Kia Motors has officially unveiled the Kia EV3, its latest addition to the electric vehicle market. This new compact EV SUV is poised to redefine the sector with its combination of state-of-the-art technology, bold design, and leading-edge features, aimed at making sustainable mobility more accessible. Looking at the EV3 alongside other high quality EVs like the Volvo EX30, the market for Stellantis & Co will be getting very competitive in 2025.
The EV3, which draws heavily from the innovations and customer-centric approach of Kia’s award-winning EV9 SUV, was designed to exceed consumer expectations in the compact EV SUV category. According to Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia, “The EV3 aims to extend Kia's exceptional EV SUV experience to a broader audience. With a WLTP driving range of up to 600km and rapid charging capabilities, the EV3 will address common concerns about electric vehicles, reassuring potential users and leading the mass adoption of EVs.”
Externally, the EV3 makes a bold statement with its progressive design underpinned by Kia’s ‘Opposites United' design philosophy. This approach marries the divergent values of nature and modernity to create a harmonious, dynamic appearance. Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, explained, “The EV3 embodies our design philosophy perfectly—a playful yet functional design. Despite its compact size, it offers a spacious and relaxing interior that emphasizes restorative comfort for all journeys.”
The EV3's design is not just about aesthetics but also functionality. The vehicle's spacious interior is designed to maximise comfort and usability, accommodating five people comfortably with features like a sliding table and multi-adjustable ambient lighting. The practicality extends to its cargo capacity, boasting the largest luggage space in its class, accommodating a diverse range of family and leisure activities.
Under the hood, the EV3 is just as impressive. It is based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and is available in two variants: a Standard model with a 58.3kWh battery and a Long Range model with an 81.4kWh battery. Both feature a 150kW electric motor which enables a top acceleration of 0-100km/h in just 7.5 seconds. Spencer Cho, Vice President and Head of Global Business Planning, stated, “Our flexible E-GMP architecture delivers a best-in-class AER driving range. The EV3 redefines the EV SUV segment to create a compact model that is comprehensively equipped with innovative technology and features.”
Kia has equipped the EV3 with a host of advanced safety, driving, convenience, and charging features typically reserved for larger EV SUVs, enhancing the ownership experience significantly. These include Kia’s latest Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), which provide support and reassurance for drivers on every journey.
In addition to hardware, the EV3 also shines in its digital and connectivity offerings. It features a nearly 30-inch combined widescreen display, seamless integration of controls, and innovative in-car entertainment options such as Premium Streaming services and arcade games, enhancing the in-car experience.
Moreover, the EV3 introduces Kia’s AI Assistant technology, enhancing user interaction with the vehicle through intuitive voice commands. This AI technology understands complex contexts, allowing it to converse naturally with users, supporting travel planning, and optimising vehicle function usage.
Kia plans to launch the EV3 first in Korea in July 2024, followed by a rollout in Europe and other regions later in the year. This global campaign, under the banner of ‘A moving power,’ underscores Kia’s commitment to innovation and its goal to enhance EV accessibility worldwide. The launch of the EV3 is expected to make a significant impact on the market, bringing high-end EV technology and design into the more accessible compact SUV sector.
