EV6

Make
Kia
Segment
SUV

In an attempt to lure more buyers into showrooms, Kia has reintroduced the EV6 Light to the lineup, reports CarsDirect. This base model was discontinued late last year, leaving the Wind as the new entry-level variant. According to a dealer bulletin seen by the publication, the Light has been re-added - but Kia's official website makes no mention of this.

However, a Kia representative has confirmed the return of the Light trim level but is choosing to only sell the vehicle in certain regions. It's only available to customers in Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.

"Kia is following the market and other EVs sellers such as VW [which] are offering shorter range models in relatively limited volume. Kia is doing the same in the Western Region only. Customers who don't require the longer range appreciate the value," said company spokesperson James Hope.

CarsDirect also contacted a Kia dealership in Ontario, Canada, which confirmed that it, too, had an EV6 Light in stock. As per the report, the entry-level model has a sticker price of $43,925. While it's $1,230 pricier than before, it is markedly cheaper than the EV6 Wind, which has an MSRP of $48,700. Interestingly, Kia hasn't revealed official pricing for this model.

The EV6 Light is reportedly eligible for a $7,500 lease incentive from Kia, making it even more affordable. As a reminder, the Kia EV6 does not qualify for the latest EV tax credits, which means some buyers may not give the EV6 a second glance. This lower-priced model, however, may change things for customers situated on the West Coast.

If the EV6 Light specifications remain unchanged, expect a maximum range of 232 miles.

That can't match the 310 miles of range available on the plusher Wind trim level. The EV6 Light does, however, best the base $41,450 Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range, which can travel up to 220 miles between charging stints. Then again, the Mustang Mach-E RWD can be had for $42,995-the 2023 model benefits from a competitive estimated range of 250 miles.

And let's not forget Tesla, either. A rear-wheel drive Model 3 could be yours for just $40,240. With an EPA-estimated 272 miles, it's arguably the best of the bunch. With all this competition, we can see why Kia has elected to reintroduce the EV6 Light, but we wonder if it's good enough to battle its strong rivals, which also includes the $38,995 Volkswagen ID.4 Standard.