Kia heralds ‘new era’
Kia NZ has released key specification details of the new, all-electric EV6 range with four variants.
“It is arguably the most eagerly anticipated launch of all-time for Kia in New Zealand,” enthuses managing director Todd McDonald. “To say we are excited would be an understatement.
“The five-door heralds the dawning of a new era for carbon emissions-free transportation. The EV6 delivers striking aesthetics, the latest EV technology together with a locally tuned handling package.
“Furthermore, it offers fast-charging capability, generous interior space, impressive performance and the ability to drive a significant distance on a single charge.”
The EV6 portfolio will consist of four variants. The entry model is the EV6 Air with rear-wheel-drive (RWD), standard range and a 58kWh battery.
Then there’s the EV6 Air RWD Long Range, the Earth AWD and GT-Line AWD, all of which feature a 77.4kWh battery.
The EV6 Air RWD Long Range can travel 528km on a single charge, while AWD models are capable of covering around 506km between charges.
Swooping lines and the dramatic design language of the EV6 add to the aesthetics of the new model, hinting at the vehicle’s performance capability.
The exterior appearance is elevated with the inclusion of an LED lighting package – front headlights, daytime running lights and rear combination lamps. The look is completed by a black glossy beltline.
With a wheelbase longer than the large seven-seat Sorento SUV and similar to the Stinger, the EV6 promises unheralded interior space with legroom of 1,078mm at the front and 990mm.
The EV6’s cargo space offers up to 490 litres with seats up or a 1,300l with the 60-40 split rear seats down. This is more than a 20 per cent increase compared with the Stinger and 5.1 per cent more than the QL Sportage.
Dual-zone climate control helps manage different temperature requirements within the cabin environment, and a mix of five USB media and charge ports ensures multiple devices can be connected and charging at the same time.
The car’s sporty is emphasised with the inclusion of steering-wheel paddles that provide adjustable levels of regenerative braking in all models and, for when a more relaxing driving experience is desired, smart cruise control with the stop-and-go function is particularly helpful managing busy motorway traffic.
Vehicle safety systems to help protect occupants in the event of a crash, such as lane-keep and lane-follow assist and forward-collision avoidance assist come as standard, and airbags are fitted in dual front, side and curtain positions plus a front centre-side airbag.
Additional details for the new EV6 range, such as pricing, performance and charging information, will be released when available. The first examples of the new model will arrive in New Zealand towards the start of 2022’s second quarter.
