Kia EV6 BEV makes its Kiwi debut

Highly anticipated pure-electric EV6 hits local roads

The car that Kia New Zealand calls the brand’s “most eagerly anticipated launch of all time” has hit local roads. The Kia EV6 Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) was launched to Kiwi media this week.

The EV6 is based on the same platform and BEV powertrain technology as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, although the two cars couldn’t be more different design-wise.

The initial model range consists of four variants, opening with the EV6 Air: standard range 58kWh ($73,990) or 77kWh long range ($78,990) batteries with rear-drive. Both are eligible for the government’s $8625 Clean Car Discount for BEVs.

The $94,990 Earth and $106,990 GT-Line models both come with the larger battery and AWD.

Also due in 2023 is a flagship GT model, which can rocket to 100km/ h in 3.5 seconds.

The wheelbase of the fastbackstyle EV6 is longer than Kia’s Sorento SUV, with nearly a metre of legroom for the rear occupants.

Integrated twin 12.3-inch clusters give 24.6 inches of high definition LCD display across the dashboard. The Earth AWD model and above feature heated and powered Premium Relaxation seats and an augmented reality head-up display. The GT-Line AWD is further differentiated by 20-inch alloy wheels, premium audio, ventilated front seats and extra driverassistance systems.

Also available are Remote Smart Park Assist and (optional, depending on model) Vehicle to Load (V2L) and Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) connectors, which can make the EV6 a power source on wheels capable of supporting electrical appliances. For full information, video and first-drive impressions, scan the QR code above.