Kia EV3 is based on the E-GMP platform shared with its elder electric siblings
Kia EV3 electric SUV revealed, the fourth model in its dedicated electric vehicle lineup, following the EV9, EV6 and EV5. Built on the E-GMP modular platform, the EV3 continues Kia’s trend of incorporating advanced interior technology and equipment from its higher-end models.
The EV3 shares a significant portion of its interior technology with the flagship EV9, including twin 12.3-inch floating infotainment screens and a comprehensive suite of haptic buttons. The dashboard design mirrors that of the EV9, featuring concealed AC vents and buttons for navigation and media controls. The EV3 includes a 30-inch widescreen setup, integrating a 5-inch screen for climate controls, a feature directly borrowed from the EV9.
In terms of interior space, the EV3 benefits from the flat floor typical of born electric vehicles, providing ample room. The large floating centre console doubles as a storage tray with cup holders and the front centre armrest contains a retractable table. The driver’s seat offers a ‘relaxation mode’ for enhanced comfort during charging stops.
Sustainability is a key focus in the EV3’s design. The upholstery is made from recycled PET bottles, biowaste is used in the paint and the dashboard and exterior cladding incorporate recycled plastic from older Kia models.
The EV3’s exterior design is characterised by a distinct two-box silhouette, resembling a scaled-down version of the flagship EV9. The front features Kia’s signature ‘star map’ LED lighting pattern framing the ‘tiger nose’ fascia. The bumper presents a smooth, expansive panel with chunky cladding that enhances its muscular look.
In profile, the EV3 stands out with flared wheel arches, thick black plastic cladding and trapezoidal creases over the fenders. The large glasshouse, flush door handles and a wraparound design at the C-pillar contribute to its sleek appearance. The rear end features vertical tail lamps extending from the glasshouse, sloping roofline and a pronounced rear spoiler designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency. The EV3 also includes GT-Line variants with sportier bumpers.
The EV3 is offered with two battery pack options – a 58.3kWh standard model and an 81.4kWh Long-Range variant. Both models feature a front-axle mounted electric motor producing 201 HP and 283 Nm of torque, enabling 0-100 km/hr sprint time of 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/hr. The Long-Range variant boasts a range of up to 600 km on the WLTP cycle. The 400V architecture allows for a 10 to 80 percent charge in 31 minutes, and the EV3 includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities.
The EV3 is equipped with a 12-inch heads-up display, configurable ambient lighting, a Harman Kardon sound system and ADAS. It is the first Kia EV to feature a personal AI assistant, with plans for this technology to be introduced across other models soon. The EV3 offers a 460-litre boot and an additional 25-litre front trunk for storage.
Kia plans to launch the EV3 in South Korea in June 2024, with subsequent rollouts in Europe by late 2024 and other Asian markets by early 2025. It is expected to launch in India later in 2025.
