Kia continues to bolster its role in the electric vehicle space with the reveal of the new EV6 crossover. Although the EV6 is not the first battery-electric vehicle from the Korean automaker, it is the first model to strictly rely on electricity for power. Other Kia electrics, such as the Soul EV and Niro EV, are also available with gasoline- or gasoline-electric hybrid powertrains.
Although Kia’s mum on the EV6 specifics, the brand likely cribs the architecture and powertrain of its new EV from that of Hyundai’s Ioniq 5. As such, expect the EV6 to offer single- and dual-motor options, with the former setup pushing power to the front wheels, and the latter to all four. Likewise, the most powerful EV6 ought to pack around 300 horses and utilize the same 73-kWh battery pack as the Ioniq 5. (Lesser EV6’s will likely employ the Ioniq 5’s smaller capacity 58-kWh pack. )
Despite the fact the EV6 and Ioniq 5 are expected to rely on the same mechanical hardware, the two clearly do not share many—if any—exterior or interior pieces. Whereas the Hyundai employs a retro-futuristic and simple design, the Kia’s styling takes on a more dramatic and sporting shape. Low-mounted headlights, muscular fenders, a floating roofline, and taillights that span the width of the body bring an athletic, if somewhat generic, look to the EV6.
The sporting theme makes its way into the cabin, as well, with the EV6 incorporating a driver-oriented infotainment display and center console. A handsome mix of light and dark materials adds an upscale feel to the space.
Look for Kia to reveal more information about the EV6 later this month when it formally unveils the new model, which we expect to hit our shores later this year or early next year as a 2022 model.