Kia EV6 among the finalists for 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

MANILA: The Kia EV6 has been selected as one of three finalists for the 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) Awards, highlighting Kia's global transition to sustainable mobility. This announcement, which was revealed at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, comes only three years after the Kia Telluride SUV received the same honor and went on to win the prestigious award.

“The EV6 signals a new era for our brand as we venture out to the forefront of electrification, and we are honored that it has been named a finalist for the coveted North American Utility Vehicle of the Year Award. This innovative EV crossover leverages its advanced platform to set a high watermark in all areas, including technology, performance and convenience,” Kia America Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President Steven Center stated.

After spending months driving dozens of new cars throughout the year, NACTOY judges cast their votes on the top contenders. To be qualified, vehicles must be all-new or substantially new, and they must be accessible at dealerships within a reasonable time after the announcement of the awards on January 11, 2023. There are 13 semi-finalists in the utility category this year.

Kia EV6 revolutionizes the crossover SUV segment with its long-range, zero-emissions power, 800V ultra-fast charging, and striking looks. Kia EV6 is the first Kia model built on the brand's newly developed platform for battery-electric vehicles.

Kia EV6 features a new visual identity, which combines bold stylistic elements and sculptural shapes to evoke natural energy. The core of the EV6 design is a new visual identity, which combines bold stylistic elements and sculptural shapes to evoke natural energy. The EV6 is a representation of human-centered, forward-thinking design and electrified power. The design is unusual and noteworthy, and it is set to determine Kia's future. It received numerous accolades, including the 2022 iF Design Award and 2022 Red Dot Award.

The side profile features a crossover-inspired form that is sleek and aerodynamic. To visually extend the car's profile, a character line runs down the bottom of the doors and curves upward into the rear wheel arches. The rear features a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert that seems to stretch the window glass, designed in part to obtain optimal aerodynamic performance. Above this, there is a prominent wing-type roof spoiler that directs air in a downward direction toward the car's signature rear light cluster, which is topped by a raised lower spoiler. This has a significant impact on the Kia EV6's outstanding 500+km range.

The flat under-floor battery gives the Kia EV6's interior more space and versatility. Kia's dedicated Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) has a major positive impact on the interior design. Despite having a compact body, the Kia EV6's 2,900mm wheelbase gives it a cabin that is comparable to that of many midsize SUVs.

Kia EV6 is powered by a fully-electric powertrain that includes a high-voltage battery pack and a 168kW electric motor. It produces 350Nm of torque and can accelerate from a standstill to 100kph in 7.3 seconds.

Kia EV6 made its Philippine debut last September at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS). Kia EV6 sales in the Philippines will begin in early 2023. According to Kia Philippines, its price will be below P4 million.

Photo from Kia

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