This is the new Kia EV3

Kia seems to be really on the move at the moment and is constantly adding to its fully electric EV model range. After successfully launching the large, seven-seater EV9, presenting a study on the mid-range SUV EV5, and recently giving the EV6 a facelift, the production version of the compact EV3 is now being presented. With a length of 4.30 meters, the electric car is positioned between the also fully electric Niro EV and E-Soul models, but is the smallest vehicle in the EV lineup to date. The basis is the “E-GMP” electric platform on which the EV6 and EV9 are also based. While the larger models have 800-volt technology, the EV3 has a 400-volt system. There are two battery sizes to choose from: The “Standard Range” model has a 58.3 kWh unit, which is designed for a range of around 410 kilometers. The “Long Range” version has an 81.4 kWh battery, which should enable a range of up to 600 kilometers. In both models, the front wheels are always powered by a 204 hp engine. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h is therefore possible in 7.4 to 7.7 seconds. Charging is done with up to 11 kW AC or 102 or a maximum of 128 kW DC in the “Long Range” model. The charging time on the fast charger is estimated at around 30 minutes (10 to 80 percent).

The Mini EV9

While the EV6 is still quite unique, the large EV9, the EV5 study and the EV3 have an extremely similar design. The front is characterized by the reinterpretation of the Kia-typical “tiger face”. This includes the lights located far out on the flanks. The split LED daytime running light signature is already familiar. Most of the front is closed. Horizontal elements visually make the vehicle appear wider. Massive paneling surrounds the wheel arches, which house tires with uniquely designed rims. The door openers for the rear doors are housed in the upright C-pillar. The rear is even more striking. The geometric LED taillights extend from the sides over the rear window up to the roof, where they end below the large spoiler – in the style of the EV9.

Practical interior

But there are also many parallels to the XXL SUV in the interior. The driver and front passenger sit on so-called “relaxation” seats, which are equipped with a reclining function. The center console has a storage compartment and a compact table that can also be moved. Drinks, snacks or even a large handbag can be stored in the lower storage area. Electronic devices such as laptops or tablets can be placed on the table during breaks. A total of 460 liters fit behind the rear seat in the EV3. A maximum of 1,250 liters is possible. An additional 25 liters of storage space is available in the “frunk” under the hood. The heart of the interior is the panoramic display, consisting of two 12.3-inch and one 5.3-inch screens. All vehicle and infotainment functions can be controlled via the screens. An AI based on ChatGPT is also on board. Instead of a classic car key, there is a “digital key” that can be shared by up to seven people. Kia relies largely on recycled materials for the materials. In terms of safety and assistance technologies, everything that is currently state-of-the-art is packed into the vehicle.

The new Kia EV3 will go on sale at the end of 2024. A version with all-wheel drive will be added at a later date. The manufacturer has not yet announced the prices.