If you’re cross‑shopping a used Kia EV6 vs a new Chevy Equinox EV, you’re in a sweet spot: both are practical, long‑range electric SUVs, but they take very different paths on price, performance, and charging. One is an early‑adopter performance darling that’s now hitting the used market, the other is a brand‑new, value‑oriented Ultium SUV. This guide walks through the real trade‑offs so you can decide which fits your budget, driving habits, and risk tolerance.
Why this comparison matters now
Overview: Used Kia EV6 vs New Chevy Equinox EV
Used Kia EV6 (2022–2024)
- Sporty crossover on Hyundai–Kia’s 800V E‑GMP platform
- Strong performance and ultra‑fast DC charging (peak ~239 kW on long‑range trims)
- EPA range typically 250–310 miles depending on trim and year
- Now available used as leases end, often well‑equipped
- 7‑year/100,000‑mile battery warranty from original in‑service date (U.S.)
New Chevy Equinox EV (2025+)
- Ultium‑based compact SUV positioned as an affordable long‑range EV
- Up to 319 miles EPA‑estimated range on FWD models
- Peak DC fast‑charge rate around 150 kW, ~77 miles in about 10 minutes under ideal conditions
- Sold new with full factory bumper‑to‑bumper and battery warranties
- Access to GM’s growing Ultium Charge 360 network and adapters for Tesla Superchargers
Bottom‑line summary
Quick specs: used EV6 vs new Equinox EV
Core specs snapshot
Approximate specs for popular trims U.S. shoppers will actually see on lots. Individual vehicles may vary by year and equipment.
| Model / trim (typical) | Battery (approx.) | EPA range | Peak DC fast‑charge | 0–60 mph (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Used Kia EV6 Wind / GT‑Line RWD (2022–2024) | 77.4 kWh | ~300–310 miles | Up to ~239 kW on 800V DC fast charger | ~6.5 sec |
| Used Kia EV6 AWD (non‑GT) | 77.4 kWh | ~270–282 miles | Similar peak, slightly shorter high‑speed plateau | ~5.1 sec |
| New Chevy Equinox EV FWD (LT/RS) | ~85–90 kWh class (Ultium) | Up to 319 miles FWD | Up to 150 kW DC; ~77 miles in ~10 minutes | ~6–7 sec (varies by trim) |
| New Equinox EV eAWD | Same pack, dual motor | Around 285–307 miles depending on trim | Up to 150 kW DC | ~5–6 sec |
Always confirm exact specs for the VIN you’re considering.
Pricing, incentives, and what you actually pay
On paper, the Equinox EV wins the MSRP battle. Chevrolet positions it as “America’s most affordable 315+ mile EV,” with published starting prices around the mid‑$30,000s for LT trims and low‑to‑mid‑$40,000s for better‑equipped versions. Real‑world transaction prices can climb into the $40Ks or even low $50Ks once you add AWD and option packages.
A used Kia EV6 lives in a different world: original MSRPs were typically higher than today’s Equinox EV, but depreciation has started to bite. In many U.S. markets, you’ll now see 2022–2023 EV6 Wind or GT‑Line models listed in the high‑$20,000s to mid‑$30,000s depending on mileage, trim and condition, with performance GT models higher. That means a nicely optioned used EV6 often costs about the same as, or slightly less than, a brand‑new mid‑trim Equinox EV.
5 pricing levers you should look at
1. Federal tax credit eligibility
A new Equinox EV may qualify for a federal clean vehicle credit if your income and the VIN meet current rules. Used EV6s may qualify for the <strong>used EV tax credit</strong> if they’re at least two model years old and meet price caps, worth up to $4,000 off at the point of sale through participating dealers.
2. State and utility incentives
Some states or utilities offer rebates or bill credits that apply only to new EVs, while others allow incentives on used vehicles too. This can swing the math several thousand dollars either way.
3. Interest rate and loan term
New‑car financing sometimes comes with promotional rates from the manufacturer. A used EV6 might carry a slightly higher APR, but the <strong>lower principal</strong> can still keep the monthly payment competitive or lower.
