What the Kia Ev6 is like: learn about our experience behind the wheel and the technology of the striking sports-style electric SUV

Specifically, the Let’s EV6 It is a crossover SUV; although at first glance it looks like a large hatchback. The truth is that its characteristics are more similar to those of an SUV, since it is almost 4.7 meters long, has a large interior space and a ground clearance of 16 cm. Likewise, it is based on the electric global modular platform (E-GMP), since it is a 100% electric SUV.

He EV6 It is a vehicle that has a futuristic appearance and has an aerodynamic body that allows it to develop high speeds in just a few seconds. In fact, the GT version of the EV6 achieved the title of the fastest vehicle in Kia history by accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. Logically, behind this achievement there is a large-scale technological development that makes these benefits possible.

For its part, the GT-Line version that we drove is not far behind, since thanks to its two electric motors it achieves 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. One of 74 kW mounted on the front axle and another of 165 kW on the rear axle, which together reach 239 kW or 321 hp and 605 nm.

Being electric and delivering torque instantly, the EV6 achieves very powerful acceleration that really made us smile. The car pushes with great force, causing the upper body of our body to stick to the cushioned seats. It really is an almost sporting experience.

It is also technological because by having a motor on each axle, the traction reaches all four wheels like an All Wheel Drive (AWD), allowing the wheels to have better grip at all times.

As for the energy storage system, it uses 77.4 kWh batteries with fourth generation technology. This allows it to achieve a range of up to 506 kilometers, according to the WLTP cycle. Regarding the electric charge, it must be said that it could be charged from 10 to 80% in 18 minutes in a 350 kW public charge. If you want to charge it at your home or office, the time will be longer. Plugging it into the wall connector could take almost 33 hours, while with a home charger or Wallbox up to 10 hours and 30 minutes.

On the outside, what caught our attention the most were the hidden handles with automatic opening, which reduces the aerodynamic coefficient. In addition, the dynamic LED lights are also striking, which are perceived when we activate the turn signals. Among other technological details, it has electric exterior mirrors and an electric sunroof.

Once we open the driver’s door, we breathe more technology, since the electric seats have a welcome function that deploys them backwards, making it easier for the driver to have no problems when entering. Particularly, we find this very good in situations where one is in a hurry and enters the vehicle quickly, so that is where the pilot ends up hitting his knees with the rudder. However, this feature of the EV6 avoids that situation.

Our view is directed towards the panoramic screen that integrates the digital cluster and infotainment screen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, both 12.3″. Likewise, we notice that the center console is floating type and the upper level does not connect with the dashboard, generating greater spaciousness.

Regarding the screens, it should be noted that they have great clarity. In addition, the touch screen uses a Standard-class Gen5W Navigation platform, which has a fast and intuitive interface. Really, this is appreciated because the system integrates multiple options that, if it were not easy and simple to understand, could complicate a driver with little technological affinity.

Virtually everything can be configured on the EV6 screen. You can monitor the electrical charge, the climate control, the driving modes, the ambient light and even the engine sound. So there are always shortcut buttons to help make the experience faster; Likewise, some physical buttons are maintained to control the audio volume.

It also maintains the 360° camera button on the center console, allowing us to quickly activate it. This is very useful when we are parking the vehicle or even when we are in traffic. The EV6 is almost 1.90 meters wide and this is noticeable in maneuvers, so a high definition camera will always be of great benefit.

Now, if it comes to care, the EV6 has a Drive Wise technology package, which refers to advanced driving assistance. There are several assistances, but the most important are forward collision warning, lane keep assist and blind spot monitor.

Finally, a price for the EV6 GT-Line for Peru has not yet been confirmed; However, a close reference is the Chilean market. In that country it is offered for a little more than US$60,000. Regarding the sale of this model, Kia noted that it hopes to bring this model starting in July next year.