Kia EV6 Facelift Range Test: Can It Achieve a 500 km Real-World Run?

By Raghav

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Kia EV6
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Kia EV6 Facelift Range Test; The 2025 Kia EV6 Facelift, equipped with a larger 84 kWh battery, achieved a real-world combined range of approximately 498 km, which is close to its official WLTP figure of 581 km, and a highway range of about 560 km. Testing showed better efficiency on the highway compared to city driving, with one test noting that increased ambient temperatures negatively impacted city efficiency.

Kia EV6 Overview

AspectDetail
Battery UpgradeIncreased from 77.4 kWh to 84 kWh
Claimed WLTP RangeUp to 581 km (face-lifted RWD version)
Real-World Combined RangeApproximately 498 km (Mumbai test loop)
City EfficiencyAround 5.18 km/kWh
Highway EfficiencyApproximately 6.67 km/kWh
Test RouteCity and highway mix with Eco mode and AC usage
Charging Architecture800V platform enabling rapid 10–80% charging in ~18 minutes
Drivetrain LayoutRWD and Twin Motor AWD variants available
Ride and HandlingImproved chassis comfort and noise insulation
PracticalitySpacious crossover design with fast charging and refined cabin

Introduction: Real vs. Rated Range Insights

The refreshed Kia EV6 facelift has been designed to strengthen its position in the premium EV crossover space with an improved battery pack, upgraded comfort features, and a sharper driving experience. While the official WLTP figure of up to 581 km is impressive on paper, the real test lies in everyday driving. With air conditioning, infotainment, and stop-start traffic included, can the EV6 truly deliver close to 500 km of range in India’s real-world conditions? The answer is encouraging.

The Battery Upgrade: More Juice, Same Platform

One of the biggest highlights of the facelift is the upgraded 84 kWh battery, up from the earlier 77.4 kWh pack. This represents an 8 percent gain in capacity without changing the vehicle’s footprint or weight balance significantly. Importantly, Kia continues to use its advanced 800V E-GMP architecture. This not only allows greater efficiency but also ensures that the EV6 retains one of the fastest charging speeds available in the industry. A rapid 10–80 percent recharge can be achieved in under 20 minutes with high-capacity DC fast chargers, making long-distance travel more practical than ever.

Methodology: Testing Conditions and Driving Modes

To understand its real-world range, the EV6 facelift was tested in Mumbai under a mix of city traffic and highway cruising. The car was driven exclusively in Eco mode to simulate what most efficiency-conscious owners would do. The air conditioning system, infotainment, and other electricals were all kept on during the test to reflect true daily driving conditions. The test route allowed a balance between urban stop-go driving and highway stretches, ensuring that results reflected both ends of the usage spectrum.

Range Performance: Real-World vs. WLTP Claims

Kia claims a WLTP-tested range of up to 581 km for the facelifted EV6. In our practical test, the car managed an impressive 498 km before needing a recharge, which is remarkably close to the official claim. In purely urban conditions, the EV6 achieved 5.18 km per kWh, translating to around 435 km of total range. On the highway, its efficiency shot up to 6.67 km per kWh, which equates to roughly 560 km of range. This makes the EV6 one of the few EVs capable of genuine long-distance usability on Indian roads.

Handling, Comfort, and Chassis Refinement

Beyond range, the facelift focuses heavily on making the EV6 more enjoyable and comfortable to drive. The suspension setup has been retuned for a softer, more compliant ride. Noise insulation has been improved, reducing road and wind noise inside the cabin. Even on uneven city roads and high-speed stretches, the EV6 feels stable and planted. Steering response remains sharp, making the crossover easy to maneuver despite its size. This balance between comfort and handling ensures that both city commutes and highway drives remain stress-free.

Fast Charging Capabilities and Practical Recharging

The 800V charging platform is one of the defining features of the EV6. While the upgraded 84 kWh pack is larger, it still supports ultra-fast charging when paired with compatible stations. Charging from 10 percent to 80 percent can be done in under 20 minutes on a 350 kW DC fast charger. On a more common 50 kW public charger, a full charge takes around 90 minutes. This flexibility ensures that whether you are on a highway trip or relying on city charging points, the EV6 remains practical to own and operate.

Real-World Usability: Daily Comfort and Practical Needs

The Kia EV6 continues to excel as a family-friendly EV crossover. Its cabin is spacious, with supportive seats that are ideal for long drives. The infotainment system is intuitive, featuring seamless smartphone integration and advanced driver assistance technologies. Practical touches like ample boot space, multiple charging ports, and clever storage solutions make it well-suited for both urban users and road-trip enthusiasts. The facelift also improves ride comfort significantly, thanks to revised suspension and enhanced cabin materials.

Competitive Position: Range, Refinement, and Value

The premium EV market in India is growing rapidly, and the EV6 facelift positions itself as one of the strongest offerings. Its near-500 km real-world range sets it apart from many rivals, while its fast-charging capabilities offer unmatched convenience. Compared to alternatives, the EV6 strikes a strong balance between performance, comfort, and advanced features. The facelift ensures that Kia remains competitive in a space dominated by global EV giants.

Final Verdict: Yes, a 500 km Run Is Achievable

The Kia EV6 facelift proves that EVs are no longer limited to short commutes or city driving. With its upgraded 84 kWh battery, real-world efficiency figures, and ultra-fast charging support, it is capable of comfortably delivering close to 500 km on a single charge. Add to that its premium comfort, refined ride quality, and practical design, and the EV6 emerges as one of the most convincing premium EVs available today. For buyers looking for an electric crossover that truly delivers on both performance and practicality, the facelifted Kia EV6 is a compelling option.

Raghav

MK Vats, the founder of MotorElectra. Our team has combined expertise in engineering, research, journalism, and market analysis, which allows us to deliver not only reliable information but also practical insights that can help you make better choices about automobiles.

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