Stranded in Scorching Heat: 1,600-Mile Journey in a 2025 Kia EV6 Disrupted by a Concealed Boulder Damaging the Coolant System in a National Park
The 2025 Kia EV6, a real-deal grand tourer in crossover form, has been making waves in the automotive industry. This electric vehicle (EV) is available in multiple trim levels, each offering unique features and performance capabilities.
Trim Levels and Performance
The 2025 Kia EV6 is offered in six trim levels: Light (base RWD), Light Long Range RWD, AWD versions, Premium, GT-Line AWD, and a high-performance GT trim. The Light trim features a single rear electric motor with about 215 hp, while AWD versions have dual motors producing around 379 hp, and the GT delivers up to 641 hp with torque of 568 lb-ft [1][3][2].
Range and Charging
Regarding range, the EV6 varies by trim and battery size:
- The Light trim with a 76.1-kWh battery offers an EPA-estimated 230 miles of range.
- The Light Long Range RWD and AWD trims use a larger 99.8-kWh battery providing up to 304 miles (Light Long Range RWD).
- The GT trim with an 84-kWh battery provides around 303 miles of range [3][5][2].
The EV6 supports fast charging with a peak DC fast-charge rate up to 240 kW (GT trim), allowing rapid charging. Specifically:
- The EV6 can fast-charge from 10% to 90% in about 57 minutes using a high-power DC fast charger.
- Using an 800V charger, the EV6 can add approximately 100 miles of range in about 13 minutes.
- Charging speeds may be limited to around 84 kW on 400V chargers.
- Battery preconditioning helps optimize charging efficiency [2][3].
Real-World Testimonials
Several users have shared their experiences with the 2025 Kia EV6. One user purchased the EV6 earlier than planned due to concerns about tariffs and tax credits. Another user reported that the EV6 performed well during a 1,600-mile road trip through Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks in a 2025 Kia EV6 Wind RWD [4].
The charging landscape has improved significantly, making long road trips easier for EV owners. Kia's North American Charging Standard (NACS) port grants EV6 owners access to over 18,000 Tesla Superchargers nationwide.
Safety and Assistance
Kia's Highway Driving Assist (HDA2) was invaluable during traffic, particularly during a two-hour jam on I-5. In an unfortunate incident, one user had an accident during the return trip from Yosemite National Park, driving into a large boulder hidden by the driver's side A-pillar. However, the user had to arrange for roadside assistance and a rental car to finish the trip [4].
About the Author
Noah Washington, an automotive journalist based in Atlanta, Georgia, with 15 years of experience in the automotive industry, has covered this article. You can reach Noah on X and LinkedIn for more automotive coverage.
[1] Automotive News [2] Electric Vehicle News and Reviews [3] Kia USA [4] Reddit (r/KiaEV6) [5] Kia Motors Corporation
The 2025 Kia EV6's advanced features and performance capabilities cater to a modern lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for tech-savvy individuals who value efficient travel. During a road trip, the EV6's impressive range and swift charging capabilities enable users to explore various destinations, showcasing its suitability for adventurous sports enthusiasts.
