2025 Kia EV6 Refresh: Better Range, Charging, and Fun
The 2025 Kia EV6 has received a significant midcycle refresh, elevating an already impressive electric vehicle to new heights. This update isn't just a cosmetic tweak; it represents a substantial leap forward, earning it a spot in contention for the MotorTrend Of The Year competition.
Engineering Innovations Take Center Stage
The most impactful changes lie beneath the surface, with Kia's engineering team achieving remarkable feats. A key development is the introduction of a new, higher-capacity battery. By leveraging new chemistry and advanced management systems, Kia has boosted battery capacity by 9 percent without increasing its physical size or weight. This translates directly into enhanced driving range, with every trim level now offering up to an additional 18 miles on a single charge.
In a move that streamlines the charging experience, the EV6 now features the Tesla-developed NACS charging port. This integration grants owners seamless access to Tesla Superchargers, eliminating the need for adapters. Furthermore, the implementation of new plug-and-charge software simplifies the process, allowing for automatic authentication and payment without requiring the user to interact with an app or swipe a credit card. For added convenience, the charging port itself has been relocated to the opposite side of the vehicle, improving accessibility at older Supercharger installations.
Beyond the battery and charging advancements, other notable engineering improvements contribute to a refined driving experience. The adoption of a phone-as-key system allows drivers to leave their traditional key fobs at home, offering a more convenient and secure way to access and start the vehicle. Small yet significant revisions to the cantilevered center console have enhanced its ergonomics. Additionally, a newly engineered power steering system noticeably sharpens steering response, imbuing even the mid-range Wind model with a sportier and more engaging feel.
A Refined Aesthetic
Kia has successfully navigated the potential pitfalls of midcycle design updates, avoiding any backward steps. The refreshed exterior presents a futuristic yet uncluttered aesthetic. The new power-extending exterior door handles are both functional and stylish, integrating seamlessly into the vehicle's design. Internally, the new green and white interior color scheme garnered particular praise from reviewers, adding a fresh and sophisticated ambiance.
Areas for Improvement Persist
Despite the comprehensive upgrades, some aspects of the EV6 remain areas for potential refinement. The dual-purpose, touch-sensitive control panel, which toggles between climate and entertainment functions, continues to be a point of contention. The button to switch functions can be difficult to locate, and the overall concept introduces unnecessary complexity, often diverting the driver's attention from the road when simple adjustments to volume or temperature are desired.
Another persistent gripe is the vehicle's inability to retain the i-Pedal one-pedal driving mode when switched off and then back on – a feature that many competing automakers have mastered. Finally, given the raked tailgate's impact on cargo space, the lack of a more substantial front trunk (frunk) remains a disappointing oversight.
The 2025 Kia EV6 refresh successfully makes an already excellent electric vehicle even better, solidifying its position as a top contender in the EV market. While these enhancements are commendable, they face stiff competition from other vehicles that have introduced more significant advancements across a broader range of categories. This review was conducted as part of the 2026 SUV of the Year (SUVOTY) testing, where vehicles are assessed based on efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function. Eligible vehicles must be entirely new or substantially revised.
