The 2023 Kia EV6 GT: A Shockingly Sporty Electric Crossover
When it comes to looks, the 2023 Kia EV6 GT may not appear aggressive at first glance, but don’t let that fool you. This electric crossover is surprisingly sporty and packs a punch in terms of performance. Despite its mostly anonymous exterior, the EV6 GT will wow you with its powerful capabilities.
Under the hood, the EV6 GT boasts an impressive 576 horsepower, making it one of the quickest and most powerful EVs on the market today. Its supercar-rivaling sprint to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds even outperforms the Porsche Taycan GTS. Yet, despite its remarkable performance figures, the EV6 GT still maintains a comfortable and enjoyable ride, never feeling unruly.
The EV6 GT features shouty elements like acid green brakes and big 21-inch wheels, but its true beauty lies in its performance. It is equipped with a neon green GT button exclusive to this trim, which unlocks the full potential of its 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque. Without pressing this button, the power is limited to 287 horsepower and 430 lb-ft in Eco and Normal modes, respectively.
Thanks to its two electric motors, instantaneous torque, all-wheel grip, and high-quality Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, the EV6 GT delivers an exhilarating driving experience. It even offers a drift mode that reduces power to the front axle, allowing for easy rear tire sliding.
One unique feature of the EV6 GT is its adjustable acceleration sounds. Unlike other EVs that have a single spaceship-like noise, Kia offers three different sound options: Stylish, Dynamic, and Cyber. Each option provides a distinct auditory experience, ranging from higher-pitched notes to a rumble akin to a gas engine, creating a futuristic sensation for the driver.
While the EV6 GT excels in performance, it doesn’t sacrifice comfort and practicality. The drive mode dial allows for a more controlled ride experience in Eco or Normal mode, reducing power and softening the suspension. The only downside comes from the big 21-inch wheels, which can make the ride feel harsh on rough roads. Overall, the EV6 GT proves to be a great daily driver.
Super-fast charging is another highlight of the EV6 GT. With 240 kilowatts of charging power on a DC fast charger, it can go from 10 to 80 percent battery in just 18 minutes. Electrify America even offers the first 1,000 kilowatt-hours of charging for free. Comparatively, the Tesla Model Y Performance takes 30 minutes at 250 kilowatts to reach 80 percent, while the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT requires 45 minutes at 150 kilowatts. Although the EV6 GT has a smaller battery pack, it compensates with its impressive charging capabilities.
However, one downside of the EV6 GT is its limited range. With a 77.4-kilowatt-hour battery, it falls short compared to competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT and the Tesla Model Y Performance, which offer up to 270 and 303 miles of range, respectively. The EV6 GT is only capable of covering approximately 206 miles on a single charge. In range tests conducted by InsideEVs, the non-GT dual-motor EV6 achieved a more impressive range of 245 miles.
In terms of usability, the EV6 GT suffers from a poorly placed charging port. Located on the right rear of the vehicle, just underneath the taillight, it can be challenging to access certain charging stations. Backing into parking spots is necessary for rear-positioned chargers, and charging ports on the side of the vehicle would have provided easier access to side-positioned chargers. While there is no universal standard for charging port configurations, having the port on the side seems to be a more convenient and practical choice.
In conclusion, the 2023 Kia EV6 GT surprises with its sporty performance and power. With its 576 horsepower and quick acceleration, it easily outperforms competitors in its class. Although its range is limited and the charging port location is inconvenient, the EV6 GT offers a comfortable and practical ride without compromising on speed and handling. If you’re looking for a thrilling electric crossover, the EV6 GT is sure to impress.