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For reliability, Kia has come a long way over the past few decades. It used to be one of the least dependable car brands, but now it’s one of the best. As Kia goes full-force into the EV era, this reliability for the South Korean automaker has positively impacted its first electric vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, the most reliable Kia car is an electric crossover SUV: the 2023 Kia EV6. It’s also the faster Kia ever.

2023 Kia EV6 electric SUV is the most reliable Kia car, according to Consumer Reports

Front angle view of silver 2023 Kia EV6 electric SUV, most reliable and fastest Kia car, says Consumer Reports
2023 Kia EV6 | Kia

The 2023 Kia EV6 getting named the most reliable Kia car by Consumer Reports is somewhat surprising. The fast electric SUV is a relatively new model — debuting for the 2022 model year. Its EV technology is relatively new, too — especially compared to Kia’s gas-powered cars. Often, new models and technologies have reliability issues as automakers work out the kinks.

However, according to evaluations from Consumer Reports, the EV6 tops all other Kia models for reliability. Following the electric SUV, the next-most reliable Kia vehicles are the Carnival minivan and the K5 midsize sedan. 

EV6 had the fewest problems in CR’s Auto Reliability Survey

The status as the most reliable Kia car for the 2023 Kia EV6 is based on the annual Auto Reliability Survey from Consumer Reports. CR collected owner surveys for over 300,000 vehicles, including all of the models in the Kia lineup. Owners identified various problem areas, such as noises, electric systems, engines, leaks, paint, and brakes. 

The EV6 had fewer and less severe issues in the problem areas than all other Kia models. As a result, Consumer Reports named it the most reliable Kia car. 

EV6 earned multiple awards, including ‘World Car of the Year’

Dashboard in 2023 Kia EV6 electric crossover SUV, most reliable and fastest Kia car, says Consumer Reports
2023 Kia EV6 | Kia

In its short existence, the Kia EV6 has impressed both automotive consumers and critics alike. The fast electric SUV earned multiple awards, such as the coveted “World Car of the Year” honor. Other awards include the “North American Utility Vehicle of the Year,” Car and Driver “10Best Trucks and SUVs,” U.S. News “Best Electric Vehicle, “European Car of the Year,” Autocar “Best Electric Car,” and “Best of the Best” Red Dot Design Award. 

These awards are noteworthy achievements, especially considering the buzzy electric crossover SUV competition that the EV6 faces. Along with the mechanically similar Hyundai IONIQ 5, this includes the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, Subaru Solterra, Toyota bZ4X, Nissan Ariya, and Chevy Bolt EUV.

EV6: Most powerful and fastest Kia ever

In addition to its reliability, the 2023 EV6 has some standout elements. It features a futuristic exterior design that’s unlike any other car available. The cabin has a unique look as well — and provides plenty of passenger space. 

Performance for the electric SUV is excellent too. The best-performing model in the lineup is the new GT trim, which is the most powerful and fastest Kia ever built. Its electric motors generate 576 horsepower — with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.2 seconds. 

Also, compared to most EVs, the Kia EV6 is fast charging. It can go from a 10% to an 80% charge in less than 18 minutes. And on a full charge, it has an estimated driving range of up to 310 miles. However, opting for the high-performance GT variant drops that to 206 miles.

Furthermore, the EV6 is technologically-sophisticated. Tech features include a 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, voice commands, over-the-air updates, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and the 14-speaker Meridian sound system. Plus, it offers many safety-enhancing driving assistance technologies, such as a surround-view monitor, automatic emergency braking, and remote parking assist. 

Along with being a very fast electric SUV — the 2023 Kia EV6 provides high-level reliability. This is evidenced by it being named the most reliable Kia car by Consumer Reports.

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