2025 KIA EV6 DEBUTS AT LA AUTO SHOW WITH DESIGN UPDATES, MORE TECH, AND ENHANCED BATTERY CAPACITY
After making a bold entrance into the EV market nearly three years ago and earning numerous industry accolades, including the 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, a significantly refreshed Kia EV6 was unveiled today at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. Featuring updated front and rear designs, enhanced premium interior touches, and newly packaged trim levels with added features and amenities, the EV6 continues to strengthen its position in the CUV and EV segments by building on its award-winning formula.
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“We are incredibly proud of the success the EV6 has achieved since its launch,” said Steven Center, COO and EVP, Kia America. “The EV6 represents Kia’s forward-thinking approach to electrification, and with this refreshed model, we are excited to build on that success by offering even more style, technology, and features that our customers will love. We can’t wait to see how this next chapter of the EV6 continues to drive excitement and push boundaries in the EV market.”
The 2025 EV6 will be assembled at Kia Georgia’s assembly plant alongside the EV9 and will be available in Light (RWD only), Light Long Range (RWD or e-AWD), Wind (RWD or e-AWD), GT-Line (RWD or e-AWD), and GT (e-AWD) trims. It’s expected to go on sale in the first half of next year.
STYLING: KEEPING UP WITH THE KIA FAMILY
The 2025 EV6 has evolved with the newer Kia models, with subtle yet impactful updates that maintain its unmistakable identity while giving it a sportier edge. Kia’s signature Star Map lighting shapes the new headlights and DRLs, giving it a high-tech look with wing-like graphics that help create a wider, more dynamic appearance. The front bumper sports sharper angles while character lines on the hood that extend to the air intake add contrast and depth to the overall front design. From the rear, three-dimensional taillights also take after the Star Map design language, while the rear bumper adopts a wide, wing-type shape that visually ties the rear design to the front. The 2025 EV6’s side profile changes slightly, as a result of the front and rear cladding and a more sharply angled side sill molding that enhances the EV’s stance. New wheel designs, available in 19- to 21-inch sizes depending on the trim level, maintain the EV6’s striking appearance while offering a fresh look.
Inside, the EV6’s horizontal design theme enhances the cabin’s wide, open feel. The driver-centric layout features a standard curved dual 12.3-inch display that integrates the instrument cluster and center screen, offering an immersive visual experience. Inspired by the award-winning EV9, the 2025 EV6 now features Star Map lighting, a D-shaped steering wheel, and an updated center console with a sleek new finish, all contributing to its elevated high-tech, sporty aesthetic.
The EV6’s dimensions have been slightly adjusted for improved aesthetics and comfort. The overall length has incrementally increased by 0.6 inches, and the front overhang is longer by the same measure, creating a sportier stance.
PERFORMANCE: GOING THE EXTRA MILE(S)
After receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback following the addition of the 2024 EV6 Light Long Range with the larger battery pack, Kia continues to respond to consumer demand for greater range. For 2025, the EV6 introduces larger battery options, with the standard 63.0 kWh battery paired with a rear motor producing 167 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The available 84.0 kWh battery has a targeted to all-electric range of 319 miles2 in Light LR, Wind, and GT-Line trims with the RWD configuration. This setup comes with a rear motor making 225 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The more powerful AWD option combines dual motors to deliver 320 hp and 446 lb.-ft. of torque, while the EV6 GT makes 601 hp and 545 lb.-ft. of torque. With standard GT mode activated, the GT surges with an impressive 641 hp and 568 lb.-ft. of torque (up from 576 hp and 545 lb.-ft., respectively, from the 2024 EV6 GT). The GT’s new Virtual Gear Shift feature enhances driving immersion by simulating gear shifts with visuals, engine sound effects, and a tactile sensation through motor torque adjustments.
Fast charging remains a standout feature, with the EV6’s ultra-fast 800-volt DC charging system.5 To make charging more convenient, the charge port (excluding EV6 GT models) has been relocated to the left rear fender and is compatible with the North American Charging Standard6. The EV6 also introduces improvements to its Integrated Converter Control Unit (ICCU) with increased output density.
