Overview
The Kia EV6 shares its E-GMP platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 but takes a sportier approach. The sweeping roofline and muscular proportions look more coupe than crossover.
It offers the same brilliant 800V charging architecture as the Ioniq 5 but in a package that prioritises style and dynamics slightly more than outright practicality.
Model variants:
| Version | Battery | Range (WLTP) | Power | 0-62mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Range RWD | 58kWh | 232 miles | 168hp | 8.5s |
| Long Range RWD | 77.4kWh | 328 miles | 225hp | 7.3s |
| Long Range AWD | 77.4kWh | 314 miles | 321hp | 5.2s |
| GT | 77.4kWh | 263 miles | 577hp | 3.5s |
Key changes:
| Year | Changes |
|---|---|
| 2021 | UK launch |
| 2022 | GT version arrives |
| 2023 | Minor updates |
The GT transforms the EV6 into a genuine performance car — 577hp and 3.5 seconds to 62mph is supercar territory.
Performance & Drive
In town
The EV6 handles urban driving well despite its size. The turning circle is tight, visibility is acceptable (though the rear is compromised), and low-speed manoeuvring is straightforward.
On the motorway
Refined and comfortable cruising. The EV6 is slightly more composed than the Ioniq 5 at speed. The same brilliant charging capability makes long journeys practical.
On a twisty road
This is where the EV6 differentiates itself from the Ioniq 5. The lower, sportier stance translates to sharper handling. The steering has more weight and feedback, and body control is tighter.
The GT version is genuinely exciting — 577hp through all four wheels with drift mode for the brave. It's a serious performance car.
| Version | Character |
|---|---|
| RWD | Comfortable, efficient |
| AWD | Balanced, capable |
| GT | Thrilling, addictive |
Space & Practicality
Front seats
Excellent space with supportive sports-style seats. The interior design is similar to the Ioniq 5 but with sportier detailing.
Rear seats
Good but not as spacious as the Ioniq 5. The sloping roofline affects headroom for taller passengers. Legroom is still generous.
| Measurement | Space |
|---|---|
| Rear legroom | Good |
| Rear headroom | Compromised (6ft+ tight) |
| Rear width | 2-3 adults |
Boot space
At 490 litres rear plus 52 litres frunk (RWD), storage is practical. The sloping tailgate limits height for larger items.
| Configuration | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Rear boot | 490 litres |
| Frunk | 52 litres (RWD) / 20 litres (AWD) |
| Seats folded | ~1,300 litres |
Interior & Tech
Interior quality
Similar to the Ioniq 5 — good design, some quality compromises. Piano black trim scratches, some plastics feel below the price point.
Infotainment
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Curved dual 12.3" display | Standard |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard |
| Navigation with charging routing | Standard |
| Augmented reality HUD | Higher trims |
| V2L | Standard |
Touch controls
Same frustration as Ioniq 5 — the touch-sensitive climate panel requires eyes off the road.
Range & Charging
Real-world range
| Version | WLTP | Real-world (summer) | Real-world (winter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Range RWD | 232 miles | 180-200 miles | 140-165 miles |
| Long Range RWD | 328 miles | 260-290 miles | 200-240 miles |
| Long Range AWD | 314 miles | 240-270 miles | 190-230 miles |
| GT | 263 miles | 200-230 miles | 160-190 miles |
DC rapid charging
Same 800V advantage as Ioniq 5:
| Charger Speed | 10-80% Time |
|---|---|
| 50kW | ~60 minutes |
| 150kW | ~25 minutes |
| 350kW | ~18 minutes |
Reliability & Common Problems
Overall reliability
Same robust E-GMP platform as Ioniq 5. Generally reliable.
Common issues
| Issue | Severity |
|---|---|
| 12V battery drain | Medium |
| Infotainment glitches | Low |
| Interior rattles | Low |
Warranty
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | 7 years / 100,000 miles |
| Battery | 7 years / 100,000 miles |
Kia's 7-year warranty beats Hyundai's 5-year coverage — a significant advantage.
What to Look For When Buying
Before viewing
- Check warranty remaining — 7 years from registration
- Verify battery and drivetrain — Significant spec differences
- Service history — Kia dealer preferred
During inspection
Same checks as Ioniq 5 — piano black trim, 12V battery, charging function, tyre wear.
Test drive focus
- Rear seat headroom (check with passengers)
- GT version brake feel (if applicable)
- All driving modes
Used Price Guide
Current market prices (2026)
| Year | Version | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Long Range RWD | 30-50,000 | £30,000 - £38,000 |
| 2022 | Long Range AWD | 20-40,000 | £36,000 - £45,000 |
| 2022 | GT | 15-35,000 | £48,000 - £58,000 |
| 2023 | Long Range RWD | 10-30,000 | £38,000 - £46,000 |
Best value
A Long Range RWD offers the best balance of range, efficiency, and price. The 7-year warranty adds significant peace of mind.
The Verdict
The bottom line
The Kia EV6 (2021-2023) is the sportier alternative to the Ioniq 5. It shares the brilliant 800V charging but wraps it in a more dynamic package.
The trade-off is rear headroom — tall rear passengers will prefer the Ioniq 5. But for those prioritising style and driving engagement, the EV6 delivers.
The 7-year warranty is a significant advantage for used buyers.
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| Value for money | 7/10 |
| Real-world range | 8/10 |
| Charging convenience | 10/10 |
| Reliability | 8/10 |
| Practicality | 8/10 |
| Overall | 9/10 |
