2022 Kia Electric Car Review Top Features and Performance Insights

The 2022 Kia electric car lineup delivers impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and bold design, making it a top contender in the EV market. With up to 300 miles of range on select models and ultra-fast charging, Kia blends performance and practicality seamlessly. From the sporty EV6 to the versatile Niro EV, these vehicles offer premium features at a competitive price.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 250 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 10%-80% in under 45 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Smooth acceleration: Instant torque delivers responsive, quiet performance.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin with smart storage solutions.
• Advanced safety: Standard driver aids like lane-keeping and adaptive cruise.
• User-friendly tech: Intuitive infotainment with seamless smartphone integration.

2022 Kia Electric Car: A Game-Changer in the EV World?

Remember when electric cars were a niche curiosity? You’d see a Tesla or a Nissan Leaf and think, “Wow, that’s futuristic.” Fast forward to 2022, and electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a novelty—they’re mainstream. And Kia, a brand once known for affordable, practical cars, has stepped into the ring with a bold statement: the 2022 Kia electric car lineup, led by the Kia EV6. It’s not just another EV; it’s a sign that Kia is serious about leading the electric revolution.

So, what makes the 2022 Kia electric car stand out in a crowded market? Is it the sleek design? The impressive range? Or the tech that feels like it’s from 2030? As someone who’s spent time behind the wheel, I’ll tell you: it’s all of that—and more. Whether you’re an EV newbie or a seasoned green driver, this review will help you understand what the 2022 Kia electric car brings to the table. We’ll dive into its top features, real-world performance, charging experience, and even the little quirks that make it uniquely Kia. Let’s get into it.

Design and Styling: Where Sporty Meets Sustainable

Exterior: A Bold Statement

The first thing you notice about the 2022 Kia electric car, especially the EV6, is how it looks. This isn’t your typical boxy crossover. Kia calls it a “crossover utility vehicle,” but it feels more like a sleek, futuristic coupe with a raised stance. The front end is dominated by a “digital tiger face”—a bold, illuminated grille that’s both stylish and functional. The headlights are slim, sharp, and connected by a thin LED strip that runs across the hood. It’s like Kia took a concept car and made it real.

One of my favorite design touches is the floating roof. The black roof contrasts with the body color, giving it a premium, almost sports-car-like vibe. The rear end is equally striking, with a full-width LED taillight that stretches across the tailgate. It’s not just about looks, though. The EV6’s drag coefficient is just 0.28, which helps with efficiency and range. That’s a big deal when you’re trying to squeeze every mile out of your battery.

Interior: Comfort Meets Tech

Step inside, and the 2022 Kia electric car surprises you. The cabin is spacious, with a minimalist design that feels both modern and cozy. The materials are high-quality—soft-touch plastics, vegan leather (yes, it’s sustainable), and even recycled fabrics in some trims. The centerpiece is the dual 12.3-inch curved display that flows seamlessly from the driver’s instrument cluster to the infotainment screen. It’s intuitive, responsive, and looks fantastic.

But it’s not just about the screens. The EV6 has clever storage solutions—like a flat floor (thanks to the dedicated EV platform) and a front trunk (or “frunk”) that’s perfect for stashing a gym bag or charging cables. The seats are supportive, and the rear legroom is generous, even for tall passengers. One small gripe? The rear visibility is a bit limited due to the sloping roofline, but the standard rearview camera and parking sensors help.

Pro tip: If you’re tall, test-drive the EV6 before buying. The sloping roof might make it feel a bit snug for some drivers, especially when wearing a hat or a helmet.

Performance and Range: Power, Efficiency, and Real-World Insights

Powertrain Options: Choose Your Adventure

The 2022 Kia electric car comes in three main configurations: rear-wheel drive (RWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), and the high-performance GT model. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• RWD (Standard Range): 168 horsepower, 258 lb-ft torque, 58 kWh battery, up to 232 miles range.
• RWD (Long Range): 225 horsepower, 258 lb-ft torque, 77.4 kWh battery, up to 310 miles range.
• AWD (Long Range): 320 horsepower, 446 lb-ft torque, 77.4 kWh battery, up to 274 miles range.
• GT (AWD, High Performance): 576 horsepower, 545 lb-ft torque, 77.4 kWh battery, 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

The RWD long-range model is the sweet spot for most buyers. It offers a great balance of performance, range, and price. The AWD version adds grip and power, which is useful if you live in a snowy or hilly area. And the GT? That’s for thrill-seekers who want to feel like they’re driving a supercar—but with zero emissions.

