The Kia EV6 and Volkswagen ID.4 provide a blend of utility, technology, and zero-emissions driving. While they share some similarities, there are also key differences that may sway buyers one way or the other.
The EV6 arrived on to the market in 2021 as Kia's first dedicated electric vehicle built on the company's E-GMP platform, which it shares with Hyundai. It offers a long driving range, ultra-fast 800V charging capability, and even a high-performance GT model. The ID.4, launched the same year, is Volkswagen's first fully electric SUV and rides on the VW Group's MEB platform, which also underpins several EVs across its brands, including the Skoda Enyaq.
Kia EV6 vs Volkswagen ID.4
Practicality
The Kia EV6 excels at practicality thanks to its dedicated EV platform providing generous interior space. It offers masses of headroom and legroom for rear passengers, with a totally flat floor boosting foot space even for a middle occupant. The 490-litre boot is a good size and the rear seats split 60/40 for added flexibility. There's also some underfloor storage in the boot for charging cables.
While not quite as roomy as boxy SUV alternatives such as the ID.4, the EV6 still trumps traditional saloons and hatchbacks for interior packaging. You can fit a large pushchair or other bulky items with ease. Towing capacity is a decent 1,600kg as well.
The Volkswagen ID.4 also impresses with its spacious interior within a relatively compact footprint. Its 543-litre boot is larger than the EV6's, easily accommodating a large double buggy and dog thanks to its clever boot separator. Rear legroom is limo-like and the flat floor aids comfort for three across the back seat.
However, the ID.4's rear seats don't fold fully flat, the variable boot floor is optional, and there's no front trunk storage. Even so, it provides ample family practicality with plenty of storage cubbies.
Both cars deliver on the inherent packaging advantages of their dedicated EV architectures. The ID.4 just about has the edge for outright luggage space, but the EV6 is still big enough to meet the needs of most families, so long as there's no need to carry a dog cage in the boot.
Driving Impressions
The EV6 delivers a compelling driving experience across its range. Even the base rear-wheel-drive model with 226bhp provides punchy real-world performance, while AWD variants offer serious straight-line pace up to the 577bhp GT's 3.5 second 0-62mph sprint.
The steering lacks ultimate engagement and feedback expected of a premium performance car, but it's well weighted. The ride is also generally comfortable and refined, making the EV6 an excellent cruiser.
In contrast, the ID.4 takes a more relaxed, comfort-oriented approach befitting its family SUV positioning. It rides smoothly and is hushed at speed, with light but precise steering. Performance from the 201bhp rear motor is adequate rather than exhilarating.
While not as overtly sporty as the EV6 GT, the ID.4 has surprisingly agile handling if you want to press on. Just don't expect the same level of engagement or straight-line thrills as Kia's flagship electric performance model.
The EV6 provides a slightly more dynamic driving experience overall, especially in GT guise. But the ID.4 counters with a bit more boot space. It's a close contest and very much dependent on priorities.
Technology and Equipment
Both cars come well-equipped with the latest tech amenities you'd expect in a modern premium EV. Dual digital displays, touchscreen infotainment systems, advanced driver aids, and conveniences like heated seats/steering wheels feature across the ranges.
The Kia has a slight edge with its more user-friendly controls and menus compared to the ID.4's fiddly touchscreen climate system. In fact, the ID.4's infotainment and heating controls are perhaps its weakest areas because they can be unnecessarily fiddly to use.
Higher EV6 trims bring more advanced tech like augmented reality head-up displays, vehicle-to-load charging, and a more premium Meridian audio system.
Ultimately, both deliver a full tech experience appropriate for their price points. The Kia just about edges it for usability and some more cutting-edge features, but the VW is hardly a disaster in this area.
Running Costs
As pure electric vehicles, both the EV6 and ID.4 provide considerable running cost savings versus comparable petrol or diesel models. Exact figures will vary, but a full charge from a home wallbox should cost from well under £30 to as little as £11, depending on what energy tariff you have.
The EV6's 800V architecture enables ultra-rapid charging for a quick 18-minute 10-80% top-up using 350kW public chargers. The ID.4 tops out at a still-respectable 125kW for 100-mile boosts in around 20 minutes.
Where the Volkswagen has an advantage is its lower purchase price undercutting the Kia, particularly on the used market. The EV6 edges ahead for real-world driving range in most conditions despite its higher performance.
And the EV6 offers the blistering GT performance model that the ID.4 can't match. Insurance costs should be similar for both cars but it's always worth checking.
It's a close-run thing, and you might well need to weigh up the ID.4's lower upfront costs against Kia's superior seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty versus VW's three-year, 60,000-mile deal.
Verdict
Both the Kia EV6 and Volkswagen ID.4 are accomplished EVs, and represent particularly good value as used cars. However, unless you need the ID.4's extra boot space (including its more practical shape for carrying taller items), our recommendation is to go for the EV6. Not only is it still a hugely roomy car, but it's also great to drive, its tech is more intuitive to operate, and it has a much longer warranty from new. It's not just the winner here; it's one of our favourte EVs full-stop.