EV Roundup: Entry level EVs with performance, practicality and affordability
There is no shortage of choice at the top end of the electric vehicle market. From the Porsche Taycan and BMW iSeries to the Mercedes EQ and Audi eTron, early adoption of the full EV experience has come at the top end.
However, additional manufacturers have entered the area with some fun of their own. With performance, practicality and affordability on the table, Kia, Subaru and Mini offer unique entries into a space that continues to broaden its appeal. Let’s take a look:
Kia EV6 GT
Kia’s all-electric EV6 GT is a high-performance crossover that’s versatile enough for the family. Highlighted by its dual-motor powertrain with an output of 430 kW (576 combined horsepower), the new EV6 GT has a total power increase that’s 44 percent higher than previous models. Its power is instantaneous going 0-to-60 (mph) in 3.4 seconds, out-accelerating those that cost thousands more to purchase. Appropriate for the brands most powerful vehicle yet.
Additional performance upgrades include a dedicated sports suspension with electronically controlled dampers. The technology offers a higher level of handling, where traction and stability control mix in a ‘best-in-class’ ride. Large ventilated brakes -- 15 inch in the front and 14.2 inch in the rear -- and 21-inch alloy wheels make for responsive cornering, while neon hued calipers highlight the vehicle’s impressive stopping abilities.
Drivers also control where the power is directed, including what’s called “drift” mode, where it is distributed to the rear wheels. The other choices include GT Drive Mode, Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow. Each mode is accessible at the push of a button.
The EV6 GT is Kia’s first and flagship offering under its new Plan S electrification. Based on its E-GMP modular platform, Kia EVS are built around durability and performance. This new vehicle is a big transition point for the brand’s electrification goals.
"The EV6 GT ushers in the next chapter of the Plan S electrification story for Kia, elevating the EV6's thrilling performance and effortless drivability beyond expectations," said Steven Center, COO and Executive Vice President, Kia America. "Moving toward our tailpipe zero-emissions goals has never been as exhilarating."
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Subaru Solterra
Derived from the Latin word that means “sun” and “earth,” the Solterra is the first-ever electric vehicle for Subaru. Combining green, emissions-free driving with a hefty dose of the latest driver technology, the Solterra is for families who desire the versatility of a crossover, yet aspire towards zero emissions.
Like most Subaru’s, the EV comes with standard all-wheel drive. This is an upgrade, as the new Symmetrical AWD system channels seamless inputs from Subaru StarDrive, distributing power throughout the drivetrain for max traction no matter the terrain or weather conditions. Grip and downhill assist control are also included for low-friction and challenging off-road conditions.
This Subaru also has ground-clearance of 8.3 inches, 215 horsepower at 249-foot pounds of torque -- combined for both off-roading and the daily commute. The 125 cubic feet of passenger and cargo space provides plenty of legroom, while still having the ability to carry cargo for trips to the store or family vacations.
Safety is also a critical feature. Driver technologies include emergency steering assist, intersection collision avoidance, pre-collision brake assist, lane-departure prevention, dynamic radar cruise control and lane tracing assist. That’s not all. The Solterra also features blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera detection and pedestrian warning.
Inside, the Solterra is clean and minimalist. A high-resolution, 12.3-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is combined with multimedia options and climate control. The model also has an available panoramic roof for those that want to open up the outdoors, and a wireless phone dock charger.
If you are looking for off-road performance, zero emissions and family friendliness in your daily drive, check out the Solterra.
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MINI EV
MINI’s longstanding heritage as a fun-driving vehicle remains in the Cooper SE electric vehicle. With nearly 20% of all MINI Cooper models on the road today already being electric, customers think very highly of this entry-level vehicle. Originally introduced in 2020, the Cooper SE is the brand’s most-popular version of the brand’s flagship model.
“With its electric drive and purist design, the new MINI Cooper is a perfect fit for an urban lifestyle. In the fifth generation of the MINI Cooper, we combine the traditional MINI DNA with innovative, future-oriented technology while enabling locally emission-free driving fun that is typical of MINI,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI.
Highest ranked in ownership satisfaction among mass-market battery electric vehicles according to J.D. Power, the MINI EV is a quick charge vehicle (36 minutes to 86% capacity) and 114 miles of range on a full charge at 181 horsepower. Also compatible with all three levels of charging intensity, the MINI Cooper EV is built for the everyday driver and a heat pump that regulates battery temperatures in support of electrical function.
The interior is full of tech goodies, including an 8.8-inch wide multimedia touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay standard. Wireless phone charger, navigation, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control are also available.
Other features include standard LED headlights, active driving assistant and lane-departure, which includes vibrating warning alerts when you start to cross into another lane. The MINI electric vehicle is the perfect vehicle for those who enjoy driving and are “on the go.”
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If you are in the market for your next car, truck or SUV, take advantage of Hendrick Automotive Group’s “No Payments for 90 Days” sales event, including the aforementioned EVs.
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