In partnership with Auto Trader
New Kia EV6 vs used Jaguar I-Pace: practicality
The Kia EV6 is a class-leading new electric SUV, but for slightly less you could have a used version of Jaguar's super-desirable I-Pace. So, which is the better buy?...
Space and practicality
Front space, rear space, seating flexibility, boot
You’re unlikely to have any shortage of head or leg room in the front of either car, even if you're really tall. Plus, their seats are a good distance apart, so you won’t be banging elbows with the person next to you.
However, while two six-footers will fit in the back of the Jaguar I-Pace, they might feel a bit claustrophobic due to the relatively small windows and the way the roof curves downwards to the sides of the car. Life is also quite uncomfortable for a central rear passenger, because there's a lump in the floor where they'd ideally put their feet. And getting in and out requires you to climb over a wide sill.
Access is easier in the Kia EV6. What's more, it's a longer car than the I-Pace, with this translating into superior interior space. Rear leg room is best described as ‘limo-like’, and although head room isn’t quite as exceptional, you’d need to be well over six-feet tall to have any complaints. Finally, it's more comfortable for three rear passengers, offering more shoulder room and a completely flat floor.
Both boots can accommodate seven carry-on suitcases, even though there's more space leftover for other luggage in the I-Pace's. Plus, each car has a space beneath the boot floor for the charging cables, and a second luggage area under the bonnet; these 'frunks' are too small for even one carry-on case, but in rear-wheel-drive EV6's, you can fit a soft overnight bag or a couple of bags of shopping.
As standard, the I-Pace’s rear seats split and fold 60/40, but you might find a used car where the first owner paid out for a more versatile 40/20/40 arrangement. You can’t do anything fancy with the back seats, such as slide or recline them, but the backrests do at least lie almost flat when folded.
The EV6’s seatbacks can be reclined for a more relaxed seating position or folded down in a conventional 60/40 split. Meanwhile, a small hatch in the middle rear seatback allows you to carry long, thin items (skis, for example) and still have two rear passengers on board.
Boot space
Kia EV6
Boot capacity 490 litres Suitcases 7
Jaguar I-Pace
Boot capacity 557 litres Suitcases 7
