Last updated on September 4th, 2024 at 02:29 pm
Kia Motors has unveiled the latest iteration of its groundbreaking electric vehicle, the 2024 EV6, which will soon be available to order in the United Kingdom. The refresh model (which is set to hit UK roads in the third quarter of 2024), promises a combination of enhanced performance, increased range and a trio of trims to cater to varying preferences and budgets. What seems strange is that – in light of growing evidence that the UK market is looking for increased value and lower EV prices – Kia has gone the other way and raised the launch price by around £5,000 – compared to the original EV6 launch price of £40,895 back in 2021. However, the company claims that inflation has created upward pressure on many EVs in the market. Has this multi-award winning car got the cachet to carry this (apparent) price increase?
The landscape for EVs has been changing for quite sometime. When the original EV6 landed in 2021, many buyers were considering the Tesla Model 3, VW ID.4 and the Audi e-tron. Against that backdrop, the EV6 represented great value with its promise of an 80% charge in 18 minutes on 800v technology. These days, there is a lot more competition and downward price pressure has never been stronger.
To put the revised EV6 price into context, you can get a Volvo EX30 for about £12,000 less. Sure, the specs won't be identical, but this is the kind of comparison that will be invited by Kia's price positioning. To help fight the EX30, Kia will bring the new EV3 to market around the £36,000 mark before November. While the new EV6 feels expensive when compared to various models from Volvo, MG and Stellantis, it's certainly a lot cheaper than its ‘big brother brand' options from Genesis.
A Refined Line-up for the UK Market
Continuing the success of its predecessor, the new Kia EV6 is available in three distinct grades: ‘Air,' ‘GT-Line,' and ‘GT-Line S.' Each model offers a host of features that come as standard, reflecting Kia's commitment to providing high levels of comfort, safety, and technology across its range.
The entry-level ‘Air' model is priced from £45,575 and features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system powered by a single electric motor. This setup delivers 225bhp and 350Nm of torque, offering an impressive range of up to 361 miles on a single charge, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balance of performance and efficiency.
For those desiring a sportier look and feel, the ‘GT-Line' and ‘GT-Line S' variants are available, with the latter topping the range. Both trims offer the choice between the standard RWD and an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. The AWD models significantly boost performance, with a dual-motor setup generating a total of 320bhp and 605Nm of torque. Despite the added power, the ‘GT-Line' AWD model can still achieve a range of up to 339 miles, while the ‘GT-Line S' AWD offers a slightly reduced range of 324 miles due to its higher equipment levels.
Enhanced Battery and Charging Capabilities
One of the key upgrades in the new EV6 is the larger 84kWh battery pack, which is now standard across all variants. This larger battery not only extends the vehicle's range but also improves its charging capabilities. The new EV6 benefits from advanced 800V technology, enabling a peak charging performance of 258kW, an 8% increase over its predecessor. This means the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, with drivers able to gain up to 343 kilometres of range in a mere 15 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging electric vehicles in its class.
Additionally, the ‘GT-Line S' variant offers an optional heat pump, a feature designed to enhance efficiency during colder months by maintaining optimal battery performance.
Standard Equipment and Features
Kia has ensured that all models within the EV6 range are generously equipped with an array of standard features that prioritise comfort, convenience, and safety. Across the range, buyers can expect automatic headlight control, heated door mirrors, LED lighting throughout, and a sophisticated two-screen dashboard layout that includes a 12.3-inch curved driver display and a matching 12.3-inch touchscreen for navigation.
Further adding to the vehicle's appeal, all models come equipped with Kia's Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which allows the car to function as a mobile power source for external devices, making it a versatile choice for those who may need to power tools or gadgets on the go. The EV6 also supports wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, ensuring seamless connectivity for both iPhone and Android users.
Safety remains a cornerstone of Kia's design philosophy, and the new EV6 is no exception. Every model is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Lane Keep Assist, Lane Follow Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with stop/go functionality. Additionally, the ‘GT-Line' and ‘GT-Line S' variants include advanced systems such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Highway Driving Assist, further enhancing the vehicle's safety credentials.
Trim-Specific Features and Pricing
The ‘Air' variant, serving as the entry point to the EV6 range, is equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured flush door handles, and LED headlights. Inside, the ‘Air' trim features black cloth and artificial leather seat upholstery, a 2-spoke steering wheel, and a 6-speaker audio system. Priced from £45,575, the ‘Air' model offers a compelling package for those looking to step into the world of electric vehicles without compromising on quality.
The mid-range ‘GT-Line,' priced from £48,575 for the RWD model and £52,075 for the AWD variant, brings a sportier aesthetic with its ‘GT-Line' exterior and interior styling, privacy glass, and dual LED headlights with adaptive driving beams. Inside, it features black artificial leather seats with white bolsters, front relaxation seats, and a wireless mobile phone charger, adding a layer of luxury and convenience to the driving experience.
At the top of the range, the ‘GT-Line S,' starting at £53,675 for the RWD and £57,175 for the AWD, offers a premium experience with 20-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a smart power tailgate. The interior is further enhanced with black artificial suede seats, a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Sound system, and a customisable Head-Up Display (HUD). For those seeking the ultimate in electric driving, the ‘GT-Line S' offers an impressive array of features and options, including the aforementioned heat pump.
A Glimpse into the Future ?
Kia believes that the new EV6 is more than just a vehicle; they feel that it is a statement of intent as it looks to lead the charge in electric mobility. The EV6 was first introduced in 2021 and quickly garnered critical acclaim, including being named the 2022 Car of the Year by many organisations. The latest version builds on this legacy, with Kia aiming to launch 15 electric vehicles by 2027 as part of its ‘Plan S' strategy, nine of which are expected to arrive in the UK.
With the order books now open and deliveries set to commence in the third quarter of 2024, the new Kia EV6 is poised to continue its success story, offering UK drivers a compelling mix of cutting-edge technology, performance, and style in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. Will the UK want to pay thousands more that the original launch price? We will soon see just how highly the Kia EV brand is regarded.
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