4. Insurance and taxes
Registration taxes, property taxes, and insurance can differ between a brand‑new Equinox EV and a three‑year‑old EV6. Older vehicles usually cost a bit less to insure, but check quotes for your ZIP code.
5. Total cost of ownership
Factor in <strong>energy costs, maintenance, and expected depreciation</strong>. The Equinox EV starts with a full warranty but may lose value faster in its first three years. A used EV6 has already taken its biggest depreciation hit but could be closer to major wear‑and‑tear items.
Where Recharged fits in on price
Range and efficiency: how far will you really go?
Both of these SUVs deliver what most shoppers now expect from a modern EV: roughly 300 miles of rated range in their most efficient trims. The differences are more about how that range fits your lifestyle than which badge wins by a mile or two on a spec sheet.
Range highlights
EPA‑rated figures; your actual results will vary with driving style, temperature, and terrain.
Used Kia EV6
- Long‑range RWD trims are typically rated around 300–310 miles.
- AWD versions drop into the high‑200‑mile range.
- High‑performance GT trims trade range for power and can land closer to ~220 miles.
- Real‑world highway range at 70 mph is usually lower than EPA but still very road‑trip capable.
New Chevy Equinox EV
- FWD models tout up to 319 miles EPA‑estimated range, excellent for the price.
- eAWD drops slightly but remains competitive, around the high‑200s to low‑300s.
- Equinox EV is tuned more for efficiency than outright performance.
- Tall, practical body and Ultium tuning make it a strong choice for commuters and families.
Don’t forget winter and high‑speed driving
Charging speed and road‑trip ability
Here’s where the character of each SUV really shows. The Kia EV6 rides on an 800‑volt platform that’s built for ultra‑fast DC charging. Chevrolet’s Equinox EV, by contrast, aims for solid but not class‑leading DC speeds while keeping costs down.
Charging speed at a glance
Kia EV6: Built for fast‑charge road trips
- 800V architecture allows very high peak power and a flat charging curve from roughly 10–80% when conditions are right.
- On a 350‑kW charger, a long‑range EV6 can add a big chunk of range in under 20 minutes, making it one of the better non‑luxury road‑trip EVs.
- The flip side: charging performance is sensitive to battery temperature, charger quality, and software updates. Not every station will deliver headline numbers.
Equinox EV: Good enough, not class‑leading
- Ultium pack targets a 150 kW peak DC rate; in practice, you’ll often see speeds in the 120–150 kW ballpark early in a session on a strong charger.
- GM claims about 77 miles in 10 minutes and roughly 10–80% in 40–50 minutes when conditions are ideal.
- Voltage is lower than some rivals, so the car depends on high‑amp chargers for best performance. On older 150‑kW hardware, speeds may feel more average.
Think in stops, not specs
Space, comfort, and tech features
Both SUVs are roomy enough for family duty, but they’re aiming at different vibes. The EV6 is a low, sporty crossover with a futuristic cockpit. The Equinox EV leans into familiar Chevy cues and a more upright SUV stance.
Practicality and features
How each EV feels to live with day‑to‑day.
Interior space
Kia EV6: Lower seating position and sloping roof give it a sportier feel but slightly less airy rear headroom. Cargo space is competitive, though not class‑leading among boxier SUVs.
Equinox EV: More traditional SUV profile yields generous headroom and useful cargo volume. Great if you’re hauling kids, strollers, or bulky gear often.
Screens and tech
EV6: Dual 12.3‑inch displays, crisp graphics, and strong feature content, especially on GT‑Line and higher trims. Plenty of driver‑assist tech and modern connectivity.
Equinox EV: A standout 17.7‑inch center screen and built‑in Google integration on many trims. Lower trims may skip some luxury touches to hit price targets.
Driving feel
EV6: Taut, sporty ride with brisk acceleration, especially on AWD and GT variants. Feels like a performance‑minded crossover.
Equinox EV: Tuned for comfort and ease of use, not lap times. Quiet, relaxed, and approachable for drivers moving out of gas crossovers.
