• Excellent performance and efficiency
• Rapid acceleration
• Two battery capacities

What power options are there?

There are two battery capacities available: 58- and 77.4kWh. Rear- and all-wheel drive versions are available, with Kia claiming the 77.4kWh rear-wheel drive model as the thriftiest, longest-range EV6. It’s capable of up to 316 miles on a single charge.

The rear-wheel-drive model develops 230hp for a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds, whereas the four-wheel drive version makes 325hp and that slashes the 0-62mph time to 5.2 seconds.

A top-spec GT is also available, and that has the long-range 77.4kWh battery and all-wheel drive as standard. The GT’s electric motors also get a power boost, making 580hp and accelerating to 62mph in just 3.5 seconds. If that sounds of interest, have a look at our separate Kia EV6 GT review.

What’s it like to drive?

• Sporty to drive
• Excellent handling and steering
• Firm ride won’t suit everyone

The EV6 is a highly accomplished all-rounder. The all-wheel-drive model we tested had more poise than you’d expect through twisty bits, with Kia revealing the EV6 is designed to be a little sportier than its comfier Hyundai Ioniq 5 sibling. We’ve driven both the 230hp rear-wheel drive and 325hp four-wheel drive models.

Although you could feel the Kia’s weight through corners the EV6 is flatter than you’d expect for a car of this stature with very little bodyroll, and that makes it remarkably enjoyable to push on regardless, especially when you consider the four-wheel drive model’s vivid acceleration.

Like other EVs, the Kia’s power is customisable, and we switched between Sport, Eco and Normal throughout our drive. While Normal mode was fine, Sport mode gave us the neck-snapping acceleration we’ve come to expect from EVs today – and Eco mode softened it.

The EV6 also lets you choose between regeneration levels, too. Add more and the car will coast less, but capture more energy. Reduce the level of regen and you’ll have a less ‘draggy’ coast, but your mileage may suffer. There’s also a one-pedal mode which offers the highest level of regen possible and reduces your need for the brake. Mode selection is via steering wheel paddles which are intuitive, so switching modes becomes a natural part of driving to get the best performance and range.

Although it’s comfortable and quiet and speed on smooth motorways, there’s not enough ride compliance to deal with rougher roads and potholes. Although it never becomes uncomfortable, we’d recommend looking elsewhere if you value a smooth ride above handling precision – both the Audi Q4 Sportback and Hyundai Ioniq 5 ride better.