If you're looking for an electric car that stands out from the crowd, Kia and Hyundai have two compelling options. The Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 share the same fundamental technology, but they couldn't be more different in their approach.
The EV6 takes the form of a sharp, modern crossover, blending family-friendly practicality with a sporty edge. The Ioniq 6, on the other hand, is a sleek, aerodynamic saloon with a unique "streamliner" design that turns heads wherever it goes. Both offer impressive range and rapid charging, but which one is the better electric car for you?
Kia EV6 vs Hyundai Ioniq 6
Practicality
Kia EV6 practicality score: 4/5
Hyundai Ioniq 6 practicality score: 3/5
Both cars benefit from a long wheelbase and a flat floor, creating a spacious feel inside. However, the EV6's more conventional crossover shape gives it a clear advantage in the practicality stakes. It has generous headroom all-round and a useful 490-litre boot. Rear-wheel-drive models also get a small storage area under the bonnet, often called a 'frunk'.
The Ioniq 6's dramatic, sloping roofline is a key part of its appeal, but it does compromise practicality. Rear headroom is tighter for taller passengers, and the saloon-style boot opening makes loading bulky items trickier. At 401 litres, the boot itself is also smaller than the Kia's. While both are roomy enough for a small family, if maximum space and versatility are your priorities, the EV6 is the better choice.
Driving Impressions
Kia EV6 driving score: 5/5
Hyundai Ioniq 6 driving score: 4/5
As they share the same platform, it's no surprise that both cars are good to drive. They offer the instant, smooth acceleration that makes EVs so relaxing in town, but they also handle well on a twisty road. The EV6, however, feels like the more polished and engaging car. It's comfortable and refined, yet it also feels agile, with a range that includes a rapid 577bhp GT model.
The Ioniq 6 is also composed and pleasant to drive, but its ride can feel a bit firm and fidgety on broken UK road surfaces, especially on the larger 20-inch wheels. While both cars offer rear- or all-wheel drive, the EV6 simply provides a more rounded and enjoyable driving experience across the board. Real-world range for both will be around 300 miles from a full charge, depending on conditions and driving style.
Technology and Equipment
Kia EV6 technology and equipment score: 5/5
Hyundai Ioniq 6 technology and equipment score: 5/5
This is a dead heat. Both cars are packed with the latest technology, dominated by a pair of slick 12.3-inch screens that form the infotainment system and driver's display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety features.
Both also feature vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, which allows you to use the car's main battery to power external devices like laptops or even other electric vehicles. Higher trim levels on both models add features like augmented-reality head-up displays, premium sound systems and 360-degree cameras. The Ioniq 6 offers optional digital side mirrors, but we'd stick with the standard ones. You won't feel short-changed on tech with either car.
Running Costs
Kia EV6 running costs score: 5/5
Hyundai Ioniq 6 running costs score: 5/5
As with any electric car, running costs can be very low if you can charge at home, particularly on a cheaper overnight electricity tariff. A full charge could cost as little as £10. Relying on the public rapid charging network will be significantly more expensive, often costing as much as petrol or diesel per mile.
Both cars are capable of ultra-fast charging, which can take the battery from 10-80% in as little as 18 minutes if you can find a powerful enough charger. Where the two brands differ is on warranty. Hyundai offers a solid five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. However, Kia's seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty is one of the best in the business and provides extra peace of mind, especially for used car buyers.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
|
Kia EV6 |
Hyundai Ioniq 6 |
| CarGurus expert rating |
5 out of 5 |
4 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating |
5.0 out of 5 |
0.0 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* |
27.5% |
29.1% |
| Overall CarGurus rating |
4.5 out of 5 |
3.9 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Kia EV6 Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5/5
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9/5
While the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a desirable and distinctive electric car, this is a convincing victory for its sibling, the Kia EV6. Based on our comprehensive CarGurus Buyer Insights, the EV6 scores higher with our experts and users, and its superior overall rating reflects its status as a more complete all-round package.
The EV6 combines a more engaging driving experience with greater practicality, making it an easier car to live with day-to-day. When you also factor in Kia's industry-leading seven-year warranty, the case for the EV6 becomes even stronger.
That’s not to say the Ioniq 6 should be overlooked. If you are captivated by its unique aerodynamic design and don't need the maximum possible boot space or rear headroom, it remains a stylish and technologically advanced EV. But for most buyers, the Kia EV6 is the smarter choice and the winner of this test.
Kia EV6 Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Engaging driving experience |
Less distinctive styling than the Ioniq 6 |
| Practical crossover shape |
Steering could offer more feel |
| Industry-leading seven-year warranty |
Interior isn't as avant-garde as the Hyundai's |
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Head-turning aerodynamic design |
Less practical than the EV6 |
| Impressive efficiency and range |
Rear headroom is compromised |
| Generously equipped as standard |
Firm ride on larger wheels |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.
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