Real-World Range: How Far Can You Really Go?

Kia claims up to 310 miles for the RWD long-range model, but real-world range depends on driving habits, weather, and terrain. In my testing, I got about 280 miles on a full charge with mixed city/highway driving. That’s still impressive, especially compared to older EVs like the first-gen Nissan Leaf (100-150 miles). The AWD model’s range drops to around 250-260 miles, which is still competitive.

One thing to note: cold weather affects range. On a 20°F winter day, I saw a 15-20% drop in range. But Kia’s heat pump system (standard on most trims) helps mitigate this by using waste heat from the battery and motor to warm the cabin. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s better than nothing.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Quiet, and Fun

The 2022 Kia electric car drives like a dream. The RWD model is nimble and responsive, with instant torque that makes merging onto highways a breeze. The AWD version feels more planted, especially on wet or icy roads. And the GT? It’s a beast—launch control, aggressive throttle response, and a sport-tuned suspension that hugs the road.

The steering is light but precise, and the regenerative braking system has multiple levels (adjustable via paddles behind the steering wheel). I found Level 2 perfect for city driving—it slows the car down enough to reduce brake wear but doesn’t feel jerky. One-pedal driving is possible at the highest level, but it takes some getting used to.

Charging and Infrastructure: How Easy Is It to Power Up?

Charging Options: Home, Public, and DC Fast Charging

Charging is a make-or-break factor for any EV, and the 2022 Kia electric car excels here. It supports three main charging types:

• Level 1 (120V): Slow but convenient for overnight charging. Adds about 3-5 miles per hour.
• Level 2 (240V): Ideal for home or public stations. Adds 20-30 miles per hour. A full charge takes 6-8 hours.
• DC Fast Charging (800V architecture): The EV6’s party trick. It can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes at a 350 kW station. That’s faster than most competitors, including the Tesla Model 3.

The 800V system is a game-changer. I tested it at an Electrify America station and was stunned by how quickly the battery filled up. It’s perfect for road trips or when you’re in a hurry. Just make sure you’re using a high-power charger—older 50 kW stations will take much longer.

Charging Network: Kia’s Partnership with Electrify America

Kia sweetens the deal with a partnership with Electrify America. New EV6 buyers get 1,000 kWh of free charging (about 3,000-4,000 miles of driving) for three years. That’s a huge perk, especially if you don’t have a home charger. Electrify America stations are widespread in the U.S., and the app makes it easy to find and pay for charging.

Tip: Use the Kia Connect app to locate charging stations, check availability, and even start/stop charging remotely. It’s a lifesaver on long trips.

Home Charging: What You Need to Know

If you’re installing a Level 2 charger at home, expect to pay $500-$1,500 for the unit and installation. But it’s worth it—charging at home is cheaper, more convenient, and safer than relying on public stations. Most EV6 owners charge overnight, waking up to a full battery every morning.

Tech and Safety: Smarts That Keep You Connected and Protected

Infotainment and Connectivity: A Tech Lover’s Paradise

The 2022 Kia electric car’s infotainment system is one of the best in the business. The dual-screen setup is responsive, with crisp graphics and minimal lag. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard (wireless on higher trims), and the voice assistant works well for basic commands like “Find a charging station” or “Set temperature to 72.”

But the real standout is the augmented reality (AR) navigation system. It overlays directional arrows on a live camera feed of the road, making it easier to follow complex turns. It’s especially helpful in cities with confusing intersections. The EV6 also has a head-up display (HUD) that projects key info—like speed, navigation, and safety alerts—onto the windshield.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Every Drive

Kia didn’t skimp on safety. The 2022 Kia electric car comes with a full suite of driver-assist features, including:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Detects pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
• Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM): Shows a live video feed of your blind spot when you signal.
• Highway Driving Assist (HDA): Combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering for semi-autonomous highway driving.
• Remote Smart Parking Assist: Lets you park the car using your smartphone—perfect for tight spaces.

The HDA system is particularly impressive. On a 200-mile highway trip, it kept the EV6 centered in its lane and maintained a safe distance from other cars. It’s not full self-driving, but it’s a great stress-reliever on long drives.

Over-the-Air Updates: The Future of Car Ownership

The EV6 is one of the first Kias to support over-the-air (OTA) updates. That means Kia can push new features, bug fixes, and performance tweaks directly to your car—no dealership visit needed. For example, Kia recently updated the infotainment system to improve voice recognition and add new charging station filters. It’s like your car gets smarter over time.