Enhanced ride and handling come by way of improved steering response thanks to a belt-type steering column, while an electric tilt & telescopic column adds convenience for the driver. To maintain a quiet cabin, sound absorption materials were added throughout, and the EV6’s frame was reinforced to meet more stringent IIHS safety standards.
For adventurers, the long-range model with the 84.0kWh battery boasts an improved towing rating7 of 2,700 lbs. and automatically detects trailer weight to adjust the distance-to-empty.
NEXT-GEN CONVENIENCE:
The EV6 will continue to deliver an innovative vehicle experience with Kia’s next-gen Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) operating system with faster processing, higher fidelity, and over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep the EV6 up to date with the latest software related to the powertrain, navigation, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)8. Through the new Kia Connect Store, the EV6 now offers a number of available Digital Features and Services9 designed to elevate in-vehicle entertainment and connectivity, including video and music streaming, gaming, and a Wi-Fi Hotspot. Drivers can also personalize the EV6’s display theme10 with their favorite NBA team’s colors and logos, showcasing their unwavering loyalty to their favorite NBA team.
Other new tech additions include an ultrawideband-based Digital Key 2.0 which allows customers to use their compatible smart devices or an NFC-enabled smart card as virtual vehicle keys to lock, unlock, and drive. This innovative technology allows the driver to unlock the EV6 without having to hold their smartphone. The system also supports key sharing via text on compatible devices for added convenience.
Further adding to driver convenience are enhanced parking features including Remote Smark Parking Assist 211, and Forward/Side/Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist12, along with Parking Distance Warning13. The EV6’s flush door handles with automatic deployment are now standard.
ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS (ADAS):
The 2025 EV6 continues to offer Kia’s suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 214, with newer features including Junction Turning Vehicle, Junction Crossing Vehicle, Lane Change Side Vehicle and Evasive Steering Assist. Also available is Highway Driving Assist 215, designed to maintain a predetermined distance from the vehicle detected in front, keep the vehicle within detected lane markers on certain highways, and assist in lane changes under certain conditions.
Kia America – about us
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles sold through a network of over 775 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*.
*Certain 2025 EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV/PHEV), Sorento (excludes HEV/PHEV), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.
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1 Distracted driving can result in the loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.
2 Electric range is not an official EPA estimate and is based on preliminary manufacturer estimates on a vehicle with a full charge. Range will vary and depends on a number of factors, including battery age, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, weather, road/traffic conditions, ambient temperature, driving habits, options, cargo and others. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use.
3 Over-the-Air features and updates may require an additional cost and may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply
4 Kia Digital Key requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. Normal cellular service rates may apply when using a smart device.
5 Actual charge time may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature, and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. Frequent use of DC fast charging can negatively impact battery performance and durability, and Kia recommends minimizing use of DC fast charging.
6 Excludes GT.
7 Towing may significantly reduce electric range and requires additional equipment. See Owner’s Manual for towing instructions. Always use caution while towing.
8 Advanced driver assistance systems are not substitutes for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
9 Digital Features and Services may require an additional cost and may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply. Complimentary subscription may not include all available features and services. Digital Features and Services may be currently unavailable for model year 2022 and newer vehicles sold in Massachusetts.
10 Display Themes are only available on models that have the latest ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) based infotainment system. Display Themes are currently available on all EV9 trims. An active Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply. Without an active Kia Connect subscription, Display Themes will not be operational. Once purchased, Display Themes are limited to use on the specific vehicle tied to purchase and cannot be transferred to other vehicles.
11 Remote Smart Parking Assist may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Please see the Owner’s Manual for limitations, warnings and instructions.
12 Forward/Side/Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
13 Parking Distance Warning is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
14 When engaged, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects in front of vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
15 When engaged, Highway Driving Assist is not a substitute for safe driving, may not detect all objects surrounding the vehicle, and only function on certain federal highways. Always drive safely and use caution.
SOURCE Kia America
