KIA EV3

What is it? Kia’s ‘most affordable electric SUV’

When is it available? Now

Biggest changes? Brand new model for the Korean manufacturer’s ‘EV’ lineup

Fleet appeal? Electric drive, choice of batteries, high basic spec

NINE INTO THREE GOES

It’s fair to say that Kia has made an impressive leap into the world of electric vehicles. The latest arrival taking styling and technology cues from the larger flagship, the EV9, which, in itself built on the impressive EV6. The EV3 will open up EV driving to a whole new audience as one of nine UK-bound new EVs by 2027.

CALMNESS IN THE CABIN

Spacious, functional and effective is how Kia is describing the EV3’s interior. Comfortably seating five people, there’s a large centre console with sliding table and storage area suitable for items up to the size of a small backpack. There’s multi-adjustable ambient lighting, seats with a ‘fold-back relaxation mode’ and 30-inch combined widescreen display.

BEST OF BOTH BATTERIES

EV3 gets Kia’s fourth-generation EV battery technology and a front-wheel-drive setup that sits on the Korean’s E-GMP platform. Two different battery sizes are offered – 58.3kWh in the EV3 Standard and 81.4kWh in the EV3 Long Range. Maximum mileages are 267 and 372 respectively (WLTP). Charging from 10-80% will take as little as 31 minutes.

PLENTY OF SPECS APPEAL

As with the EV9, three grades of EV3 will be offered in the UK: Air; GT-Line and GT-Line S. Every model of the car comes with a very generous amount of kit, including: three-screen dashboard layout; heated front seats and steering wheel; automatic air conditioning; 25-litre frunk and regex-braking panel shifter with iPedal functionality. Safety-wise, there is a plethora of ADAS examples, such as blind spot collision avoidance, safety exit warning and intelligent speed limit assist.

VERDICT

With an increasing number of manufacturers (particularly Chinese brands) looking to make headway into the UK’s EV market, it’s important for Kia to try and stay ahead of the game. With the EV3, it gives itself the best chance of doing so, with a product that is affordable, high quality and – if the EV6 and EV9 are anything to go by – great to drive. We won’t be surprised if it is picking up more awards, like its larger stablemates.

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