The Kia EV6 GT (not to be confused with the EV6 GT-Line) has just arrived to complete the model lineup in the European market. The GT variant of the dedicated Kia EV targets performance enthusiasts and proves EVs can be just as fun and capable, perhaps even more so, compared to ICE models. Here are six things that set it apart from the regular variant:
1. Exclusive exterior styling
Neon brake calipers help instantly identify the Kia EV6 GT. Image Source:
The Kia EV6 GT looks sportier than the normal EV6. However, it’s not strikingly more aggressive or dynamic, especially if you see it alongside the latter’s GT-Line S grade (available in the UK). The GT variant sports unique bumpers, exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance tires, special neon brake calipers, and a distinctive rear diffuser. Performance is not as hard to achieve in EVs as in combustion-engined vehicles, especially in the case of the bespoke Hyundai E-GMP platform. Perhaps that’s the communication Kia intends by keeping the styling changes subtle.
2. Special interior styling of the Kia EV6 GT
The interior of the Kia EV6 GT has several unique touches to be more driver-friendly and maintain the sportier theme set by the exterior. Suede-trimmed bucket seats instill confidence during spirited driving. Metal inserts carrying GT inscription, green piping, and a striped motif on the upper fascia and front center armrest are the other visual highlights on the inside.
The Kia EV6 GT sports suede-trimmed bucket seats with green piping. Image Source: Kia
3. GT-specific components
The EV6 GT is the only EV6 in which Kia has applied electronically controlled suspension, electronic Limited-Slip Differential (e-LSD), and monoblock brakes (front).
4. GT drive mode
In addition to the familiar Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes, Kia offers a dedicated GT drive mode in the EV6 GT. This mode automatically puts the motors, brakes, steering, suspension, e-LSD, and ESC into their most dynamic settings. Of course, drivers can customize the functioning of each of these systems. Drivers can access the GT drive mode via a paddle behind the steering wheel.
5. Most powerful road-legal Kia ever
The Kia EV6 GT is the brand’s most powerful production car. Two motors, a 160 kW unit to spin the front wheels and a 270 kW unit to turn the rear wheels, deliver a combined power of 430 kW and combined torque of 740 Nm (545.7 lb-ft). The electronic-Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) improves traction and stability while cornering.
A 0-62 mph sprint takes just 3.5 seconds, and the top speed is 260 km/h (162 mph). Stopping power comes from 380 mm front and 360 mm rear ventilated disc brakes. A 77.4 kWh battery pack is standard in the EV6 GT, and it provides a WLTP range of 424 km (263 miles). Charging it from 10 to 80% takes as little as 18 minutes. The EPA-est. range is likely to fall between 200 and 225 miles.
The 2023 Kia EV6 GT will likely start arriving at U.S. dealers in the year’s final months, priced above USD 60,000.
Featured Image Source: Kia
Keyword: U.S.-bound Kia EV6 GT: 5 features that set it apart