Kia's EV6 GT came out on top in a German test of high-performance EVs, beating rivals that included Tesla's Model Y Performance and the BYD Sealion 7 AWD Excellence.
Here's what to know
Electrek reported that Auto Motor und Sport compared five high-performance EVs across seven areas: body, safety, comfort and convenience, powertrain, driving performance, environmental friendliness, and running costs.
With 585 points, the EV6 GT posted the highest score in the comparison.
The battle for the top spot was close, though. The Model Y Performance finished second with 576 points, while the Zeekr 7GT landed in third place with 569 points, per Electrek.
The Polestar 4 Coupe Dual Motor scored 531 points, and the BYD Sealion 7 AWD Excellence placed fifth with 508 points.
Kia's entry was the top scorer in safety, powertrain, and driving performance, Electrek noted.
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Its safety result was driven by strong scores for braking and high-speed stability. It also put up 96 points in driving performance, 20 more than the Model Y Performance's 76 points.
More background
Both the Kia and Tesla were rated at 3.5 seconds from 0 to 62 mph (100 kilometers per hour), according to Electrek.
A new 84-kilowatt-hour battery gives the EV6 GT a range of up to 279 miles, and its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup is rated at up to 650 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque.
In Germany, the EV6 GT starts at €69,990 ($77,745), Electrek reported. By comparison, the Model Y Performance starts at €63,970 ($71,058) and offers a range of up to 360 miles. Even so, Auto Motor und Sport's scoring still favored the Kia.
What's being done?
Kia has continued refining the EV6 GT with features for buyers who want more than straight-line speed.
Among them is Virtual Gear Shift, adapted from the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, which recreates the feel and sound of a six-speed transmission operated by paddles, per Electrek.
Inside, Kia revised the cabin with its infotainment system. It combines dual 12.3-inch screens for navigation and driver information in a curved panoramic arrangement.
Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the EV6 GT can recharge from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes, Electrek noted.
While the model is on sale in Germany, Kia has said it is discontinuing the EV6 GT in the United States "until further notice."
Auto Motor und Sport said the EV6 GT earned first place for its "outstanding driving performance."
Where can I learn more?
Kia's strong showing comes as automakers roll out new EVs.
• Nissan is taking aim at Tesla with the 2026 Leaf crossover and fresh EV ambitions.
• Kia is preparing the EV3 electric SUV with standout features at a lower price.
• Kia also unveiled the EV4 electric sedan as another affordable addition.
• At the New York auto show, new EVs from major brands highlighted the market's fast pace.
• In the U.K., Kia's sales growth continued as the compact EV2 drew buzz.
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