. The front and rear bumpers have also been reworked aerodynamically to reduce drag. It now rides 20mm lower than before for a sportier stance.
The EV6 gets a new digital instrument cluster with a sharper 12.3-inch display and supportive ergonomic seating wrapped in high-quality Nappa leather. The rear seats have additional sound-proofing material and adjustable headrests for added comfort on long drives. Ambient mood lighting enhances the premium feel.
The EV6’s electric motors have been re-engineered for quicker acceleration and higher torque output. The RWD versions can now sprint from 0-60mph in less than 5 seconds. The AWD variants boast an enhanced dual-motor setup to offer seamless power delivery through all speeds.
An upgraded 84kWh battery provides a 35% increase in energy storage capacity. This facilitates over 300 miles of driving range on a single charge. The lithium-ion cells offer higher energy density and faster charging ability than before for convenience.
Advanced connectivity features through a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen enables over-the-air updates. The driver gets live traffic updates and augmented reality navigation assist on the new digital instrument display. The vehicle can be started through a smartphone digital key as well for contactless entry.
The facelifted EV6 is set to launch in South Korea next month. While the launch date for North American markets is still to be announced, it is expected to debut there later this year, around the fourth quarter of 2023 which is 75% into the year. In the US, the outgoing EV6 is priced from $59,183 to $79,683 for different variants.
In India, the EV6 was launched in October 2022 with prices ranging from Rs. 59.95 lakh to Rs. 65.95 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It received an enthusiastic response despite being a full import then. With local assembly now being planned, the facelift version is expected to get more affordable for the Indian market when launched next year. This will help boost its sales performance.
With its many new features, the EV6 mid-cycle update will attract more customers and help Kia compete effectively against newer rivals. The EV6 still promises to offer great driving range and quick charging at an affordable price in various markets worldwide. Its advanced technologies and design make it an electric crossover worth waiting for.
The upgraded powertrain and battery will enhance performance and experience for current owners as well. With continued success of the model, Kia is likely to accelerate its EV plans and offerings further. The company seems focused on consolidating its electric mobility leadership.