Kia EV6 GT March launch for NZ

The top-of-the-line Kia EV6 GT launches in New Zealand dealerships later this month.

It is priced from $139,990 (including GST plus on-road costs).

All-wheel drive dual motors can deliver 430kW of power and 740Nm torque, more than 400km range and the GT can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds.

Ultra-fast charging capability means the Kia EV6 GT can power up from 10-80% in 18 minutes.

It also has unique-to-GT suspension, steering, electric motors, chassis, a performance braking system, an upgraded traction battery, and interior features such as front GT seats.

Further upgraded from the GT-Line battery, the GT has increased power (up from 253kW to 481kW) and a cell capacity increase from 55.6Ah to 111.2Ah.

The 21-inch machine finished alloy wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.

“The Kia EV6 GT is the most powerful and fastest model to ever wear the Kia badge, it is the new halo model for the brand and is a massive statement of intent for us,” says Kia New Zealand managing director Todd McDonald.

“This is one incredibly special car and is the epitome of what a GT should be, a spacious and comfortable vehicle capable of devouring touring kilometres with ease, with power and performance available when required.”

The front motor increases from 70kW/255Nm to 160kW/350Nm, while the rear motor jumps from 160kW/350Nm to 270kW/390Nm.

The front suspension has been heavily modified for the EV6 GT, with new geometry and kinematics.  The stabilising lower arm of the MacPherson strut-based suspension is replaced with a new, two-arm set-up to better manage vertical movements and maintain consistent contact with the road surface under increased cornering loads and over variable-quality surfaces.

At the rear the five multi-link type suspension is (like the front suspension) enhanced with electronically controlled damping,

The EV6 GT gains its own variable gear ratio steering system, a highly communicative set-up that builds weight progressively as speeds increase. There are 2.3 turns lock-to-lock, compared to 2.67 for the standard EV6.

In its most focused GT Mode setting, the EV6 GT’s steering system has been specially calibrated for dynamic driving by increasing sensitivity to inputs and delivering more immediate responses.

The new GT features front wheel strut rings and a rear wheel strut brace, the additional bracing elements improving vehicle yaw response, reducing response delay and improving rear conformability.

Race style, highly rigid monobloc neon green painted brake calipers clamp down on 380mm (20-inch) front discs and 360mm rear discs, which can work in combination with the multi adjustable regenerative braking system.

The GT’s limited slip differential features a mechanical multi-plate clutch pack and electronic control, actively controlling torque for the left and right wheels to improve driving handling performance.

It has the ability to tow up to 1800kg and additional functionality is achieved with two Vehicle to Load (V2L) options, including a V2L interior socket and a V2L exterior adaptor – the latter at an extra cost option.

“The EV6 GT is a car that exudes the power, performance and agility of a track worthy sports car, while also providing comfort, on-road drivability and practicality for everyday use,” says McDonald.

“The combination of super car performance, long touring range and ultra-fast charging means the EV6 GT is a truly exciting and capable GT for the electric era.”