The long-term Kia EV6 GT-Line managed to be cheaper to operate than any gas-powered long-term test car. The vehicle’s unique design turned heads without compromising utility. Kia’s charging technology is top-notch, but the fast-charging network can be troublesome and finicky.
It’s time to bid farewell to the long-term Kia EV6 GT-Line that has been a part of our fleet. The vehicle has surpassed the 10,000-mile mark and has proven to be reliable and enjoyable over the course of a year.
While we have tested almost every new electric vehicle, the nature of typical week-long media loans doesn’t reveal the true ownership experience. Charging is a pivotal part of the EV experience, which is why we chose to commit to a yearlong test of the EV6. The Hyundai/Kia/Genesis E-GMP platform cars excel in charging, making them a favorable choice.
Charging at home proved to be convenient for trips around the Detroit area, allowing our EV6 to meet its 274-mile range without any issues. For those requiring public fast-charging, the EV6 is an excellent choice, able to go from 20-80% in just about 18 minutes. However, issues arise in adverse weather conditions when using fast chargers. Fortunately, Kia has made improvements to the EV6, adding a battery preconditioning system to newer models and offering a software update for older versions.
Our long-term EV6 experienced minimal issues with fit and finish, and the driving experience was both engaging and enjoyable. The AWD dual-motor GT-Line model offers stellar acceleration and handles exceptionally well. While the top-of-the-line GT model offers exhilarating acceleration, the AWD GT-Line strikes a better balance with its range and features.
Our tracking showed an average of 2.9 miles per kilowatt-hour efficiency and a total energy consumption of 3,400 kWh at a cost of about $1,200 for the year. While the EV6 was cheaper to operate than gas-powered long-term cars, we advise caution when relying on public charging infrastructure to avoid increased costs.
In conclusion, our time with the Kia EV6 GT-Line has been rewarding, and we believe it to be one of the best EVs on the market. If there are any questions about the car, feel free to ask in the comments. And for more stories about our long-term test, visit our website.
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