Let’s take a closer look at the Kia EV3 as it begins its media tour.
Witnessing the rise of Kia‘s EV6 and EV9, the Korean car manufacturer’s luxury offerings, it’s evident that the company is dedicated to being a leading force in the electric vehicle sector. However, with the unveiling of the EV3 — a compact, budget-friendly model that doesn’t compromise on technology or style — it’s clear that this model is aimed at meeting the high demand found in Europe.
Entering the market with immense potential, the EV3 starts at a competitive price of £32,995, and offers appealing styling, generous cabin space, advanced battery technology, and more. But will it be able to fend off competition from brands such as Volvo, VW, and Cupra? Let’s delve deeper.
Introducing the EV3
Pros: Distinctive aesthetics, superior comfort and spaciousness, affordability, packed with impressive features
Cons: No standard heat pump, modest charging rates
Making its Debut
Kia’s EV3 is their most compact electric vehicle to date, similar in size to the Niro but with the interior volume of a Sportage. It’s set to rival the likes of VW ID.3, Volvo EX30, and Smart #1 with its comprehensive feature list and affordability.
A Focus on Styling
One of the standout aspects of the EV3 is its eye-catching design. The body shape resembles that of a concept car with its chunky, clean lines, a strategic use of colour, and minimal decorations. Its design language, dubbed ‘Opposites United’ by Kia, captivates by seamlessly integrating different shapes, angles, and lines. We’re big fans!
Tech-Savvy Specs
Buyers will have the chance to choose from three different versions, each with varying trim levels and battery packs, when deliveries start later this year. From the base model Air with two battery options to the GT-Line and GT-Line S with standard Long Range batteries, all models come with a single motor that powers the front wheels, producing up to 201bhp and 209lb ft of torque.
The Air trim is teeming with safety features, tech upgrades, and infotainment goodies such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, heated front seats and steering wheel, parking sensors and reverse camera, regenerative braking, over-the-air updates, and more.
The GT-Line S takes luxury up a notch with an eight-speaker Harmon Kardon Premium sound system, 360-degree surround view for parking, sunroof, heated rear seats, and remote parking capabilities. However, the heat pump option is only available on this model for an additional £900.
Only time will tell if there will be a GT version of the EV3, but we are hopeful; the combination of the EV3 with the power of a GT would be a winning formula!
Charging and Range
The Standard Range 58.3kWh battery delivers a 267-mile WLTP range, while the significantly larger 81.4kWh Long Range battery can cover up to 372 WLTP miles between charges for Air models with 17-inch alloys, and 347 WLTP miles for GT-Line and GT-Line S models with 19-inch wheels.
Interior Comforts
The interior flawlessly combines innovative design with family-friendly functionality. The spacious cabin, facilitated by the front-wheel-drive layout, extended 2,680mm wheelbase, and streamlined dashboard, provides plenty of room, while the use of subtle colours and textures creates a calming atmosphere. High-tech features, like the dashboard-wide tri-screen, offer a wealth of safety, infotainment, and connectivity features.
Choosing the EV3
With competitive pricing, extensive features, and considerate design, the EV3 is a formidable contender in the market, competing with brands like VW, Volvo, and Cupra in terms of value for money. Its dynamic design, roomy and intelligently configured interior, refined ride quality, excellent range, and affordability make the EV3 a standout in the world of family-oriented electric vehicles. Despite minor complaints about its rear visibility, charging rates, and absence of a standard heat pump, the EV3 earns high marks for its comprehensive package, offering a practical and stylish solution for environmentally conscious families. As mentioned, we are eager to see a GT version – the more performance-based, affordable EVs, the better in our view. Although, we’re certain we’ll spot plenty of the GT-Line S models on our roads once they launch.
Specifications for Kia EV3 GT-Line S
- Price: £42,995
- Engine: 81.4kWh battery, 201bhp
- Transmission: Single-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive
- Performance: 7.7-sec 0-62mph, 106mph, 347-mile range, 0g/km CO2
- Weight/material: 1995kg/steel
- Dimensions (length/width/height in mm): 4310/1850/1570
