The very much anticipated Kia EV6 has arrived in New Zealand and the AA was lucky enough to attend the launch event. Kia New Zealand announced the new All-Electric Crossover is available from $72,990 plus on-road costs, with two of the models making it under the $80K cut off for a Clean Car Discount.

The Kia EV6 crossover is the brand’s first-ever dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) built on an all-new platform and certainly lives up to the company's brand slogan – ‘Movement that inspires’. And according to Kia New Zealand’s managing director Todd McDonald “the all-new Kia EV6 is synonymous with captivating design, an outstanding all-round experience for driver and passengers, as well as leading EV technology.”

“It is an attainable entry into the world of electric vehicles and sustainable motoring, one which over-delivers in terms of a dynamic drive, interior spaciousness and embracing world-class features and attributes,” said Mr McDonald.

The two Kia EV6 models which are under the Government’s Clean Car rebate ceiling are the EV6 Air Rear-Wheel-Drive Standard Range with a 58.0 kWh battery and the EV6 Air Rear-Wheel-Drive Long Range with the larger 77.4 kWh battery, priced from $72,990 and $78,990 respectively.

Dynamic driving experience

Engineers have achieved a dynamic driving experience through utilising a ‘long-and-low’ vehicle architecture, resulting in a low centre of gravity which contributes to an engaging and communicative experience for the driver and a feeling of roominess for all passengers.

“The ride, thanks in part to a locally tuned handling package for Australasia, is best described as accomplished and polished. It’s as close to perfect as can be for everyone in the vehicle,” said Mr McDonald.

The EV6 Air RWD Long Range model can travel up to 528km on a single charge, is rated to tow up to 1600kg braked* and is capable of charging from 10% to 80% in 18-minutes.

Spacious and futuristic interior

The interior of the EV6 is centred around two dual-curved 12.3-inch screens, combined giving 24.6-inches of high-definition LCD display, which deliver all vehicle as well as infotainment details.

The spaciousness within the cabin environment is impressive, and according to Kia, is similar to that of vehicles from larger segments.

To add to the acoustics in the GT Line, an immersive sound experience is available thanks to the inclusion of a 14-speaker Meridian™ Audio system. The smart technology is able to detect an open window or sunroof and adjust sound levels accordingly.

Dramatic exterior design

The aesthetics of the new model are dramatic and captivating. Character lines run along the bottom of doors and curve up towards the rear wheel arches, creating a sense of forward motion even when stationary.

The exterior appearance is elevated with the inclusion of an LED lighting package around the vehicle, consisting of LED front headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED rear combination lamps. The look is completed by a black glossy beltline.

In addition, thoughtful touches have been incorporated into the new vehicle, all of which combine to make a significant and bold statement.

“For example, this is the first Kia application of auto-flush door handles, with customised operation via an extensive personalised options list,” said Mr McDonald.

Smart innovative new features

In keeping with the technology story of the new model, Remote Smart Parking Assist is a forward-thinking feature introduced on the new Kia EV6, over and above what Sorento and Sportage customers already enjoy - such as remote parallel parking. Simply, the driver is able to operate parking commands for the vehicle whilst standing outside and alongside it.

This feature is particularly useful for getting into and out of tight parking spaces such as garages, as well as retrieving your vehicle from a shopping mall carpark when someone has inadvertently parked too close to your driver side door.

Other innovative features include the ‘Vehicle to Load’ (V2L) and ‘Vehicle to Vehicle’ (V2V) plug, which makes the EV6 a power source on wheels capable of supporting electrical appliances, power tools through to camping equipment - enough to power 70 40-inch tv screens.

Optional Moonscape Matte Body Colour $1,450

*optional towbar required and provided there is more than 35% of charge left in the battery.