In Siddharth’s exclusive first drive review of the Kia EV6, he spoke at length about the design of the car, and what went behind the doors at the company’s HQ in Seoul, South Korea.
View Photos
Kia say the EV6 has the sportiness of a fastback, stance of a hatch, and, strength of a rally car.
First revealed in March 2021, the Kia EV6 electric crossover instantly captured the world’s attention. Not only was it Kia’s first electric vehicle (EV), but it was also the very first car to feature Kia’s new brand identity. In Siddharth’s exclusive first drive review of the Kia EV6, he spoke at length about the design of the car, and what went behind the doors at the company’s HQ in Seoul, South Korea. And while critics debated between its hatchback, crossover, or SUV looks, the designers at Kia, led by Lee Hyo-Sung and Choi Hong-Seok, wanted a different approach for the company’s electric era that is an evolution of the brand’s strengths in the exterior design.
Also Read: Exclusive: Kia EV6 Review
Karim Habib, Head, Kia Global Design Centre said, “The EV6 is a very important vehicle for the Kia brand, as it is our first fully dedicated EV with our best technology for a new era. We have the ambition to keep pushing the boundaries of automotive design and to back up product substance with inventive, bold, and forward-looking designs.”
Bagging the 2022 Red Dot Design Awards is a testimony to it, and the result is a combination of clear and simple lines with bold surfaces. The folks at Kia say that the EV6 has the sportiness of a fastback, the stance of a compact hatch, and, perhaps, a little of the raw strength of a rally car too. The front part is reminiscent of Kia’s Tiger Nose grille, but for the electrified era, that also includes the headlights equipped with a sequential lighting system.
Below this, a low air intake gives the impression of a wide front, while part of the airflow from the front is channeled through and under the car’s flat floor for better aerodynamics.
The side profile displays a crossover-inspired design aesthetic, which is modern, and sleek. This contrasts with sharp lines and details that look busy yet powerful. The swept-back windshield adds to the overall dynamism while the bold rear haunches add volume. A character line runs along the bottom of the doors curving upwards towards the rear wheel arches, stretching the profile of the car.
0 Comments
The rear displays a sloping rear C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert which widens the window glass. Above this sits a prominent roof spoiler that channels air downwards towards a raised lower spoiler which sits atop the car’s rear light cluster.
For the latest auto news and reviews, follow carandbike.com on Twitter, Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.