The Kia EV6, the automaker’s first dedicated electric model that made its debut in 2021, might still seem youthful, but preparations are underway for an update. A facelifted version is currently under development, set to make its debut next year. This update aims to bring the EV6 in line with Kia’s newer EV models in both styling and technology.
Heavily camouflaged prototypes are already on the move in South Korea, indicating that it won’t be long before our spy photographers capture the testers in Europe and North America. While we await their spy shots, we’ve prepared a speculative rendering to provide you with a glimpse of what to anticipate from the upcoming facelift.
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David Hilber, Kia Europe’s Marketing Director, shared some insights with Auto Express regarding the upcoming “enhancements” for the EV6, saying that the adoption of a common design language with the EV9 is “something to look forward to”. This confirms that the facelifted EV6 will draw inspiration from the styling cues seen in the Kia EV3, EV4, and EV5, all of which showcase the refreshed design language introduced by the flagship EV9.
Typical of mid-lifecycle updates, the profile and overall silhouette are expected to remain largely unchanged from the outgoing model, except for potential new alloy wheel designs and trim variations. However, for the EV6, significant changes are anticipated at the front end, including a redesigned bumper and more intricate headlight units. The rear end may see minor alterations to the taillight graphics, but its futuristic appearance is likely to be retained.
Inside, the EV6 could inherit the triple-screen panel from the EV9 which also found its way in the smaller EV5 compact SUV. We also expect a redesigned steering wheel and new options for the upholstery alongside richer equipment in the areas of autonomous driving and connectivity.
Regarding the underpinnings, it’s likely that the current powertrain choices and battery capacities will be retained. Major changes beneath the surface are not anticipated until the next generation, when the E-GMP platform will be replaced by the Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA). This also applies to the forthcoming mid-lifecycle update of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which shares similarities with the Kia EV6.
Hilbert didn’t provide an exact debut date but outlined Kia’s strategy, which involves a facelift every 3 years and a new generation every 6 years. This suggests that we can expect the refreshed Kia EV6 to be unveiled by mid-2024, likely arriving in the U.S. as a 2025 model year vehicle.
Note: This independent rendering is off-the-record and unrelated to Kia.
