New Nissan Ariya vs Kia EV6: verdict
Nissan’s first electric SUV really is in at the deep end as it goes head to head with its most formidable rival, our reigning Car of the Year. Will it sink or swim?...
Our verdict
The Ariya isn’t quite the mould-breaker that the original Nissan Leaf was. Yes, it’s financially tempting, whether you’re a private buyer or a company car user. And despite us lining up the entry-level model here, it pretty much matches the mid-rung Kia EV6 GT-Line for standard equipment, However, as an all-round package, it ultimately lags behind its Korean rival.
With its significantly longer range and the ability to charge up more quickly, the EV6 maintains a lead in crucial areas. Plus, it’s more polished on the road, being more fun to drive and just as comfortable, as well as having a better infotainment system. And while it isn’t quite as roomy as the Ariya, it’s still a very practical family car.
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1st – Kia EV6
For Superior ride comfort; more agile handling; stronger performance; longer range; faster charging
Against Rearward visibility could be better
Recommended options Heat pump (£900)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Read our full Kia EV6 review >>
Find Kia EV6 deals >>
2nd – Nissan Ariya
For Cheaper to buy and run; generous level of equipment; quieter cruiser; higher driving position
Against Real-world range is disappointing; sluggish infotainment system; steering feels unnatural at higher speeds
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Nissan Ariya review >>
Find Nissan Ariya deals >>
Nissan Ariya 63kWh Advance
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 214bhp
Peak torque 221lb ft
0-60mph 7.6sec
30-70mph 6.2sec
Top speed 100mph
30-0mph 9.2m
70-0mph 48.9m
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
Driven wheels Fronts
Kerb weight 1917kg
Tyres (std) 235/55 R19
Noise at 30mph 59.2dB
Noise at 70mph 66.1dB
Battery capacity (usable) 63kWh
Real-world range (est) 195 miles
Official range 250 miles
Efficiency on test 3.1 miles/kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
7kW home wallbox charging time (0-100%) 10hr
Rapid charger, peak rate charging time (10-80%) 31min
Peak charging rate 130kW
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Kia EV6 RWD GT-Line
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 226bhp
Peak torque 257lb ft
0-60mph 7.1sec
30-70mph 6.1sec
Top speed 114mph
30-0mph 8.4m
70-0mph 46.5m
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
Driven wheels Rears
Kerb weight 1985kg
Tyres (std) 235/55 R19
Noise at 30mph 61.9dB
Noise at 70mph 67.2dB
Battery capacity (usable) 77.4kWh
Real-world range (est) 240 miles
Official range 328 miles
Efficiency on test 3.1 miles/kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Peak charging rate 239kW
7kW home wallbox charging time (0-100%) 12hr 30min
Rapid charger, peak rate charging time (10-80%) 18min
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Weather conditions Dry, hot
Car pictured
Nissan Ariya 63kWh Advance with Akatsuki Copper paint and Pearl Black roof (£1225), Sky Pack (£1295)
Kia EV6 RWD GT-Line with Yacht Blue metallic paint (£675)
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