Introduction: The Kia EV6, honored with the prestigious 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of The Year (NACTOY) award in January, is now commemorating this achievement with an exclusive special edition. Limited to just 1,000 units, the Kia EV6 Special Edition boasts distinctive visual enhancements that set it apart.
Exclusive Features and Design: Kia America has unveiled the limited-run EV6 at The Quail, featuring bespoke design elements that pay homage to its NACTOY victory. The special edition stands out with its unique Deep Forest Green paint option. Additionally, the EV6 Special Edition showcases blacked-out exterior components such as wheel arches, side skirts, and mirrors, borrowing inspiration from the EV6 Wind variant, as confirmed by Kia America.
Interior Details: Inside the limited edition electric crossover, you’ll find NACTOY medallions and an enticing “teaser silhouette” of the vehicle next to the gear selector. These special touches are designed to enhance the exclusivity of the model. The interior showcases the EV6 GT-Line’s 20-inch alloy wheels and sunroof, further emphasizing its premium feel.
Performance and Powertrain: Under the hood, the limited edition EV6 draws power from the all-wheel-drive GT-Line’s motors, generating a combined output of 320 horsepower and an impressive 446 pound-feet of torque. This performance is fueled by the 77.4-kilowatt-hour battery, a technology also shared with Hyundai Motor Group’s other E-GMP-based EVs like the Ioniq 5 and Genesis GV60.
Price and Availability: While exact pricing details are set to be revealed closer to the vehicle’s release later this year, the significance of this special edition cannot be understated. According to Jeff Gilbert, the president of North American Car, Truck, and Utility of the Year, the Kia EV6 was deemed superior in terms of driving dynamics, pricing, and rapid charging capability by jurors.
NACTOY Recognition: The North American Car, Truck, and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) award holds great esteem, and the Kia EV6’s recognition further cements its place as a standout in the electric vehicle market. Comprising 50 automotive journalists from the US and Canada, NACTOY evaluates vehicles based on a range of criteria, including innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction, and value.
Market Position: While the Kia EV6 has demonstrated its remarkable qualities, its sales figures have yet to rival some of its competitors. Year-to-date sales in the US totaled 10,265 units, reflecting a 28 percent decrease compared to the previous year. An important consideration for potential buyers is that the EV6 does not qualify for the $7,500 tax credit. However, lease options may provide an attractive solution, depending on the buyer’s location.
Conclusion: The limited edition Kia EV6 Special Edition marks a significant milestone for the brand, celebrating its NACTOY triumph in style. With its distinct design, exceptional performance, and exclusive features, this special edition encapsulates the essence of the award-winning EV6 model.