2025 Kia EV6 Review | Electric SUV With Style & Performance

The Australian EV market is booming, and the 2025 Kia EV6 sits right at the centre of it. More than just another electric SUV, the EV6 is Kia’s flagship effort to show drivers that electric cars can be stylish, practical, and genuinely exciting to drive.

With its bold coupe-inspired SUV shape, long driving range, rapid charging times, and high-tech interior, the EV6 is aimed at families, professionals, and enthusiasts alike. It competes with models like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Polestar 2. But the EV6 doesn’t just compete—it often outshines them with its mix of design, equipment, and value.

In this review, we’ll dive deep into what the 2025 Kia EV6 brings to Australia, covering its design, interior, tech, performance, charging, practicality, safety, and ownership experience.

Exterior Design: Futuristic Yet Functional

The EV6 continues Kia’s new “Opposites United” design philosophy. At first glance, it doesn’t look like a traditional SUV—it blends crossover practicality with a sleek, sporty silhouette.

• Front end: The EV6 ditches the old tiger-nose grille for a modern, slim fascia with sharp LED headlights and a clean aerodynamic nose.
• Profile: A sloping roofline gives it coupe-inspired styling without compromising too much on headroom. Flush door handles and strong character lines emphasise aerodynamics.
• Rear: A full-width LED light bar with a swooping design sets it apart, while the raised bumper and wide stance give it presence.

Wheel options range from 19 to 21 inches depending on the variant. Aerodynamic sculpting ensures reduced drag, aiding range and efficiency.

Interior: Modern, Spacious, and Tech-Focused

Step inside the EV6, and you’re greeted by a futuristic cabin that balances tech and comfort.

• Dashboard design: A sweeping curved display dominates the dash, combining the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen in one wide panel.
• Quality materials: Soft-touch surfaces, vegan leather, and recycled materials emphasise sustainability while feeling premium.
• Space: Despite its sloping roof, rear passengers enjoy generous legroom thanks to the flat EV platform. Boot space offers 520L, expandable to over 1,300L with seats folded. Plus, there’s a small front trunk (frunk).
• Comfort: Heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a premium sound system are available across trims.

The cabin is designed with both daily commuting and long trips in mind, making it one of the most practical EVs in its class.

Technology & Features

The EV6 isn’t short on tech, appealing to gadget lovers and families who value convenience.

• Infotainment: A 12.3-inch touchscreen with Kia’s latest UI, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Driver assistance: Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assist come standard on most trims.
• Augmented reality head-up display: Projects navigation, speed, and safety warnings directly onto the windscreen.
• Over-the-air updates: Keeps the car’s systems and navigation fresh without dealer visits.
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): The EV6 can power household devices, camping gear, or even charge another EV.

Kia clearly wants the EV6 to feel future-ready, not just future-proof.

Performance & Driving Dynamics

Performance is where the EV6 shines. Depending on the variant, you can go from relaxed cruising to sports car levels of acceleration.

• Standard RWD: A single-motor setup produces around 168–225kW, enough for brisk city and highway driving.
• Dual-motor AWD: Adds a front motor for better traction and 0–100km/h times around 5 seconds.
• GT variant: The performance flagship pushes over 430kW, capable of sprinting 0–100km/h in under 3.5 seconds. It’s a genuine rival to high-performance EVs.

Handling is surprisingly sharp for an SUV, thanks to its low centre of gravity and well-tuned suspension. Regenerative braking can be adjusted for one-pedal driving, while drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom) tailor the experience.

Range & Charging

Range and charging are two of the most important factors for EV buyers in Australia, and the EV6 delivers.

• Range: Depending on the variant, expect between 450km and 550km (WLTP). The long-range RWD version offers the best efficiency.
• Charging:
  • 350kW ultra-fast charging allows 10–80% charge in under 20 minutes.
  • 11kW AC home charging takes around 7–8 hours.
• Practicality: The EV6 supports both CCS2 fast charging and Type 2 AC charging, making it compatible with most Aussie charging networks.

For road trips across Australia, Kia’s partnership with charging providers ensures more accessible long-distance travel.

Safety Ratings & Features

The EV6 has scored a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest EVs on sale.

Key safety features include:

• Multiple airbags, including centre airbag for side-impact protection
• Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Lane departure warning and lane-follow assist
• Blind-spot collision avoidance
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise with stop-and-go functionality

Safety is clearly a priority, making the EV6 a strong choice for families.

Practicality & Everyday Use

Kia designed the EV6 not just as a flashy showcase but as a practical family car.

• Seating: Comfortable for five adults, with flexible rear seats.
• Storage: Plenty of cubbies, USB-C ports, wireless charging pad, and a sizeable boot.
• Ride comfort: Suspension absorbs Aussie road bumps well, and cabin insulation keeps it quiet.
• Towing: Capable of towing up to 1,600kg (depending on variant), which is competitive for EVs.

From city runs to weekend trips, the EV6 handles daily life with ease.

Ownership Experience: Warranty & Running Costs

Kia backs the EV6 with one of the best warranties in Australia.

• Warranty: 7-year/unlimited km warranty, including the EV battery.
• Servicing: Fixed-price service plans, with fewer moving parts making maintenance cheaper than petrol SUVs.
• Running costs: Charging at home is significantly cheaper than refuelling with petrol, especially when using off-peak tariffs or solar panels.
• Insurance: EV insurance premiums are gradually becoming more competitive, and Kia’s safety features help keep costs manageable.

Overall, the EV6 promises low running costs and strong long-term value.

Competitors: Where the EV6 Stands

The EV6 faces stiff competition in Australia, but it holds its own strongly.

• Tesla Model Y: Offers strong range and charging network, but lacks Kia’s warranty and often costs more.
• Hyundai Ioniq 5: Shares the same platform, but the EV6 is sportier and more premium in feel.
• Polestar 2: Stylish and European, but less spacious.
• Ford Mustang Mach-E: Sporty and fun, but not as efficient.

The EV6 strikes the best balance of price, features, and warranty.

Final Verdict: Why the 2025 Kia EV6 is a Game-Changer

The 2025 Kia EV6 is more than just a car—it’s a statement that electric vehicles can be practical, exciting, and desirable in equal measure.

It combines futuristic styling, a high-tech cabin, thrilling performance, and family-friendly practicality. Backed by Kia’s excellent warranty and competitive pricing, the EV6 is one of the best electric SUVs available in Australia right now.

For buyers ready to make the switch to electric—or those wanting an EV that doesn’t compromise on style or substance—the Kia EV6 should be at the very top of the shortlist.