Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 is a compact electric SUV designed to combine an urban-friendly footprint with the cabin space and everyday flexibility expected of a larger vehicle. Its styling is deliberately distinctive, while the interior takes a modern, technology-led approach that gives the small SUV a more substantial feel than its dimensions suggest.

One of the EV3's strongest attributes is its choice of battery sizes. The Standard Range version uses a 58.3kWh lithium-ion battery, while Long Range variants receive an 81.4kWh unit. Claimed WLTP range varies by grade, from 436km for the Air Standard Range to 604km for the Air Long Range, with the Earth and GT-Line Long Range listed at 563km. That spread gives buyers the choice between a more accessible specification and the greater travelling distance of the larger battery.

Power comes from a 150kW electric motor producing 283Nm, paired with a single-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The powertrain layout is well suited to a compact SUV intended for straightforward, quiet and responsive driving. The EV3 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds in Air Standard Range form, while the GT-Line Long Range is listed at 7.9 seconds.

Inside, the cabin is dominated by twin 12.3-inch displays, with one serving as the multimedia screen and the other providing driver information. The standard equipment list includes wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, digital radio, voice recognition, wireless phone charging, over-the-air updates and dual-zone climate control. Four USB-C ports, a 12-volt outlet and vehicle-to-load charging add useful flexibility for devices and equipment.

Kia has made practical use of the EV3's compact SUV packaging. The rear compartment is described as spacious and airy, with useful legroom and headroom, while the five-seat cabin includes a 60:40 split-fold rear bench. Cargo capacity is listed at 460 litres with all seats in place, supplemented by a 25-litre front trunk. These figures make the EV3 a considered option for owners who need everyday carrying capacity without moving into a larger vehicle class.

Grade differences extend beyond battery capacity. Air models use cloth upholstery, while Earth versions feature two-tone artificial leather and GT-Line models receive grade-specific two-tone artificial leather seats. Earth and GT-Line variants also include a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with the GT-Line adding the same adjustment range for the front passenger. A retractable centre-console table is available in the GT-Line, though its unusual design may not appeal to every driver.

The EV3 is available in a broad palette including Pure White or Clear White, Snow White Pearl, Ivory Silver, Aurora Black Pearl, Shale Grey, Frost Blue, Matcha Green and Terracotta, with some finishes identified as premium paint options. Its combination of electric range, compact dimensions, digital equipment and flexible interior gives the model a clear focus on practical, technology-rich electric motoring.

• Electric SUV with front-wheel drive and single-speed automatic transmission
• 150kW/283Nm electric motor
• 58.3kWh Standard Range and 81.4kWh Long Range battery options
• Claimed WLTP range from 436km to 604km, depending on grade
• Five seats and 60:40 split-fold rear seats
• 460-litre cargo area plus a 25-litre front trunk

Other highlights include Transmission: 1 Speed Automatic.