The Kia EV6 GT Long Range 77.4 kWh, producing 585 horsepower, is a high-performance variant of the EV6 electric crossover. Introduced in March 2021 and continuing through the 2024 model year, it represents Kia’s foray into the burgeoning high-performance EV market. Positioned as the flagship trim of the EV6 lineup, the GT Long Range aimed to deliver exhilarating acceleration and a substantial driving range, competing with established players like the Tesla Model Y Performance and Ford Mustang Mach-E GT. It’s built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), shared with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, allowing for a dedicated EV architecture optimized for performance and packaging.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | EV6 |
| Generation | EV6 |
| Type (Engine) | GT Long Range 77.4 kWh (585 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | March, 2021 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 260 km/h (161.56 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 275.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 348.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 77.4 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 72.5 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery weight | 487 kg (1073.65 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 400 km (248.55 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 22.7 kWh/100 km (36.53 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 92 |
| km/kWh | 4.4 |
| mi/kWh | 2.7 |
| Electric motor 1 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Synchronous |
| System power | 585 Hp |
| System torque | 740 Nm (545.8 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2125-2185 kg (4684.82 – 4817.1 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2610 kg (5754.07 lbs) |
| Max load | 425-485 kg (936.96 – 1069.24 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1260 l (44.5 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs) |
| Length | 4695 mm (184.84 in) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in) |
| Height | 1545 mm (60.83 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm (114.17 in) |
| Front overhang | 845 mm (33.27 in) |
| Rear overhang | 950 mm (37.4 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft) |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 255/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 21 |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The EV6 GT Long Range utilizes a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. Each axle is driven by a synchronous electric motor. The combined system output is a substantial 585 horsepower and 545.8 lb-ft of torque. The 77.4 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, positioned under the floor, provides a usable capacity of 72.5 kWh. Kia employs an 800V charging architecture, enabling ultra-fast DC charging capabilities – capable of adding significant range in a short amount of time. The powertrain doesn’t have a traditional engine, and therefore lacks components like a valvetrain or fuel injection system. Instead, it relies on sophisticated power electronics and battery management systems to control energy flow and optimize performance. The single-speed automatic transmission is integral to the electric motors, providing seamless power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The EV6 GT Long Range delivers exceptionally quick acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 3.3 seconds. The dual-motor AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to confident handling. Compared to the standard EV6 or the rear-wheel-drive variants, the GT offers a significantly more engaging driving experience. The single-speed transmission provides instant torque, eliminating the need for gear changes. While the focus is on performance, the EV6 GT doesn’t entirely sacrifice comfort, offering a reasonably compliant ride for everyday driving. The GT trim also features sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes for improved handling and stopping power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GT Long Range trim came generously equipped. Standard features included premium Nappa leather upholstery, sport seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and various exterior color options. The interior design emphasized a modern and minimalist aesthetic, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout.
Chassis & Braking
The EV6 GT Long Range features an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is tuned for performance, offering a firmer ride than the standard EV6. Larger ventilated disc brakes (380mm front, 360mm rear) provide ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is calibrated to work in conjunction with the AWD system to maximize traction and control. The steering is electrically assisted, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia EV6 GT Long Range was generally well-received by automotive critics. Praise was given for its impressive acceleration, long driving range, and fast charging capabilities. Some reviewers noted that the ride could be firm on rough roads. Compared to the Tesla Model Y Performance, the EV6 GT offered a more traditional interior layout and a more engaging driving experience for some drivers. Against the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, the EV6 GT often stood out for its faster charging times and more refined interior. Fuel economy, expressed as MPGe, was rated at 92, and energy consumption at 36.53 kWh per 100 miles.
Legacy
The Kia EV6 GT Long Range established Kia as a serious contender in the high-performance EV segment. The E-GMP platform proved to be a capable foundation for a performance EV, and the 800V charging architecture set a new standard for charging speed. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, early reports suggest that the EV6’s powertrain is proving to be robust. On the used car market, the EV6 GT Long Range holds its value well, reflecting its performance capabilities and desirable features. It represents a significant step forward for Kia in terms of technology, performance, and brand image.
