2022 Kia EV6 vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sporty and sleek design reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually striking presence. Its highback tail featured a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and the wheels were pushed to the corners, creating a dynamic silhouette. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those of a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The headlights, with their V-shaped pattern, and the sealed air intake-like trim contributed to its aggressive look. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and futuristic seats, creating an aesthetic that prioritized the car's design over its tech features.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like appearance. It was longer and wider, with a muscular stance enhanced by its extended wheelbase and tracks. The classic D-pillar taillights evolved into a modern, aggressive design with three L shapes. The CR-V Hybrid's sport treatment included black roof rails, mirrors, and wheels, giving it a bold look. Inside, the design followed the premium trend seen in other Honda models, with high-quality materials and attractive contrast stitching, creating a refined and cohesive interior.

The 2022 Kia EV6, tested in its GT-Line e-AWD variant, delivered 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motors. With a 77.4 kWh battery, it accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and handled corners with agility. The upcoming GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp. The EV6's regenerative braking offered over eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, its range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65% of Kia's estimated 441-kilometre range. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times were longer than claimed.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid combined a 2.0-litre engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h and a towing capacity of 450 kg. The hybrid featured a CVT and four drive modes, including a new Snow mode. The updated AWD system could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels. The CR-V Hybrid's regenerative braking system allowed for a one-pedal driving experience, and it boasted impressive fuel efficiency, consuming 6.4 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. Its climate and stereo controls were combined in a touchscreen, which could be frustrating while driving. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, but cargo space was limited to 690 litres behind the seats. Towing capacity was 1,043 kg, and it included an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from its larger exterior, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with seats up and 2,030 litres when folded. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders. The Touring model included a hands-free power tailgate and a standard power moonroof.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, though it required wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured a 360-degree camera system, customizable engine sounds, and an augmented reality HUD. The GT-Line Package 2 included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and remote parking assist.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a mix of physical and touchscreen controls. The EX-L and Hybrid Touring trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen with a volume knob. Standard tech included USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, and heated seats. The Touring trim added wireless charging, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and smart navigation.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came with standard safety features like forward collision avoidance and lane keep assist. Higher trims offered blind spot monitoring and 360 cameras, though no official safety ratings were available.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid included the Honda Sensing suite with improved collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control. New features like traffic jam assist and traffic sign recognition were standard. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with structural enhancements for added protection.