This car was named Car of the Year 2022, and just a single drive is enough to understand why. It’s the perfect vehicle for those who don’t want to compromise—neither on range nor on charging speed. I’m talking about the Kia EV6 GT-Line, which recently received a facelift, especially at the front, to align with Kia’s new family design language, taking inspiration from the EV9 (our test drive here).
The result? An even more modern and futuristic design that now blends more seamlessly with the rear, which still retains its signature arched shape—though slightly revised as well.
Kia EV6 GT-Line: our tops&flops
The new Kia EV6 gets a design refresh, with a look that I personally find more cohesive than the original version. The front end now features C-shaped headlights and a “constellation” pattern reminiscent of the EV9, creating a more modern, avant-garde look that pairs better with the still-arched, dramatic rear end. The powertrains remain unchanged, including the one in this test drive: a single rear electric motor with 229 hp, now combined with a new 84 kWh battery. In this Long Range Single Motor version, range reaches up to 570 km — around 350 km on the highway, 530 km in mixed driving, and 600 km in the city.
It’s still a car I really like, even though it’s quite large and has a limited turning radius. Thanks to its 800V architecture, it can charge from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes — still among the fastest in its class. There’s also a new infotainment system that’s much smoother and more refined, paired with excellent interior space, only slightly compromised by a flat yet somewhat high floor.
What we like:
- The new design and colors are stunning;
- Quite efficient for a crossover;
- Ultra-fast charging is a true killer feature
What we don’t like:
- The turning radius is still limited (and limiting);
- Rear visibility is laughable;
- The floor is a bit too high;
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A more coherent design
Aesthetically, the EV6 is a coupe-style crossover with aerodynamic lines, recognized with several international design awards. It’s a large car—4.69 meters long—and you can definitely feel its size on the road. The redesigned front end is perhaps the most successful update: I wasn’t convinced by the original, but now it has a much bolder presence and feels more cohesive with the rest of the car.
The new wheels are also very attractive, featuring an intricate design—in this case 20″ with a new grey finish—that add an extra touch of sportiness in this GT-Line trim. Inspired by the more powerful GT version, this trim also includes body-colored side skirts and wheel arches for a more aggressive look.
Inside, there are no radical changes, but a few targeted updates. The steering wheel is now a three-spoke design with a stylish black-and-white color combo, similar to the one on the EV3. The gear selector remains the practical rotary dial on the center console. It’s a pity they didn’t move it to the steering column; the dial can occasionally get stuck, but it works well overall.
A fingerprint authentication system has been added, which is useful for managing multiple user profiles via the updated infotainment system. The new system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over-the-air (OTA) updates.
The soft-touch climate control bar has been retained: it’s not a set of physical buttons, but it’s also not buried in menus—an in-between solution that works well once you get used to it.
Up top 570 km range
The biggest news is the new 84 kWh battery, which brings WLTP range up to around 560 km (compared to the previous 530 km). It’s not a massive leap—about 6.6 kWh more than the earlier 77.4 kWh pack—but it’s definitely welcome.
On the highway, with “Nordic” speed limits (this test was done between Copenhagen and Sweden’s West Coast, with limits of 110–120 km/h), you can cover 360–400 km, while at a steady 130 km/h you’re looking at around 340 km. Not bad, especially considering the level of driving comfort.
The real highlight, however, remains the 800-Volt system, which allows DC fast charging up to 260 kW. The standard 10–80% top-up takes under 20 minutes—often just 18. Over the course of the test, I drove more than 2,500 km, about 1,200 of them on highways, with no more than 3 quick and effective charging stops.
I recommend pairing it with Ionity Passport, which lowers the kWh cost—even in Italy, where electricity prices remain high. AC charging is supported up to 11 kW.
Driving is still a pleasure
The EV6 has rear-wheel drive with 229 hp and does 0–100 km/h in 7.7 seconds—not supercar territory, but more than lively for the segment. In Sport mode, the car responds sharply and delivers a drive that’s both fun and efficient.
Despite weighing nearly 2,000 kg, Kia has done a great job with the chassis—still based on the E-GMP platform—improving its responsiveness. Steering is precise, and both body roll and pitch are well controlled, even during braking. Credit also goes to the four disc brakes, though the calipers aren’t particularly large.
On cobblestones and urban speed bumps, ride comfort remains high. This is also thanks to the new windows that further reduce wind noise, making highway driving even quieter.
The ADAS systems have also been updated, including semi-automatic lane changes triggered with the indicator and cruise control engaged. The only drawback remains the same: these systems can be a bit too loud and intrusive. But overall, they work very well.
The only real drawback in the city is the turning radius, which hasn’t improved. The car’s size and the 20″ wheels make tight maneuvers more difficult. That said, it still handles everyday urban use quite well.