Family‑friendly notes
Warranty, battery health, and depreciation
This is the section that often tilts buyers toward new or used. New EVs come with time on their side; used EVs come with depreciation already baked in. The trick is understanding where battery health and remaining warranty coverage really stand.
Typical warranty picture (U.S.)
Always verify coverage for the specific VIN and in‑service date.
| Item | Used Kia EV6 (2022–2024) | New Chevy Equinox EV |
|---|---|---|
| Basic bumper‑to‑bumper | Likely 5 yr/60,000 mi from original in‑service date; may be partially expired | Full new‑car coverage (typically 3 yr/36,000 mi, model‑year dependent) |
| High‑voltage battery | Around 10 yr/100,000 mi from in‑service (check exact region and year); transferable | Ultium battery warranty usually around 8 yr/100,000 mi; full term remaining |
| Roadside & corrosion | Remaining balance from original warranty | Full new‑vehicle terms starting at purchase |
Battery and basic warranty coverage are major factors when buying used.
The hidden variable: real battery health
This is where a used EV6 can either be a screaming deal or a headache. If the battery has been treated well, you’re getting a still‑modern EV with top‑tier charging and plenty of warranty left, at a serious discount to new. But you also carry more unknowns than with a factory‑fresh Equinox EV, which starts at zero miles and maximum warranty but will depreciate faster in its first few years.
How Recharged’s battery diagnostics change the equation
Which EV fits which type of buyer?
Choose your path: buyer profiles
The road‑trip driver
You routinely drive 250–600 miles in a day and want minimum stop time.
A long‑range Kia EV6 with 800V fast charging will get you back on the road faster at high‑power stations.
If you’re comfortable with a used vehicle and rely heavily on DC fast charging, a well‑vetted EV6 is the stronger play.
The budget‑conscious commuter
Your daily driving is 40–80 miles, mostly around town or on the highway.
A new Equinox EV FWD offers excellent range per dollar, predictable costs, and a full warranty.
Charging overnight on Level 2 at home makes DC fast‑charge speed less critical.
The tech‑forward early adopter
You care about futuristic design, performance, and cutting‑edge charging tech.
The EV6 feels more like a statement piece, especially in GT‑Line or GT trims.
If you buy used through a platform that verifies battery health, you get halo‑car vibes at mainstream money.
The risk‑averse first‑time EV owner
The idea of unexpected repair bills makes you nervous.
A brand‑new Equinox EV, possibly with federal and state incentives, offers peace of mind and dealer support.
You trade some charging speed and uniqueness for a clean, simple ownership start.
A simple rule of thumb
How Recharged helps you shop a used Kia EV6 with confidence
Buying a used EV shouldn’t feel like a science project. Recharged is built specifically to make used electric vehicle ownership simple and transparent, especially for high‑tech models like the Kia EV6.
- Every EV6 on Recharged comes with a Recharged Score Report that includes battery health, charging history indicators, pricing vs. market, and condition details.
- You can finance your EV, get an instant offer or consignment option for your trade‑in, and handle paperwork through a fully digital experience.
- Our EV‑specialist team can walk you through how the EV6’s 800V charging works, what range to expect for your specific commute, and how it compares to new options like the Equinox EV.
- Nationwide delivery and an Experience Center in Richmond, VA give you flexibility in how you shop and take delivery.
Comparing against a new Equinox EV? Bring your numbers.
FAQ: Used Kia EV6 vs new Chevy Equinox EV
Frequently asked questions
Both a used Kia EV6 and a new Chevy Equinox EV can be the “right” choice, just for different buyers. The EV6 leans toward enthusiasts and road‑trippers who value fast charging and a sportier feel, while the Equinox EV is tuned for cost‑conscious shoppers who want a straightforward, long‑range electric SUV with a fresh warranty. If you’re leaning toward used, pairing the EV6’s strengths with verified battery health, fair pricing, and EV‑savvy support from Recharged gives you most of the perks of a new EV, without paying the early‑depreciation premium.
