Overview

The latest instalment of Kia’s all-electric range of EV-branded cars has arrived: say hello to the Kia EV3.

Now the car has been revealed, and the design has stayed true to the striking concept. EV3 will be the smallest of the bespoke Kia EVs, before it is joined by the EV2 in 2026. The EV3 will also line up alongside the hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric Niro.

In fact, at 4,300mm long, 1,850mm wide and 1,560mm tall, the EV3 is only marginally larger than the Niro. Kia names cars like the Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra Born, Volvo EX30, Renault Megane E-Tech and Smart #1 as rivals.

For the EV3’s design, Kia says it has looked to the flagship EV9 for inspiration. Despite the lack of front grille, Kia has still managed to add its traditional ‘Tiger Face’, incorporating the brand’s new layout of thin ‘Star Map’ headlights place out wide for an aggressive look. Four exclusive exterior paint finishes have been created for the new EV3: Shale Grey, Aventurine Green, Frost Clue and Terracotta – with nine choices in total.

Around the side the squared-off body cladding of the concept has been retained, although on the GT-Line launch car it’s finished in gloss black; lower spec models will get a flatter matte finish that more closely resembles the concept’s look. There are 19-inch diamond-cut wheels, exclusive to the EV3, with 18-inch and 20-inch alternatives on other trim levels.

Elsewhere, the EV3 sports a sloping roof which tapers with the window line for a more dynamic profile towards the rear – aiding the sharp surfacing down the side for a squat stance. The front doors wear flush-fitting door handles but the rear doors have their handles hidden in the C-pillar.

To the rear we can see further influence from the EV9 with another thin light signature. The rear bumper, like the front, will change depending on trim, with different finishes and designs for the number-plate surround.

Sitting on the same E-GMP architecture as the mid-range EV6, the EV3 gets two battery sizes: 58.3kWh or 81.4kWh, both with NMC battery chemistry. The ‘Standard Range’ battery will be only offered on the base trim level, and sends power to a front-mounted electric motor with 201bhp. That’s enough for 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds, and a range of 254 miles.

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