Kia’s got the electric scene buzzing with the 2024 EV6. This sleek crossover isn’t just about saving the planet (although it does that brilliantly), it’s about making the switch to electric exciting. Let’s delve into the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between to see if the EV6 sparks your electric dreams.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Thrilling Performance: Buckle up! The EV6 boasts instant torque and impressive acceleration, especially in the GT trim. It’s not just saving the environment, it’s putting a smile on your face.
• Long-Range Champion: Range anxiety? Not here! The base model offers a solid 450km (WLTP), with higher trims pushing past 500km. Road trips with minimal charging detours become a reality.
• Fast Charging Hero: Need a quick top-up? The EV6 can go from near empty to 80% in a hair-raising 18 minutes on a DC fast charger. Perfect for those times you forget to plug in overnight.
• Feature-Packed Cabin: Stepping inside is like entering a tech haven. From the panoramic sunroof to the crisp digital displays, the EV6 feels luxurious and futuristic. Safety features are top-notch too, with driver-assist systems keeping you protected.
• Spacious and Practical: Don’t be fooled by the sporty looks, the EV6 offers a surprising amount of space for passengers and cargo. Perfect for weekend adventures or hauling groceries for the whole family.

Cons

• Price Point: Let’s be honest, the EV6 isn’t the cheapest electric car on the block. The starting price of $72,590 might raise eyebrows, especially considering some standard features are missing in the base model.
• Limited Cargo Access: While spacious, the sloping rear roofline eats into cargo space compared to some boxier SUVs. If you’re a gear enthusiast, you might need to get creative with packing.
• A Few Quirks: Some reviewers have mentioned a slightly compromised rearward visibility and the lack of automatic boot opening on the base model as minor annoyances.

How Much Does It Cost?

The 2024 EV6 comes in four flavours: Air RWD, GT-Line RWD, GT-Line AWD, and the fire-breathing GT. Prices start at $72,590 for the Air and climb to a cool $99,590 for the top-of-the-line GT. Keep in mind that government incentives and on-road costs can affect the final price tag.

Features and Benefits: More Than Just Electric

The EV6 goes beyond just being an electric car. Here are some features that make it stand out:

• Ultra-wide curved display: Experience a panoramic view of all the essential driving information and entertainment options.
• Heads-up display: Keep your eyes on the road with vital information projected onto the windshield.
• Augmented reality navigation: Get turn-by-turn navigation projected onto the real world through the windshield, making directions a breeze.
• Driver-assistance features: A suite of features like lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control keep you safe and secure on the road.
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality: Turn the EV6 into a giant power bank! This feature allows you to power appliances, campsites, or even help a fellow EV driver in need.

Safety First: Peace of Mind on the Road

Kia is known for its focus on safety, and the EV6 is no exception. It boasts a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, with a suite of driver-assistance features like:

• Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot collision warning
• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
• Rear cross-traffic alert

These features combined with a strong body structure give you peace of mind on every journey.

A Game-Changer in the Australian Electric Vehicle Landscape

Running Costs

Electricity is the name of the game here. With charging stations becoming more accessible, the EV6’s running costs are significantly lower than traditional fossil-fuel vehicles. Say goodbye to petrol stations and hello to greener savings.

Competition: Battling it Out in the EV Arena

The Australian EV market is getting hotter than a summer scorcher. Here’s how the EV6 stacks up against some of its key competitors:

• Hyundai IONIQ 5: This close cousin shares the same platform and offers similar performance and features, but with a slightly different design aesthetic. The starting price for the IONIQ 5 is a touch lower, making it a budget-conscious option.
• Tesla Model Y: The undisputed king of the electric SUV segment. It boasts a longer range and a more established charging network, but comes with a significantly higher price tag.
• Ford Mustang Mach-E: This pony with a battery offers a thrilling driving experience and a spacious interior. However, its charging speed can’t quite match the EV6, and cargo space is a bit smaller.

Conclusion

Should You Plug into the EV6?

The 2024 Kia EV6 is a compelling option for anyone looking to make the switch to an electric car. It offers a thrilling driving experience, impressive range, and a comfortable, tech-laden interior. While the starting price might be a hurdle for some, government incentives and lower running costs can help offset the initial investment.

If you’re looking for a practical family car with the most cargo space, the EV6 might not be your top choice. However, for those seeking a stylish, feature-packed electric SUV with exceptional performance and range, the EV6 is definitely worth a test drive.

Rating: 8.5/10

The EV6 is a strong contender in the growing electric SUV market. It delivers on its promises of excitement, efficiency, and practicality, with only a few minor drawbacks. If you’re looking for a future-proof, feature-rich electric car that’s as fun to drive as it is good for the environment, the EV6 is a compelling choice.