Built on the new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the Kia EV6, alongside the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are the first examples of a bevy of new Hyundai and Kia BEVs that will launch over the next few years. Kia has conceived its first E-GMP-based model as a crossover. The 58 kWh battery pack of the rear-wheel drive base model, powers a 167 horsepower electric motor. All other models are powered by a 77.4 kWh battery pack. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive delivered via dual motor setup. Range is stated to be 373 kilometres for the 58 kWh battery pack, 499 kilometres for the long-range model and 441 kilometres for the dual-motor version of the long range. Kia notes that the EV6 can be charged using an 800 volt charger, a technology not generally available in Canada. Charging at 350 kW, the car can go from 10 percent to 80 percent charged in 18 minutes, and can add 100 kilometres of range in just five minutes.

Unlike the retro-inspired Ioniq 5, the EV6 is clean, uncluttered and arrestingly modern. The rear styling treatment, with taillights visually joined by a light-bar at the top of the trunk, is quite appealing. The EV6 is marginally shorter overall than the Ioniq 5. The cabin of the EV6 is dominated by a large, rectangular computer tablet, like the one used in the A, and CLA models from Mercedes-Benz. Interestingly, the tablet is formed in a shallow arc that makes the right side of the tablet more visible and physically accessible to the driver. The rectangle is split into two fields, a gauge package in front of the driver and an infotainment array at the far right side of the tablet. The rest of the dash has a strong horizontal emphasis. The liquid crystal display (LCD) “Integrated Controller” located below the screen, has two control modes which can be switched between climate and audio systems. Cabin photos reflect a very Zen, minimalist styling ethos. Like Hyundai, Kia uses some recycled materials like polyethylene bottles, some plant-based items and eco-processed leathers to fashion the interior.

Upgrading to the 77.4 kWh battery pack from the 58 kWh, with a corresponding range boost from 373 to 499 kilometers, cost $8000, but adds about $3000 worth of additional equipment, includeing a heatpump system, a power driver’s seat, deep-tint glass, a heated steering wheel, a memory system and a  wireless cellphone charger. All-wheel drive, via a dual motor setup, costs $2500 more than a 77.4 kWh model with rear-wheel drive. The GT-Line Group 1 adds a power passenger seat, a 360 degree camera system, blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, a remote starter and a skirt and spoiler package and is reasonable value if you like the look. The GT2 adds a sunroof, partial suede seating, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, a Meridian-branded audio system, a head-up display system, a luggage blind and a vehicle-to-load facility permitting external electrical equipment to be powered by the car, but is a bit overpriced. The range-topping GT trim features sports seats, 21 inch wheels, stronger brakes and 576 horsepower, but is priced beyond its value. Except for the GT trim, all EV6s qualify for a $5000 subsidy from the federal government and $7000 from Quebec.

Not rated, insufficient data. Few complaints have been received regarding this fearsomely complex car.