Kia on Wednesday revealed the production version of its EV3 compact electric crossover, which, if Kia sticks to initial hints, could start at around $35,000.
The EV3 arrives on the production line in roughly the same form EV3 concept first shown in October 2023, albeit with a slightly more rounded shape and especially the rear end—and with a completely different interior that borrows some ideas from the larger Kia EV9 electric SUV.
This is expected to be a global reveal for the model, and so far, Kia hasn’t provided details on U.S. specs, details or differences — or whether it’s certain that the model Is this aimed at the US or not? If it comes to the US at the $35,000 starting price that Kia is suggesting for this concept, it could be a serious competitor to the competition. Volvo EX30along with others including Hyundai Kona Electric and the next-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV—and left Kia’s own Niro EV on uncertain ground.
The EV3 was successful from the start thanks to some key decisions. It’s built on Hyundai’s flexible E-GMP architecture, which has resulted in fast-charging, drivable electric vehicles from Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, and it has a drag coefficient of just 0.263—awesome. Great for efficiency in such an upright vehicle.
Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform
The EV3 isn’t a hot hatchback, but it looks sharp
Kia has tried to apply many of the same geometric and technical details from the concept, while also incorporating Kia’s latest Star Map lighting theme, which also debuted in 2017. Kia EV6 2025. EV3 will have 9 different exterior colors.
Two different battery packs will be equipped on the EV3, fitted to the EV3 Standard models and EV3 Long Range versions, with capacities of 58.3 kwh and 81.4 kwh respectively. Kia notes that charging time will be approximately 31 minutes from 10-80%. Regardless of battery type, a single 150 kw (201 hp) electric motor delivers 209 lb-ft of torque and accelerates the EV3 to 60 mph (60 mph) in 7.5 seconds.
New Kia EV3
The Kia EV3 can travel more than 300 miles
Kia boasts a WLTP driving range of up to 373 miles. The EPA ratings are based on different driving cycles, and this isn’t a direct translation, but based on how other Kia EVs like the EV6 and EV9 have performed, that could mean EPA range ratings are more than 300 miles for some versions.
The EV3 features a more advanced version of the regenerative braking system, including one-pedal driving and adjustable modes for various levels of regenerative braking. The EV3 will be one of the few vehicles in the compact segment to offer so-called Vehicle-to-Truck (V2L) power output, which is great for powering small appliances and tools—and perhaps gateway for other two-way charging features.
The dedicated electric vehicle platform gives the impression of a spacious passenger space considering the compact compact appearance of this model. While cargo capacity is fairly normal for this vehicle size, with 17.0 cubic feet of rear cargo space with the rear seats folded up and less than 1 cubic foot of space available, the layout The interior layout allows for a sliding table, fully reclining seats for fold-back relaxation mode and a center console with sliding table and storage area. The adjustable two-tier luggage floor allows for a flexible 5.5-inch load floor.
New Kia EV3
Little EV3 goes big with interface, streaming, AI
The centerpiece of the EV3’s dashboard is the massive display, which spans nearly 30 inches and combines two 12.3-inch screens plus a 5-inch climate control panel—essentially a version of what debuted first time on EV9. The screen in the center of the dashboard is a touch screen for entertainment and navigation.
Digital key systems based on smartphones or smartwatches allow entry and exit without the need for a physical key. Kia plans to offer downloadable display themes to customize the EV3 dashboard and infotainment system, and streamable content will be available through the Premium Streaming service powered by webOS and through LG’s content platform. Kia says that with a top-of-the-line Harman Kardon sound system, the experience will be like a home cinema.
The Kia EV3 uses integrated synthetic AI for the voice assistant, extending natural language commands to expand vehicle functions, entertainment and information search.
Just like the EV3 concept, the production EV3 makes good use of recycled materials – including recycled fabric for the dashboard and door trim along with PET material used throughout the interior.
New Kia EV3
When will EV3 arrive in the US?
Kia says the EV3 will be introduced in Korea in July 2024, followed by Europe in the second half of the year. It said it “plans to expand sales of the EV3 to other regions, with further launches expected after entering the European market”. So the US could be part of the plan by 2025.
