Kia EV6 Facelift: Perfecting an Electric Success Story

The launch of the EV6 marked a bold new chapter for Kia, and with its facelift, the pioneering electric crossover is poised to stay ahead. With fresh design touches and technical upgrades, the EV6 is ready to lead Kia’s electric future.

Updated Looks, Same Bold Presence

First introduced in 2021, the EV6 set a new standard, both for Kia and the electric segment. Built on the advanced 800-volt e-GMP platform, it stood out among volume manufacturers. This 4.70-meter-long crossover retains its dimensions, but the facelift brings sharper headlights, a sleek winged bumper design, and active air flaps on the front grille.

Inside, the spacious cabin has also received a refresh. Kia kept the hard, minimalist surfaces while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship, and the dual 12.3-inch displays are still central to the dashboard. Controls for the climate and heated seats remain tactile, while most functions are accessible through the main touchscreen. With sustainable materials, like recycled PET for the cargo cover, and improved infotainment, sound, and phone charging, the EV6’s interior combines comfort with eco-friendly design. The generous legroom in the back benefits from the EV6’s long wheelbase, making it a practical choice for families.

Powertrain and Battery Upgrades

The EV6 lineup continues to offer various configurations: a 125 kW (170 hp) rear-wheel-drive base model with a smaller battery, a 168 kW (229 hp) rear-wheel-drive version with the larger battery, and a 239 kW (325 hp) all-wheel-drive version, along with the sporty GT model. Notably, Kia has introduced new-generation battery cells with greater energy density. The standard-range EV6 now has a 63-kWh battery, while the long-range version steps up to 84 kWh from the previous 77-kWh battery. These upgrades push the WLTP range from 394 to 428 km for the base model, while the long-range model now achieves 582 km on a full charge.

The electric system improvements extend to charging, with DC fast-charging power increased from 239 to 258 kW. This allows the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes, providing a 343 km range in the process.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

In Germany, EV6 sales are split evenly between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, so we focused on the more affordable 168 kW (229 hp), 350 Nm RWD model. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and topping out at 185 km/h, it’s a capable, well-rounded performer. While the EV6 offers three driving modes, the differences are subtle, with the same top speed available across modes. Steering is responsive, but changes between modes make only a slight difference in throttle response. Kia added an innovative feature for braking, allowing drivers to choose between two levels of brake assistance. The „Sport“ setting offers a more direct feel, while „Normal“ has a slower, less responsive touch. A shortcut to toggle between these braking modes would make it even easier to use.

Noise isolation has improved as well, with more sound-absorbing foam around the wheel wells and motor, creating a Lexus-like cabin quietness. The ride quality, always firm to control body roll, is enhanced by new electronic dampers that smooth out rougher road surfaces, a previous weak spot for the EV6. Priced from €49,900, the updated EV6 is a refined cruiser.

Range and Efficiency

Kia claims a range of 560 km and a WLTP consumption rate of 16.9 kWh/100 km for the 229-hp version. Our test drive averaged a consumption of 22 kWh/100 km, a result of spirited driving rather than a leisurely cruise. In typical daily driving, the EV6 should easily achieve under 20 kWh per 100 km, translating to over 500 km of range.