I got to review the EV6 facelift in Europe last year, and it has been confirmed to hit U.S. shores as the 2025 Kia EV6 by this June. Kia has refined the design, tech, and performance while keeping the low-slung crossover’s identity intact. During my time with the U.S.-spec 2024 EV6, I noticed areas that needed improvement, and the new model addresses many of them.
Here are the 9 changes that buyers in the U.S. waiting for the 2025 Kia EV6 should know about:
1. Sharpened Looks
Kia gives the EV6 a stronger family resemblance with ‘Star Map’ headlights and revised three-dimensional taillights, which I can confirm, having seen the vehicle, makes it seem wider than it is. The front bumper gets sharper angles, and the rear bumper features a wing shape similar to that of the front of the vehicle. Kia has confirmed unique bumper patterns for each model so every EV6 trim will have a slightly different look.
New wheel designs, ranging from 19 to 21 inches, add to the sportier stance. For more convenience, the auto pop-out flush door handles are standard across the lineup.
2. +9 miles Range & +400 lbs Towing
The standard battery now holds 63 kWh, while the larger 84 kWh pack offers an estimated 319 miles of range (up from 310 miles) in rear-wheel-drive Light LR, Wind, and GT-Line trims. Power outputs remain competitive, with AWD models producing up to 320 hp, and the EV6 GT pushing 641 hp in GT mode. The 84.0 kWh battery version now boasts a 2,700-lb towing capacity, with automatic trailer weight detection that adjusts the vehicle’s range estimates.
3. New infotainment system & streaming
The interior features a curved dual 12.3-inch display integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The infotainment system runs Kia’s next-gen Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) with improved processing speed and over-the-air updates. Owners can now personalize the display with their favorite NBA team’s colors and logos. In-car video streaming adds further entertainment options to the 2025 EV6.
4. NACS Charging Port & V2G
To improve convenience, Kia moves the charge port (except on GT models) to the left rear fender. The EV6 now supports the North American Charging Standard (NACS), allowing access to Tesla Superchargers. While details are awaited, the EV6 should have the capability to power its owner’s home during a blackout, and can potentially sell energy back to the power grid with the new V2G feature.
We’ve made updates to the battery system that will now enable vehicle to grid capabilities.
Eric Watson, VP of Sales Operations at Kia America, at the new EV6’s U.S. premiere in Los Angeles on November 21, 2024
5. Refined Interior
Kia has added sound-absorbing materials for a quieter cabin for model year 2025. The redesigned center console swaps out gloss black for a coarser texture, and hosts the redesigned mobile phone charger with anti-slip surface.
6. Steering System Improvements
The steering column is now a belt-type system for improved responsiveness, while an electric tilt-and-telescopic steering adjustment adds convenience. The steering wheel is new, and the D-shaped design looks quite upmarket and felt grippier in my experience. For MY2025, it comes with hands-on detection to ensure drivers are staying focused on the road.
7. Enhanced Parking Assistance
The 2025 EV6 gains an improved Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 system for better maneuverability in tight spaces. Forward, side, and reverse parking collision avoidance features enhance safety. Highway Driving Assist now aids in lane changes under certain conditions.
8. Digital Key 2.0
The EV6 now supports Digital Key 2.0, allowing drivers to unlock and start the car using compatible smartphones or NFC smart cards, with key-sharing options. This allows the user to lock, unlock, and drive even with their phone in the pocket or bag. The owner can also share a digital key with another user just by sending a text.
9. Assembled in America
The EV6 will join the EV9 in our U.S. assembly plant in West Point, Georgia.
Eric Watson, VP of Sales Operations at Kia America, at the new EV6’s U.S. premiere in Los Angeles on November 21, 2024
Kia will build the new EV6 (except the high-performance GT) at its plant in West Point, Georgia. This move should help with supply chain efficiency and potential federal tax credits for buyers. We’re expecting prices to be announced in the coming weeks, which should begin at under USD 45,000.
Featured image: Kia
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
