The Kia EV6 2022 marked a watershed moment for Kia — a bold, all-electric crossover that combined cutting-edge technology, striking design, and remarkable performance. Built on the same E-GMP platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, it quickly became one of the most desirable EVs in the UK, thanks to its long range, ultra-fast charging, and engaging dynamics.
Key Points
- 77.4 kWh battery with up to 328 miles WLTP range
- Single-motor RWD (226 hp) or dual-motor AWD (321 hp)
- 0–62 mph in 5.2 seconds (AWD)
- 800V charging architecture – 10–80% in 18 minutes
- Fully ULEZ exempt, zero road tax
- UK prices from £44,000
Kia’s Electric Revolution
The EV6 was more than just another electric SUV — it redefined Kia’s image in the UK market. Sleek, sporty, and futuristic, it showed how far the brand had evolved from its budget roots.
According to Kia UK, the EV6 “represents the start of our new era — designed to inspire movement and lead the future of electric mobility.”
It competes directly with the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4 GTX, and Polestar 2, but offers a unique mix of performance and everyday usability at a more accessible price point.
Exterior and Dimensions
The EV6’s design language, called Opposites United, blends coupe-like lines with SUV practicality. The low nose, raked roofline, and full-width LED rear light bar create a futuristic yet functional silhouette.
| Dimension | EV6 | Tesla Model Y | VW ID.4 GTX |
| Length | 4,680 mm | 4,751 mm | 4,582 mm |
| Width | 1,880 mm | 1,921 mm | 1,852 mm |
| Boot | 490 L (+40 L frunk) | 854 L | 543 L |
Flush door handles and a short bonnet improve aerodynamics to a 0.28 Cd, enhancing efficiency and highway refinement.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside, and the EV6 feels genuinely premium. Two curved 12.3-inch panoramic screens dominate the dashboard, running Kia’s intuitive infotainment system.
Recycled PET plastics, vegan leather, and soft-touch surfaces contribute to a modern, sustainable environment.
Standard equipment includes:
- Heated front and rear seats
- Heated steering wheel
- 14-speaker Meridian audio system
- Dual-zone climate control
- Wireless phone charging
- Augmented-reality head-up display (GT-Line S)
Cabin space is generous, with rear legroom exceeding many petrol SUVs. The flat floor and clever packaging make it an ideal family EV.
For further comparison, see how it stacks against rivals like the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX 2022 or explore the Best Plug-in Hybrid Cars UK 2025 for electrified alternatives.
Powertrain and Performance
The EV6 uses Kia’s state-of-the-art 800V electrical system, allowing lightning-fast charging and high efficiency.
| Version | Power | Torque | Drive | 0–62 mph | Range (WLTP) |
| RWD | 226 hp | 350 Nm | Rear | 7.3 s | 328 miles |
| AWD | 321 hp | 605 Nm | All | 5.2 s | 314 miles |
| GT (2023) | 577 hp | 740 Nm | All | 3.5 s | 263 miles |
The AWD model feels rapid yet refined, offering instant traction even on wet British roads. The RWD variant prioritises efficiency and smooth cruising.
From my point of view, the AWD EV6 strikes the perfect balance for UK drivers — sporty, stable, and effortless on motorways or country lanes alike.
Driving Experience
The EV6 handles more like a sporty hatchback than an SUV. The low centre of gravity and multi-link rear suspension keep it composed through corners, while steering feels precise and well-weighted.
Drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) adjust throttle and steering response, while i-Pedal mode enables full one-pedal driving for city commutes.
Ride comfort is firm but controlled, especially on 19-inch wheels. On motorways, the EV6 is whisper-quiet, with cabin insulation rivaling premium German competitors.
For daily driving efficiency and legal awareness, UK motorists can refer to UK Speed Camera Regulations 2025 to optimise EV driving habits.
Charging and Efficiency
The 800V architecture supports ultra-fast charging rarely seen at this price point:
- 10–80% in 18 minutes via 350 kW DC charger
- 7.4 kW home wallbox: full charge in ~10 hours
- 11 kW AC three-phase: 7 hours
Energy efficiency averages 3.8 miles/kWh, giving a realistic range of 290–310 miles in mixed UK conditions.
The EV6 also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing it to power household devices or camping equipment — a unique feature in this class.
Comfort and Practicality
The 490-litre boot expands to 1,300 litres with the rear seats folded, plus an additional 40-litre front trunk. Rear passengers enjoy excellent legroom, and the sloping roofline doesn’t compromise headspace.
Climate performance is optimised with a heat pump system, improving winter efficiency — a major advantage in the UK climate.
UK Trims and Pricing
| Trim | Highlights | Price (OTR) |
| Air | 19” alloys, 12.3” screens, LED lights | £44,000 |
| GT-Line | Sport styling, privacy glass, heated seats | £47,500 |
| GT-Line S | AR head-up display, Meridian audio, AWD | £52,500 |
| GT | 577 hp, adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes | £62,500 |
Every model comes with lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise, and blind-spot monitoring as standard.
Safety and Reliability
The Kia EV6 achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, excelling in adult occupant and safety assist categories.
Key systems include:
- Forward Collision Avoidance with pedestrian/cyclist detection
- Lane Follow Assist and adaptive cruise control
- Blind Spot View Monitor (cameras in mirrors)
- Parking Collision Avoidance Assist
- 360° surround-view camera
Kia’s 7-year / 100,000-mile warranty remains the best in the industry, covering the battery and all major components.
FAQs
Is the Kia EV6 available in the UK?
Yes, in multiple trims including the high-performance GT.
How long does it take to charge?
Only 18 minutes (10–80%) using a 350 kW charger.
What’s the real-world range?
Around 300 miles depending on weather and driving style.
Is it ULEZ compliant?
Yes, it’s fully electric and zero-emission.
Does it have AWD?
Yes, AWD is standard on GT-Line S and GT versions.
Conclusion
The Kia EV6 2022 proved that Kia can build a world-class EV — stylish, fast, and genuinely enjoyable to drive. It blends design flair with cutting-edge technology, offering performance that rivals premium brands at a lower cost.
From my point of view, it’s one of the finest electric cars on UK roads today. Between its range, charging speed, and comfort, the EV6 delivers exactly what British drivers need for the next generation of mobility — electric, exciting, and future-ready.
