@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Kia Corporation
VS

Ford Explorer EV vs Kia EV6 – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Ford Explorer EV or Kia EV6 fits your lifestyle better.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Introduction: A Clash of Electric Titans

In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles, the competition continues to heat up as brands strive to deliver innovative solutions and remarkable performance. In this article, we pit the Ford Explorer EV against the Kia EV6—two remarkable SUVs that showcase the future of electric mobility. Each vehicle has its unique advantages, and we’ll explore their technical aspects and innovative features to see which SUV reigns supreme.

EV6 @ Kia Corporation

Design and Dimensions

The Ford Explorer EV measures 4,468 mm in length, 1,871 mm in width, and 1,630-1,639 mm in height, presenting a robust and muscular stance typical of Ford's SUV lineage. It offers ample space with a trunk capacity of 450-445 liters, making it quite practical for everyday use.

On the other hand, the Kia EV6 exhibits a more aerodynamic design, stretching to 4,695 mm in length, 1,880-1,890 mm in width, and a lower height of 1,550 mm. This gives it a sportier profile while still providing substantial trunk space of 490 liters. Both vehicles offer five seats, catering well to family needs.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Powertrains and Performance

Under the hood, the Ford Explorer EV comes with several power options ranging from 170 hp to a compelling 340 hp. It offers both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations and impresses with a torque output of up to 679 Nm. The Explorer EV boasts a respectable acceleration time of 5.3 seconds (0-100 km/h) with its top-end powertrain, making it a strong contender for those seeking performance.

The Kia EV6, while starting at 170 hp, can go up to 325 hp, also offering both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. Its peak torque figures reach 605 Nm, enabling a spirited 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 5.3 seconds in the higher-performance variant. While slightly less powerful than the Explorer EV's top option, the EV6's athletic design and performance credentials ensure it remains competitive.

EV6 @ Kia Corporation

Battery and Range

Battery technology plays a pivotal role in the appeal of an electric vehicle. The Ford Explorer EV features a battery capacity range from 52 kWh to 79 kWh, with a commendable electric range of up to 602 km on the higher capacity model. It consumes 13.9-16.6 kWh/100km depending on the variant, providing an impressive efficiency option for long-distance travel.

Conversely, the Kia EV6 houses a larger battery option of up to 84 kWh, delivering an electric range of 428-582 km. The consumption ranges from 15.9 to 17 kWh/100km, which places it slightly less efficient than the Ford in its highest-performing configuration. However, the high-capacity battery does provide extended travel options overall.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Safety and Technology

Both the Ford Explorer EV and Kia EV6 come outfitted with a suite of safety features and technological innovations. They include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), prolific infotainment options, and connectivity features that ensure a modern driving experience.

Ford has long established itself in terms of safety, and the Explorer EV is anticipated to carry forward that legacy with cutting-edge technologies including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision avoidance systems. The vehicle is also designed to meet or exceed rigorous safety standards, instilling confidence in potential buyers.

Kia also excels in this realm, offering a plethora of safety technologies in the EV6, with innovative features such as highway driving assist, blind-spot monitoring, and smart cruise control, among others. The EV6 has received high safety ratings in various regulatory tests, solidifying its reputation as a safe family-friendly vehicle.

EV6 @ Kia Corporation

Conclusion: Which SUV Best Suits Your Needs?

The decision between the Ford Explorer EV and Kia EV6 ultimately hinges on individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize range, power, and the ruggedness typical of an SUV, the Ford Explorer EV—with its superior battery range and impressive towing capabilities—might be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if sportiness, design, and cutting-edge technology are what capture your attention, the Kia EV6 could be the perfect fit.

Both vehicles offer an exciting glimpse into the future of electric SUVs, each contributing to the shift towards sustainable mobility in their own unique way. Whichever you choose, you can be assured of a thrilling ride, remarkable tech, and a commitment to a cleaner future.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Ford Explorer EV has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34200 £, while the Kia EV6 costs 38600 £. That’s a price difference of around 4362 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Ford Explorer EV: with 14.50 kWh per 100 km, it’s barely noticeable more efficient than the Kia EV6 with 15.90 kWh. That’s a difference of about 1.40 kWh.

As for range, the Ford Explorer EV performs hardly perceptible better – achieving up to 602 km, about 20 km more than the Kia EV6.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia EV6 has a decisively edge – offering 609 HP compared to 340 HP. That’s roughly 269 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Kia EV6 is convincingly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Ford Explorer EV takes 5.30 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Kia EV6 performs noticeable better – reaching 260 km/h, while the Ford Explorer EV tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 80 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Kia EV6 pulls a bit stronger with 770 Nm compared to 679 Nm. That’s about 91 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Ford Explorer EV is hardly perceptible lighter – 1908 kg compared to 1955 kg. The difference is around 47 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Kia EV6 offers hardly perceptible more room – 490 L compared to 450 L. That’s a difference of about 40 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Ford Explorer EV performs slight better – up to 1422 L, which is about 132 L more than the Kia EV6.

When it comes to payload, Ford Explorer EV distinct takes the win – 585 kg compared to 450 kg. That’s a difference of about 135 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Kia EV6 proves to be dominates this comparison and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Kia EV6 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £38,600
EV6 @ Kia Corporation

Kia EV6

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 170 - 609 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.9 - 20.9 kWh
  • Electric Range : 428 - 582 km

Ford Explorer EV

5 (2)
rate

The Ford Explorer EV translates the familiar big‑American SUV presence into whisper‑quiet electric motoring, offering roomy seating and a tech‑forward cabin that will please families and road‑trippers alike. It drives with more composure than its boxy looks suggest, blending a comfortable ride and eager acceleration while undercutting the guilt of gas stops — a practical, modern alternative for buyers who want Explorer space with electric charm.

details

Kia EV6

5 (1)
rate

The Kia EV6 looks like it sprinted off a concept stage, its bold, futuristic lines wrapping a surprisingly spacious and grown-up cabin. On the road it delivers crisp, immediate thrust and composed handling, with enough everyday practicality and slick tech to make ditching petrol feel like an upgrade rather than a compromise.

details
Ford Explorer EV
Kia EV6
Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
EV6 @ Kia Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
34200 - 48800 £
Price
38600 - 60000 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.5 - 17.2 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 - 20.9 kWh
Electric Range
360 - 602 km
Electric Range
428 - 582 km
Battery Capacity
52 - 79 kWh
Battery Capacity
63 - 84 kWh
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1908 - 2179 kg
Curb weight
1955 - 2220 kg
Trunk capacity
445 - 450 L
Trunk capacity
480 - 490 L
Length
4468 mm
Length
4695 mm
Width
1871 mm
Width
1880 - 1890 mm
Height
1630 - 1639 mm
Height
1545 - 1550 mm
Max trunk capacity
1417 - 1422 L
Max trunk capacity
1250 - 1290 L
Payload
561 - 585 kg
Payload
440 - 450 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
170 - 340 HP
Power HP
170 - 609 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.3 - 8.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 8.7 s
Max Speed
160 - 180 km/h
Max Speed
185 - 260 km/h
Torque
310 - 679 Nm
Torque
350 - 770 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
125 - 250 kW
Power kW
125 - 448 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Ford
Brand
Kia
What drive types are available for the Ford Explorer EV?

The Ford Explorer EV is available as Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.