I live in the northeast US and am really interested in getting an EV6. However, I don’t want the AWD option because of the lower range. For those who own the RWD version, how has it handled ice and snow?
It seems like I’d have to visit an out-of-state dealer since it looks like they only sell AWD models here.
It’s fine as long as you have the right tires. Winter traction is way more dependent on the tires than on having AWD. I used to have an EV6 RWD in Colorado for two years, and I got around fine with all-weather tires. Never felt the need for AWD.
I now have an EV9 RWD, again with all-weather Nokian tires. Haven’t had any problems.
@lineafager
This^^ tires really make a difference. I have a RWD and live in Michigan, it’s been just fine. I use snow mode and make sure to turn off regen braking when the roads are really bad.
@lineafager
All-weather tires are way better than those so-called ‘all-season’ ones. They really do make a difference.
KIADOC said:
@lineafager
All-weather tires are way better than those so-called ‘all-season’ ones. They really do make a difference.
Do you keep the all-weather tires on year-round? Does it impact the range much?
@KiaRevolution
According to tire shops in CO, you can keep the all-weather tires on all year. You wouldn’t want them in places like Arizona or SoCal in summer, but in the northeast, they’re perfect. You should talk to a local shop. I haven’t noticed much of an impact, and I actually think my m/kWh is better now. But I also don’t drive fast since I’ve had it for 28 months, and in Denver, I rarely go over 45mph.
@KiaRevolution
I don’t have any side-by-side tests, but I chose Nokian Outpost APTs for their low rolling resistance. I haven’t noticed a drop in efficiency during warmer months.
Just a heads up, the AWD models typically come with a heat pump, which the RWD versions lack. In winter, the RWD range would probably be affected more than you’d benefit from not having AWD.
hoopermalt said:
Just a heads up, the AWD models typically come with a heat pump, which the RWD versions lack. In winter, the RWD range would probably be affected more than you’d benefit from not having AWD.
That’s what I was thinking! The range difference between RWD and AWD is about 310 and 250 miles. If I lose, say, 30% on the RWD, that’s 217 miles, and with a 10% loss on the AWD, I’d get 225 miles. So, it seems pretty close, right? I know these numbers are rough estimates.
@KiaRevolution
I can confirm that with 90% charge on the AWD Wind, I get about 225 miles during the winter.
@KiaRevolution
I own a Wind RWD and live in Central Texas. I recommend considering the AWD for the heat pump, heated steering wheel, and the extra 200 ft-lbs of torque. I usually avoid AWD in ICE vehicles, but with EVs, I think it’s worth it. The RWD is still pretty good, but if you can afford it, AWD might be the way to go.
hoopermalt said:
Just a heads up, the AWD models typically come with a heat pump, which the RWD versions lack. In winter, the RWD range would probably be affected more than you’d benefit from not having AWD.
And with two motors, the AWD has more power.
I really think the range isn’t a big deal. You’re making a mistake skipping the AWD, especially if you live in areas with snow and ice.
James said:
I really think the range isn’t a big deal. You’re making a mistake skipping the AWD, especially if you live in areas with snow and ice.
Why do you say that? A lot of people say tires are what matter most. I’d be sad to lose the heated steering wheel, though! Only AWD models come with it in the US.
@KiaRevolution
One, it’s way more fun to drive, and you won’t even use the last 30 miles of battery. I have 57,000 miles on my Wind AWD, and I’ve been under 20% charge only a handful of times. The lowest I’ve ever been is 9%, and I still made it. Two, you can get nearly the same efficiency in eco mode with AWD if you’re gentle on the pedal. Plus, with a full set of snow tires, the traction is unbelievable. It’s the best ice/blizzard commuter I’ve ever had.
@James
Thanks! This might change my mind! I test-drove the GT line with AWD, and the acceleration was incredible, even without flooring it.
I own the AWD version in the northeast US. Range is the most important thing in winter, and any savings you might get from the RWD model will be eaten up by the lack of a heat pump. The RWD also doesn’t have the heated steering wheel.
The front motor on the AWD only kicks in when you’re coming from a stop, accelerating hard, in Sport mode with Cruise off, or in Snow mode.
@fabian
That’s interesting! Why do you think the EPA ranges are so different then? Maybe it’s the extra weight? The RWD has 310 miles, and the AWD is around 252.
KiaRevolution said:
@fabian
That’s interesting! Why do you think the EPA ranges are so different then? Maybe it’s the extra weight? The RWD has 310 miles, and the AWD is around 252.
I’m not sure about the 2025 models with the bigger battery, but the 2024 models are rated at 310 miles vs 282 for the AWD on the same wheel size. The 252-mile range only happens with the larger 20” wheels, which really hurt the range.
@fabian
Good point! I didn’t catch that detail.