Buying an EV6 Wind AWD on Saturday... What should I know?

Electric Models Forum Kia EV6
1

I’ve decided on a new 2024 EV6 Wind AWD and plan to buy it this Saturday.

What are some things I should be aware of or prepare for? Any tips, advice, or recommendations?

I live in New York and already have good floor mats sorted. I’m also thinking about getting mud flaps or guards.

I currently drive a Kona EV, so I’m not new to EVs, but I’d love to hear anything specific to the EV6.

2

If possible, get the tech package. It’s worth the extra cost.

3

Jesse said:
If possible, get the tech package. It’s worth the extra cost.

I made sure the tech package was included. Definitely a good deal.

4

Jesse said:
If possible, get the tech package. It’s worth the extra cost.

Absolutely, the tech package is great.

You might also want to get winter tires and rims, depending on how much snow and ice you deal with.

Look up ‘ICCU’ on this forum to learn about the one big issue this car has.

5

@Pip
Coming from a Hyundai EV, I already know how annoying that issue can be.

I’ll probably get snow tires. I wasn’t thinking about rims, but maybe getting cheap steel ones would help save wear on the main tires.

6

Jesse said:
If possible, get the tech package. It’s worth the extra cost.

What does the tech package include compared to the GT model?

7

Spence said:

Jesse said:
If possible, get the tech package. It’s worth the extra cost.

What does the tech package include compared to the GT model?

The tech package adds features like a 360° camera, blind-spot cameras, rear emergency braking, and other safety features.

The GT and GT-Line trims already have everything included in the tech package for the Wind. The differences between the trims are:

  • Ambient lighting, which isn’t available on Wind even with the tech package.
  • Larger and possibly better wheels on the GT-Line AWD.
  • Piano black interior pieces on the GT-Line (I’m not a fan).
  • Body-colored exterior trim on the GT-Line instead of the piano black trim on the Wind.

The Wind AWD has slightly better range than the GT-Line AWD.

The GT has everything the GT-Line offers plus 570HP (compared to 320HP), better brakes, seats, and more—but it sacrifices range.

8

@Jesse
Thanks for breaking it down. I just signed a lease for the 2024 GT model. Hoping it’s a great car.

9

Always aim to be first at red lights. You don’t want to get stuck behind slow drivers.

10

Try to get Kia Connect added to your deal. I leased an EV6 GT-Line for four years, and I love it. It’s been reliable and starts up with no issues.

A few tips:

  • Clean your wipers regularly to avoid ice buildup.
  • Be careful with sport mode—it’s super fast with 446 torque.

Overall, it’s a car I really enjoy.

11

@Tobin
Since I’m leasing, I think it’s included for three years. If not, I’ll ask for it. I might try asking for snow tires instead though. Let’s see how it goes.

12

Denali said:
@Tobin
Since I’m leasing, I think it’s included for three years. If not, I’ll ask for it. I might try asking for snow tires instead though. Let’s see how it goes.

Usually, only the first year is free. After that, you’ll need to pay for extra app features.

13

Make sure to test drive the RWD version before deciding. I was surprised by how well it performed and realised AWD wasn’t as important for me as I thought.

14

Penn said:
Make sure to test drive the RWD version before deciding. I was surprised by how well it performed and realised AWD wasn’t as important for me as I thought.

AWD adds weight and reduces range slightly. I got the GT-Line RWD, and it’s been perfect for my needs.

15

Penn said:
Make sure to test drive the RWD version before deciding. I was surprised by how well it performed and realised AWD wasn’t as important for me as I thought.

RWD is fun for drifting in winter (except for the GT drift mode). Plus, it’s a bit more efficient in terms of energy use.

16

Penn said:
Make sure to test drive the RWD version before deciding. I was surprised by how well it performed and realised AWD wasn’t as important for me as I thought.

I live in Buffalo and often drive through heavy snow. AWD feels necessary for me.

17

Penn said:
Make sure to test drive the RWD version before deciding. I was surprised by how well it performed and realised AWD wasn’t as important for me as I thought.

You don’t always need AWD, but when roads are wet or icy, it’s amazing. It handles like a champ.

18

I got some aftermarket mud flaps from eBay that work better than the OEM ones to stop mud streaks on the back of the car.

A few tips:

  • Use level 1 or 0 regen braking on highways for better efficiency.
  • Hold down the left paddle to come to a complete stop. It works like Auto Hold but also maximises battery regeneration.
  • Eco mode turns off power to the front wheels, improving efficiency (though some conditions might make them engage).

If you want to power your house at night or during emergencies, consider getting a power inlet installed near your electrical box.

Just a reminder: battery preconditioning only works when using the built-in navigation system, and it’s mainly helpful in colder weather.