View Photos of the 2023 Kia EV6 GT

The EV6 GT is the high-performance version of the existing EV6, with a potent 577-hp all-wheel-drive powertrain.

From the outside, there’s little to indicate that this is the GT beyond 21-inch wheels, a liftgate spoiler, and restyled bumpers.

We drove an early car in Europe, where Kia claims the GT can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 161 mph—very high for an EV.

Power comes from upgraded motors, the one at the rear making 362 horsepower and sending its output to an electronically controlled torque-biasing differential. The front motor adds up to 215 horsepower.

The GT shares its 77.4-kWh battery pack with the existing long-range EV6, although range for the GT will be lower.

The GT’s cabin is close to the existing EV6 GT-Line that sits just below it in the hierarchy.

The most obvious interior change is new semi-bucket sports seats trimmed in microfiber, but there is also a GT mode selector on the steering wheel.

Choosing GT mode unleashes the full power output—in Normal or Sport modes, the EV6 is limited to 460 horsepower. GT mode also unlocks the further option of selecting a drift mode.

While a drift mode might seem like an unlikely function for a family-oriented crossover, it works effectively. Kia engineers hint that its existence is more about proving their mastery of e-motor torque management than an expectation of customer use.

The EV6 GT will reach the U.S. after market introduction in Europe, getting here early next year. Pricing and EPA range haven’t been confirmed yet.