

2024.10.04 Kia
Electric vehicles (EVs) come with a fresh design language, thanks to their unique structure. Without the constraints of a traditional combustion engine, designers have more freedom to innovate. Yet, as architect Louis H. Sullivan famously said, "form follows function," and today's EV designs seem to embrace a pragmatic approach focused on efficiency.
But Kia's electric lineup takes it a step further, blending aerodynamic efficiency with head-turning style. The EV6 is a perfect example of this balance. It’s the most performance-driven and stylish model in Kia’s portfolio, signaling the brand’s push into the EV market. It’s not just a car—it’s an exciting new take on the crossover, packing both power and personality.
The recently updated EV6 amps up the design game, and the first thing that grabs your attention is the bold new headlamp setup. With Kia's new "Star Map Signature Lighting" design, the front end gets a dramatic makeover. The clean, sharp lines showcase the creativity of Kia’s design team, using simplicity to create a striking, aggressive look.
Pulling off such a daring front-end design isn’t easy. Every piece has to work in harmony, with every detail meticulously refined. And Kia didn’t stop with the headlamps. The EV6’s hood seamlessly flows into the front bumper, while the GT-Line sports extra details like 3D-patterned bumpers that give it an even lower, wider stance.
Car enthusiasts often talk about a car’s “stance”—how solid and confident it looks on the road. The new EV6 has that in spades, with a lower, wider look that’s sleek and sporty but still feels grounded and stable.
From the side, you can see that the EV6 is both compact and spacious. Measuring 4,695mm in length, 1,880mm in width, and 1,550mm in height, it’s shorter than the full-size Kia K8 by 355mm, but it shares the same width and stands taller by 70mm. Plus, its 2,900mm wheelbase is even longer than the K8’s. So, while it may look sleek, this EV packs a lot of presence. The sharp character lines running across the roof and body accentuate its dynamic and bold image.
The new EV6 also gets upgrades on the sides and rear, with sleeker side sills and updated wheels for a fresh, modern vibe. Kia went with a polygonal, symmetrical structure for the wheels, giving them a mechanical, futuristic feel. This design isn’t just for show—it also helps with aerodynamics, reducing drag and improving efficiency. By flattening the wheel's edges and minimizing openings, Kia has reduced air resistance, helping the EV6 glide more smoothly through the wind.
The rear design also plays into the car’s aerodynamic profile. The 3D sculpted diagonal tail lamps, like rear spoilers, are designed to manage airflow, pressing the car down for added stability at higher speeds. The new tail lamps stick with the familiar shape of the original EV6 but now include the "Star Map" lighting pattern to match Kia's current family look.
How do you sum up the exterior of the new EV6 in one word? It’s all about innovation. Kia’s design philosophy, "Opposites United," shines through in the themes of "Power to Progress" and "Modern Contrast." Every detail has been carefully crafted to deliver a sharper, more energetic image. Kia calls it "The Energetic Vehicle," and that description fits perfectly.
Step inside the new EV6, and it’s clear the focus is on the driver. Much like sporty models from the combustion engine days, the cabin is designed to enhance the driving experience. But this being an EV, Kia has taken it to the next level with premium materials and a futuristic design.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the updated steering wheel and AVN (Audio, Video, Navigation) display. The steering wheel now features a sleek double D-cut design, while the AVN display is mounted above the dash in an exposed design, giving the cabin a cleaner, more streamlined look.
The interior offers a real sense of openness and sophistication, with a touch of high-tech flair that fits the EV’s futuristic vibe. The center console is a highlight, housing the power button, a dial-type shifter, heated and ventilated seat controls, and wireless smartphone charging. While many EVs opt for minimalist consoles to maximize space, the EV6 sticks with a sporty, driver-focused setup that feels right at home in this dynamic model.
The EV6 interior is all about contrast. In the photos, you’ll see a striking balance of black and white, with silver metallic accents adding a calming, refined feel.
This interplay of materials continues throughout the cabin. The black Alcantara door trim, silver speaker covers from the Meridian sound system, metallic door catches, and white plastic linings around the cabin all work together to create a cohesive, high-end interior.
Then there’s the mood lighting. Subtle lights under the center console and air vents give the cabin a neon-like glow, with blue hues adding a cool, calming atmosphere that pairs perfectly with the metallic finishes.
Every material tells a story, and the EV6’s dashboard is no exception. The sporty *geonic material used on the dashboard delivers a satisfying tactile and visual experience. The GT-Line version takes it up a notch with intricate patterns, emphasizing its high-performance credentials.
*Geonic: A synthetic material layered with polyurethane, offering versatile design options in texture, color, and graphics.
The EV6 isn’t just another electric vehicle—it’s a design statement that pushes the boundaries of what EVs can be. It was no surprise when the EV6 won “Best of the Best” at the 2022 Red Dot Design Awards, receiving global recognition for its forward-thinking design. And with this refreshed model, Kia has somehow managed to improve on an already standout vehicle.
As the automotive world rapidly shifts toward electric vehicles, many brands are throwing their hats into the ring. But few EVs truly excite or inspire. Many simply rehash traditional designs with little innovation. That’s where the new EV6 stands out. It’s a dynamic, bold EV that brings a fresh, futuristic look to the table, blending style with substance. Just like when you throw on a killer outfit and feel like you’re ready to take on the world, the new EV6 brings that same energy every time you hit the road.
Photography by Jinho Choi