Kia has revealed its latest electric vehicle, the EV3, marking its fourth addition to the EV lineup alongside the EV9, EV6, and EV5. This compact electric SUV aims to offer a premium driving experience at a reasonable price point.
The EV3 uses the same E-GMP modular platform as its electric siblings. Furthermore, it inherits the design elements and interior tech from premium electric models, such as the EV9.
EV3 Performance and Battery
Riding on the E-GMP platform, the EV3 provides two battery pack options. The base model features a 58.3kWh battery pack, whereas the Long-Range edition comes with a more substantial 81.4kWh battery pack.
The EV3 has a front-axle electric motor generating 201 horsepower and 283Nm of torque in both variants. This configuration enables a claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 170km/h.
According to the South Korean carmaker, the Long-Range edition will deliver a range of up to 600km on the WLTP cycle. The batteries, sourced from LG Chem, operate on a 400V system, allowing a 31-minute charging time for 10-80% capacity.
EV3 Exterior Design
The EV3 bears a striking resemblance to the flagship EV9, appearing as a smaller version. At the front, Kia’s ‘star map’ LED lighting design surrounds the ‘tiger nose’ grille, incorporating both horizontal and vertical LED elements.
The bonnet features a sweeping design, while the bumper is adorned with robust cladding, enhancing its muscular appearance.
Kia claims that the gently sloping roofline and prominent rear spoiler contribute to enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. Similarly, the aero-optimized wheels with their unique block-like design aid in improving aerodynamics.
The EV3’s dimensions stand at 4,300mm in length, 1,850mm in width, and 1,560mm in height, with a wheelbase measuring 2,680mm, comparable to that of a Hyundai Creta.
EV3 Interior and Features
Similar to the EV9, the dashboard layout consists of paired 12.3-inch floating infotainment screens and a series of haptic buttons.
Additionally, there are navigation and media control buttons. Notably, the 30-inch widescreen setup, which incorporates a 5-inch display for climate controls, and its software are directly inherited from the EV9.
Kia claims that they used a variety of sustainable materials for the upholstery. For example, the use of recycled PET bottles for the seats and roof lining. Additionally, the usage of biowaste in the paint and dashboard. Also, the exterior cladding incorporates plastic sourced from previous Kia models.
In terms of features, the EV3 boasts a 12-inch heads-up display, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and a comprehensive ADAS package. Notably, it also introduces Kia’s first personal AI assistant. Additionally, it offers a spacious 460-litre trunk and an extra 25-litre front trunk for storage.
Wrapping Up
Kia plans to introduce the EV3 in July in Korea, with a global rollout scheduled to occur gradually. Additionally, the brand has announced that the EV3 will debut in Asia in 2025. It aims to set the price of the EV3 between $35,000 and $50,000.
Currently, there hasn’t been any official confirmation regarding the potential release of the EV3 in the Indian market.
