When Kia launched the EV6 electric crossover, it promised a high-powered GT version. Now that car is here, with 576 hp from its twin electric motors and the ability to thrash a Lamborghini Huracan Evo in a drag race.
The EV6 GT is the most powerful car Kia has ever built, thanks to a 214-hp front motor and a 362-hp unit in the rear. That's getting close to double the horsepower of the next-quickest EV6, the GT-Line. With Goodyear Eagle F1 performance tires mounted to 21-inch alloys, the EV6 can hit 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds.
To stop the EV6, Kia has added larger brake rotors front and rear, along with more capable fixed callipers doing the clamping. Kia has upgraded the suspension, too, adding electronically controlled shocks and special front suspension bushings.
A GT Drive mode added to the usual Eco, Normal, and Sport settings stiffens the suspension, quickens throttle response, and tweaks the electronic limited-slip differential. If you're really looking to have fun, Drift Mode relies primarily on rear motor power to let the EV6 slide like a new driver in the snow. Or like a good drift driver, if you get the hang of it.
The battery pack is the same 77.4-kWh nickel-cobalt-manganese pack as lower versions of the EV6. With all the extra power and the same battery, the range is expected to suffer. The estimate is 334 km, down significantly from the estimated 441 km of the Long Range AWD EV6 and 499 km of the Long Range rear-drive.
At least it still offers 400V and 800V fast-charging, giving it the ability to charge from zero to 80 per cent in under 20 minutes to get you back on the move. If you need power while you're waiting, the EV6 GT can supply 1,900 watts of 110-volt household power to run anything you need.
Cosmetic changes are subtle. There are those special 21-inch alloys and a small rear spoiler, but the front fascia isn't that much different from the standard car. Inside it has fake suede performance seats with deep bolsters and GT embroidery as well as new stripes and neon accents.
The 2023 Kia EV6 GT is expected to go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year. Details on pricing and availability are still to come.
You may also like
