Kia Unveils Refreshed EV6 with Larger Battery, NACS Port, and a Fake Gear Shift

Kia showcased its updated 2025 EV6 at the LA Auto Show, featuring a suite of enhancements, including a larger battery, a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, and new production plans in Georgia to improve eligibility for U.S. EV tax credits.

The refreshed EV6 introduces several updates to its design, performance, and technology. Most notably, the vehicle now offers an 84kWh battery option for extended range, up from 77kWh in the previous model. Base models also receive a boost, with the smaller battery upgraded to 63kWh. The larger battery includes improved vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities, now capable of delivering up to 12kW of power—enough to power a home with a compatible Wallbox Quasar charger.

The EV6’s trim lineup has been revised, featuring the 63kWh Light RWD as the base model and three 84kWh trims with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive options. The high-performance GT trim, available only in AWD, now delivers 601hp, a 25hp increase from its predecessor. Kia has also introduced a “Virtual Gear Shift” feature for the GT model, simulating manual gear shifts with visual, sound, and tactile feedback.

“These updates enhance the EV6’s appeal as a leader in the electric vehicle market, combining innovative technology with improved performance and convenience,” Kia stated.

The EV6 also now includes Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC), enabling over-the-air updates for the first time. The 2025 model integrates a NACS charging port, simplifying access to Tesla’s Supercharger network without requiring adapters. This aligns with the vehicle’s updated charging port location, now positioned at the left rear—mirroring Tesla’s configuration to facilitate compatibility.

In a significant move, Kia has relocated production of the EV6 (except for the GT trim) to its Georgia plant, aligning with incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This shift allows more customers to qualify for federal EV tax credits, making the EV6 more accessible.

“The production shift not only strengthens Kia’s commitment to the U.S. market but also supports the growing demand for locally manufactured EVs,” the automaker emphasized.

With these updates, the Kia EV6 solidifies its position as a competitive and versatile option in the electric vehicle market, catering to both tech-savvy drivers and those seeking convenience in EV ownership.