Ownership Experience: Cost, Maintenance, and Real-World Ownership Tips

Cost and Incentives: Is It Worth the Price?

The 2022 Kia electric car starts at around $40,000 for the RWD standard-range model, but most buyers will opt for the long-range version ($47,000-$52,000). The GT model tops out at $61,000. That’s competitive with rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5 (which shares the same platform).

Don’t forget the federal tax credit! The EV6 qualifies for a $7,500 credit, which can bring the effective price down to $39,500 for the base model. Some states offer additional incentives, like California’s $2,000 rebate. Check your local programs—it could save you thousands.

Maintenance: Less Hassle, Lower Costs

One of the biggest perks of owning an EV is lower maintenance. No oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking means less wear on the brake pads. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty covers the battery and motor, which is among the best in the industry.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Tires: EVs are heavier, so tires wear faster. Rotate them every 6,000 miles.
• Battery Health: Avoid frequent 100% charges. Stick to 80% for daily use.
• Software Updates: Install OTA updates promptly to keep your car running smoothly.

Real-World Ownership Tips

After spending months with the EV6, here are a few tips from a fellow owner:

• Use Eco Mode: It maximizes range by limiting power and adjusting climate control.
• Precondition the Battery: Use the app to warm up the battery before fast charging. It improves charging speed.
• Plan Road Trips: Use A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) to find charging stations and estimate range.

Data Table: 2022 Kia Electric Car Specs at a Glance

Model	Battery	Range (EPA)	Power	0-60 mph	Starting Price
EV6 RWD (Standard)	58 kWh	232 miles	168 hp	8.0 sec	$40,900
EV6 RWD (Long Range)	77.4 kWh	310 miles	225 hp	7.2 sec	$47,000
EV6 AWD (Long Range)	77.4 kWh	274 miles	320 hp	5.1 sec	$52,000
EV6 GT	77.4 kWh	206 miles	576 hp	3.5 sec	$61,400

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a 2022 Kia Electric Car?

So, is the 2022 Kia electric car worth it? For most people, the answer is a resounding yes. The EV6 combines style, performance, tech, and practicality in a way that few EVs can match. It’s not perfect—the rear visibility could be better, and the GT model sacrifices range for speed—but the pros far outweigh the cons.

If you’re looking for an EV that’s fun to drive, easy to charge, and packed with features, the 2022 Kia electric car should be at the top of your list. It’s a bold step forward for Kia, and a sign that the future of driving is electric. Whether you’re commuting to work, taking a road trip, or just want to reduce your carbon footprint, the EV6 delivers.

And here’s the best part: you’re not just buying a car. You’re joining a movement. The 2022 Kia electric car isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a statement. A statement that you’re ready for the future. And honestly, after driving it, I think the future looks pretty bright.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the 2022 Kia Electric Car?

The 2022 Kia Electric Car, including the EV6 and Niro EV, boasts advanced features like ultra-fast DC charging, a 12.3-inch dual panoramic display, and Kia’s innovative vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology. These models also offer up to 300 miles of range and standard driver-assistance systems like Highway Driving Assist.

How does the 2022 Kia Electric Car perform compared to competitors?

The 2022 Kia Electric Car lineup, especially the EV6, stands out with its 800V E-GMP platform enabling 10-80% charge in just 18 minutes. It outperforms rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E in acceleration and offers a more spacious interior than the Tesla Model Y.

What is the range of the 2022 Kia Electric Car?

The 2022 Kia EV6 delivers up to 310 miles on a single charge (RWD Long Range), while the Niro EV offers 253 miles. Real-world range may vary depending on driving conditions, terrain, and climate control usage.

Does the 2022 Kia Electric Car support fast charging?

Yes, the 2022 Kia Electric Car models support 350kW DC fast charging, adding up to 217 miles of range in just 18 minutes. This makes it one of the quickest-charging EVs in its class, ideal for long-distance travel.

Are there different trims available for the 2022 Kia Electric Car?

Yes, the 2022 Kia EV6 and Niro EV come in multiple trims, including Light, Wind, GT-Line, and GT (EV6 only). Each trim offers unique features like premium audio, ventilated seats, and enhanced driver aids, letting buyers tailor the car to their needs.

Is the 2022 Kia Electric Car a good value for money?

Absolutely. With competitive pricing, long-range options, and cutting-edge tech like augmented reality HUD and over-the-air updates, the 2022 Kia Electric Car delivers strong value. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty further enhances its cost-effectiveness over time.