In this guide, we’ll reveal the finest and worst Kia EV6 years to buy, backed by data from NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and Cars.com.
We’ll examine each model year’s reliability, safety, technology, common issues, recalls, and resale values. By the end, you’ll know exactly which EV6 years are worth your money – and which to avoid.
Ready to become a Kia EV6 expert?
Let’s plunge in and separate the electric champions from the losers!
Table of ContentsShow
Kia EV6 Generations
The Kia EV6 debuted in 2022, showcasing Kia’s electric ambitions. Built on the E-GMP platform, it offers an impressive 310-mile range and can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
With an optional dual-motor AWD setup, spacious high-tech interior, cutting-edge safety features, and a drool-worthy infotainment system, the EV6 is Kia’s recipe for electric excellence.
Let’s take a brief look at the EV6 generations from 2022 to today:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (CV) | 2022-Present |
We’ve laid out the generations to give you a bird’s-eye view of the EV6’s evolution. Keep in mind that the biggest changes often happen between generations, and these shifts could be the make-or-break factor in your decision.
Kia EV6 Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When we’re ranking these cars, we don’t just pull numbers out of thin air. Our ratings are based on a potpourri of factors, including (but not limited to):
- Reliability reports straight from the owners’ mouths
- How much cash you’ll need to keep aside for annual maintenance
- Safety ratings that’ll make your insurance agent smile
- Consumer Reports’ reliability scores and owner satisfaction ratings
- The dreaded trifecta: NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Owner ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com
Want to see how all these factors stack up? Check out this graph that combines ratings from our trusted sources:
Now, let’s break it down even further. Here’s a table that sorts all the model years into the best and the worst:
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (CV) | 2023 2024 | 2022 |
Remember, factors like NHTSA recalls can really drag a car’s score down. The more complaints and recalls a model year racks up, the further its reliability rating plummets.
Ready to explore the fine points of the best and worst years?
Let’s do it!
Best & Worst Years for Kia EV6 1st Generation (2022-Present)
The 1st-gen Kia EV6 hit the streets in 2022, showcasing Kia’s all-in bet on the electric future. Built on the sophisticated E-GMP platform, this EV comes loaded with goodies like superfast charging, remarkable range, and enough high-tech safety features to make a fighter jet jealous.
The Best Years: 2023, 2024
If you’re in the market for an EV6, the 2023 and 2024 models are your ideal tickets. These newer iterations have ironed out some kinks and cranked up the performance meter.
Take the 2023 EV6, for instance. It’s like a buffet of engine options – you’ve got your standard single-motor RWD setup pushing out a respectable 225 horses, or you can go all-out with the dual-motor AWD beast that churns out a whopping 320 hp. And let’s talk efficiency – we’re looking at an estimated 117 MPGe combined for the RWD standard range versions. That’s not just good; that’s “thumb your nose at gas stations” good.
Fast forward to 2024, and Kia’s still on a roll. They’ve kept all the good stuff and sprinkled in even more advanced safety tech. The cherry on top? The latest version of Kia’s Highway Driving Assist – it’s like having a co-pilot who never gets drowsy.
Both years offer a smorgasbord of trim levels – Wind, GT-Line, and the performance-junkie’s dream, the GT. Slip inside, and you’re greeted by interiors that’ll make you question if you accidentally wandered into a luxury car showroom. We’re talking a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that looks like it’s straight out of a sci-fi flick, and a 14-speaker Meridian audio system that’ll have you hearing parts of your favorite songs you never knew existed.
The best part? Owners of these newer models are reporting fewer headaches compared to the inaugural year. That’s music to any potential buyer’s ears.
The Worst Year: 2022
Now, about that 2022 model – let’s just say it’s the Kia EV6 year you might want to swipe left on. Why? Well, it’s got some baggage.
Owners have been singing the blues about the electrical system, particularly when it comes to the 12V battery and something called the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU). These aren’t just trivial annoyances – we’re talking stalling issues and charging problems. For an electric car, that’s like a chef with a broken oven – not ideal.
The 2022 model also got hit with some recalls, including one that had people worried about losing drive power due to a damaged charging unit. Not exactly the kind of excitement you want from your new ride.
But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom. Even with these hiccups, the 2022 EV6 still packs a wallop under the hood. You’re looking at options ranging from a modest 167 hp in the base model to a tire-squealing 320 hp in the GT-Line AWD. And when it comes to sipping electrons, it’s still rather impressive with up to 117 MPGe for the RWD versions.
Want to delve deeper into the 2022 model’s rap sheet?
Check out the NHTSA 2022 Kia EV6 recalls and issues. It’s like a greatest hits compilation, but for car problems.
Kia EV6 Resale Values
Curious about how well the EV6 holds its value? Take a gander at this graph showing typical resale values:
Conclusion
So, what’s the verdict? If you’re itching to get behind the wheel of a Kia EV6, the 2023 and 2024 models are your best bets for reliability and cutting-edge features.
But if someone tries to sell you a 2022 model, maybe pump the brakes – unless you’re up for handling some electrical gremlins.
Now, we’ve thrown a lot of info your way, but we’re inquisitive – which EV6 model year has caught your eye? Are you team 2023, or are you courageous enough to roll the dice on a 2022?
Drop your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s get the conversation charging!
