The 2024 Kia EV6 GT is the apex of Kia's foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market. As the high-performance variant of the EV6 lineup, the GT combines the practicality and innovation of its more subdued siblings with exhilarating performance and cutting-edge technology.
Designed to challenge established competitors in the EV performance segment, such as the Tesla Model Y Performance and Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, the EV6 GT delivers a bold statement about Kia's electric ambitions.
In this review, we’ll explore the EV6 GT’s design, interior features, driving dynamics, technology, and value, ultimately assessing its place in the growing EV landscape.
Exterior Design: Bold and Futuristic
The EV6 GT's design builds on the already striking base EV6 but adds a performance-oriented flair. Its sharp, futuristic lines create an athletic stance, signaling its capabilities from the moment you lay eyes on it.
The front fascia features a more aggressive interpretation of Kia’s “tiger nose” grille, flanked by angular LED headlights with a distinctive light signature. Below, larger air intakes hint at its enhanced cooling requirements and performance potential.
From the side, the EV6 GT sports a coupe-like roofline, muscular haunches, and 21-inch alloy wheels exclusive to the GT trim. Neon-green brake calipers, a signature GT detail, add a vibrant contrast to its sleek silhouette.
At the rear, a prominent spoiler and a full-width LED light bar emphasize the car’s high-performance aspirations. The EV6 GT is undeniably striking, blending Kia’s design language with aggressive cues that set it apart from the competition.
Interior and Comfort: Modern and Driver-Centric
Inside, the EV6 GT seamlessly blends futuristic aesthetics with high-quality materials and thoughtful ergonomics. The cabin features a minimalist yet functional design, dominated by dual 12.3-inch screens that serve as the instrument cluster and infotainment system. These displays are seamlessly integrated into a curved panel that enhances the car's modern vibe.
Exclusive to the GT are sporty touches like suede-trimmed bucket seats with neon-green stitching, which provide excellent support during spirited driving. The flat-bottom steering wheel, adorned with a GT mode button, further reinforces its performance identity. Despite its sporty nature, the interior remains comfortable and spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.
The EV6 GT’s practicality isn’t compromised either, with a generous cargo area and a frunk (front trunk) for added storage. This makes it a versatile choice for those who want both performance and everyday usability.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Electrifying Speed
What sets the EV6 GT apart from its siblings is its staggering performance. Under the hood—figuratively speaking, since there’s no engine—is a dual-motor setup that delivers a combined 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to all four wheels via an all-wheel-drive system, resulting in jaw-dropping acceleration. The EV6 GT rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, putting it firmly in the league of high-performance EVs.
The driving experience is further enhanced by a GT-specific suspension setup, which includes electronically controlled dampers and a sport-tuned chassis. These adjustments provide sharp handling and improved cornering stability, making the EV6 GT feel agile and planted even during aggressive maneuvers. A limited-slip rear differential ensures optimal power distribution for maximum traction and control.
Kia has also included several driving modes, with the standout being GT mode. Activated via a button on the steering wheel, this mode unleashes the car’s full performance potential, sharpening throttle response, tightening steering feedback, and firming up the suspension.
While the EV6 GT excels on twisty roads and straight-line sprints, its ride remains surprisingly comfortable in Eco or Normal modes, showcasing its dual personality as both a performance machine and a daily driver.
Technology and Features: Cutting-Edge Connectivity
The 2024 EV6 GT is packed with advanced technology to complement its futuristic nature. The infotainment system, running Kia’s latest software, is intuitive and responsive, featuring crisp graphics and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital gauge cluster provides performance-oriented displays, including power output, torque distribution, and lap timers, catering to driving enthusiasts.
Another standout feature is the augmented reality head-up display, which projects critical information like navigation instructions and speed directly onto the windshield. This ensures drivers can stay focused on the road without missing important details. The Meridian premium sound system delivers excellent audio quality, adding to the cabin’s luxurious feel.
In terms of safety, the EV6 GT is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system is particularly impressive, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities that make long highway journeys more relaxed.
Range and Charging: Balancing Performance with Usability
The EV6 GT’s performance focus does come with some trade-offs in range. Its 77.4 kWh battery pack provides an EPA-estimated range of around 206 miles on a full charge. While this is lower than the base EV6 models, it’s comparable to other high-performance EVs in its class.
Charging is a strong suit for the EV6 GT, thanks to its 800-volt architecture. It supports ultra-fast DC fast charging, allowing the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes when connected to a 350 kW charger. This makes it one of the fastest-charging EVs on the market, minimizing downtime during long trips.
Competitors and Market Position
The EV6 GT competes in a segment that includes heavyweights like the Tesla Model Y Performance, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, and Porsche Taycan 4S. While the Tesla may offer a longer range and the Porsche boasts sharper handling, the EV6 GT strikes an excellent balance between performance, practicality, and value.
Its bold design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive acceleration make it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance EV without venturing into ultra-premium territory.
Pricing and Value
Starting at around $62,000, the EV6 GT undercuts many of its competitors while offering similar levels of performance and technology. Additionally, the EV6 GT benefits from Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which provides peace of mind for buyers venturing into the EV space.
Final Verdict
The 2024 Kia EV6 GT is a remarkable achievement that showcases Kia’s ability to deliver high-performance vehicles in the electric age. It combines blistering speed, advanced technology, and bold design into a package that remains practical for everyday use. While its range might not match the most efficient EVs, its ultra-fast charging capabilities and dual-purpose nature make it a standout option in the performance EV segment.
For enthusiasts seeking a thrilling electric vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or usability, the EV6 GT is a compelling choice that redefines what a Kia can be. With its blend of style, speed, and substance, the EV6 GT positions itself as a leader in the evolving world of high-performance electric mobility.
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Duane Pemberton is the owner of Finish Line Media, a social media marketing company and writes about things that help bring people together. Food, wine, cars and travel. He also founded Duane Paul's BBQ in 2023. A premium BBQ sauce you can find at: www.duanepaulbbq.com.