The 2023 Kia EV6 lineup is out and looks slightly different from what was available with the 2022 model year. The cheapest Light trim has been removed and replaced by Wind, and the high-performance GT AWD is at the top end of the Kia EV lineup. This has changed the price dynamics for potential buyers, including the expected cost of a fully loaded model. So, how much does a 2023 Kia EV6 with all optional bells and whistles cost?

2023 Kia EV6 overview

Still in its first generation, the 2023 Kia EV6 looks the same as its 2022 variant. However, Kia has added a faster, more powerful GT trim to the top of the lineup. The Wind RWD, Wind e-AWD, GT-Line RWD, and GT-Line e-AWD trims buyers got with the 2022 model year are still available.

According to Kia, the base Wind RWD trim can be had for a $48,500 starting price. Getting the Wind e-AWD will cost you an extra $3,900. As for the GT-Line RWD and GT-Line e-AWD, the MSRPs are $52,700 and $57,400, respectively, while the all-new GT-trim starts at $61,400.

All five trims get the same 77.4 kWh battery setup. That said, variations to the motors lead to different performance specs.

The Wind RWD and GT-Line RWD options share a single-motor setup offering 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Being the least fuel-hungry setup, it has an EPA-estimated 310-mile range. Wind eAWD and GT-Line eAWD options have dual motors producing 320 hp alongside 446 lb-ft of torque. Naturally, this power boost goes through battery life much faster, resulting in 282 miles of range.

The GT AWD trim has a 576 hp capable dual-motor system with an EPA-estimated 206-mile range on a single charge. It’s also capable of 545 lb-ft of torque.

How much does a fully loaded 2023 Kia EV6 cost?

As the top trim for the electric SUV, the Kia EV6 GT already has plenty of standard features for its $61,400 starting price. Examples include GT styling, heated front bucket seats, an electronically controlled suspension, an electronic rear slip differential, 21-inch wheels, and even high-performance brakes.

However, other possible inclusions may drive up the cost of the EV even further. For instance, there are three paid exterior color options, i.e., Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, and Steel Matte Grey. The first two cost $495, while the Steel Matte Grey will add $695 to the total cost of the vehicle.

Other possible extras include a cargo cover, carpeted floor mats, a cargo net, an interior light kit, mudguards, a cargo tray, a cargo mat, illuminated door scuff plates, a tow hitch, and wheel locks. These add a $1,945 surcharge.

Ultimately, a fully loaded 2023 Kia EV6 with the Steel Matte Grey color will cost you around $65,335, including a $1,295 delivery fee.

Which 2023 Kia EV6 trim should you buy?

Car and Driver judges the 2023 Kia EV6 Wind AWD model as the best option, and it’s easy to see why. Without spending too much, you get the perks of an AWD system, including extra traction and power. Performance-wise, it’s identical to the GT-Line AWD.

The biggest differences between the Wind AWD and GT-Line AWD trims are the sunroof and 20-inch wheels. This may not be worth the $5,000 price bump for most people.

There’s certainly a case for buying the GT AWD trim, given its impressive performance specs and estimated 3.5-second 0-60 mph acceleration. However, the 4.6-second time posted by the other AWD trims isn’t slow either.

Additionally, compared to the 2023 model year, a 2022 fully loaded Kia EV6 was significantly cheaper, given it was a GT-Line AWD model.