The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is well underway, and Kia is once again demonstrating its commitment to leading the charge. With the release of the Kia EV3, the Korean automaker has introduced a compact electric crossover that is set to appeal to mainstream buyers who seek efficiency, performance, and style in a more compact, affordable package.
Positioned below the mid-size EV6 and the full-size EV9 in Kia’s electric lineup, the EV3 is expected to rival the likes of the Volvo EX30, Renault Megane E-Tech, and Smart #1 in a competitive market.
Let’s dive into what makes the Kia EV3 a promising contender in the growing segment of compact electric crossovers.
Table of Contents
A Design That Captures Attention
One of the first things that sets the Kia EV3 apart is its striking design. Borrowing elements from its larger sibling, the EV9, the EV3 maintains Kia’s signature ‘tiger face’ front end—a design cue that has become synonymous with the brand. This bold, somewhat boxy shape gives the EV3 a rugged and robust appearance, a visual contrast to the more fluid and sleek design of the EV6.
However, unlike the EV6, which is geared towards performance-oriented enthusiasts, the EV3 aims for broader appeal. It’s positioned as a family-friendly, practical electric vehicle that can be used for everyday errands and commutes. The compact size is ideal for urban environments where space is limited, yet it still offers a substantial presence on the road. Surprisingly, despite its compact designation, the EV3 is slightly larger in person than it appears in pictures—adding to its commanding road presence and further underscoring its capability as a family vehicle.
This is essential when considering the growing competition in the compact EV market. With rivals like the Volvo EX30 and Renault Megane E-Tech, the Kia EV3 stands out not only for its design but also for the attention to detail that Kia has paid to making it both stylish and practical.
Performance Meets Efficiency
When it comes to performance, the Kia EV3 offers versatility and choice, two key elements that many consumers look for when considering an electric vehicle. From launch, the EV3 will be available in two primary configurations: the Standard Range version and the Long Range version. The Standard Range model is powered by a 58.3 kWh battery, which offers up to 267 miles of range, while the Long Range version is equipped with an 81.4 kWh battery, providing a range of up to 372 miles.
Both versions share the same 201 bhp single motor that drives the front wheels. While this output is sufficient for daily driving, the difference in performance between the two versions is minimal, with the Standard Range achieving 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds and the Long Range taking slightly longer at 7.7 seconds due to the additional weight of the larger battery. While neither version is designed to be a speed demon, the acceleration is more than adequate for a vehicle in this class, providing smooth and responsive performance without sacrificing efficiency.
For those who crave more power, Kia plans to release a 262 bhp twin-motor all-wheel-drive variant, as well as a top-tier 288 bhp GT version. However, the standard models are likely to be more than enough for the typical buyer. Given the focus on practicality and range, opting for higher performance could come at the cost of the EV3’s impressive efficiency—something that many buyers may prefer to avoid in favor of greater driving range.
A Focus on Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Kia EV3, and it immediately becomes clear that the brand has prioritized comfort, practicality, and technology. Much like its exterior design, the EV3’s interior borrows heavily from Kia’s other electric models. The overall layout and styling will feel familiar to anyone who has spent time in a recent Kia, with the steering wheel shape and dashboard layout echoing what we’ve seen in the EV6 and EV9.
However, the EV3 still manages to carve out its own identity. The use of light tones and colors throughout the cabin creates an airy and inviting atmosphere, a departure from the darker interiors found in many rival vehicles. Versatility is also key to the EV3’s interior design. One of the more interesting features is the center console, which doubles as a table—a clever use of space that adds to the vehicle’s practicality.
The tech offerings in the EV3 are equally impressive. The centerpiece is a near 30-inch widescreen display that spans the dashboard, incorporating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 5-inch air conditioning control panel. Despite the abundance of screens, Kia has wisely retained some physical buttons for commonly used functions, ensuring that the user interface remains intuitive and easy to use.
Passenger comfort is also well-catered for. The EV3 offers a flat floor in the rear, which allows for a more spacious seating arrangement and ensures that even five passengers can travel in comfort. In terms of cargo space, the EV3 provides a 460-liter boot, which should be more than enough for most daily needs. Additionally, a 25-liter front trunk (frunk) adds even more storage space, and there are numerous storage cubbies throughout the cabin to keep smaller items organized.
The Cost of Going Electric
One of the most critical factors for buyers when considering an electric vehicle is the cost. While official pricing for the Kia EV3 is yet to be confirmed, it’s expected that Kia will position the EV3 competitively within the compact electric crossover market. Given its size, range, and level of equipment, the EV3 is likely to offer good value for money, especially compared to rivals like the Volvo EX30 and Smart #1.
Kia has built a reputation for providing feature-rich vehicles at competitive prices, and the EV3 is expected to follow suit. With government incentives for electric vehicles still available in many regions, the EV3 could be an attractive proposition for families looking to make the switch to electric without breaking the bank. Additionally, the low running costs associated with electric vehicles—such as lower maintenance costs and the potential for savings on fuel—will further bolster the EV3’s appeal.
