Today, Kia has unveiled the details of the new EV3, a compact electric SUV, for the world premiere. With a combination of bold design, innovative technology and cutting-edge equipment, the new model sets, according to the Korean company, standards never seen before in the compact electric SUV segment. It will be introduced first in Korea, in July this year, followed by its launch in Europe starting in the second half of 2024.
It arrives with the aim of extending Kia’s electric driving experience to a wider audience and making zero-emission mobility more accessible. The new EV3 forges its own identity based on the advanced technology of the EV9 SUV, the largest of the brand, providing – in the words of its managers – higher values and a perception of compact electric SUVs that exceeds the expectations of what that is expected from a vehicle of its class.
The EV3 measures 430 centimeters long, 185 cm wide, 156 cm high and has a wheelbase of 268 cm. It is equipped with a next-generation front-wheel drive electric propulsion system, based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), with Kia’s fourth-generation battery technology.
In the standard version it is offered exclusively with a 58.3 kWh battery, while the EV3 Long Range variant is equipped with an 81.4 kWh battery that allows it to achieve a range of up to 600 km (WLTP) and thanks to the advanced Kia’s Vehicle Charging Management System allows you to go from 10 to 80% capacity in approximately 31 minutes. In both versions, the electric motor generates 150 kW and 283 Nm, which enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The maximum speed of the EV3 is 170 km/h.
Visually it radiates a very firm presence. At the front, vertical headlights located at the ends of a clean surface contribute to creating a feeling of spaciousness and a muscular, harmonized appearance throughout the body.
The new interpretation of Kia’s iconic Tiger Face design now features the brand’s modern Star Map lighting signature concept. Arranged vertically, the daytime running lights further emphasize the strength of its image while the long, elegant roofline together with a sloping tailgate reflect the dynamic silhouette of its body and project a powerful impression of agility and dynamism.
The rear complements the technological formal language and futuristic presence of the EV3 with a thick black stripe, highlighting the connection between the robust C-pillar design and the roof. The simple and geometric design of the rear lights integrates perfectly with the quadrangular shapes of the vehicle, while the triangular fins on the bumper produce an equally energetic effect.
The interior configuration of the EV3 is spacious and has the capacity to accommodate 5 people in a functional cabin. With a 25-litre front boot and a 460-litre rear boot, the EV3 offers the largest cargo capacity in its class and is also adjustable on two levels, providing over 140mm of variation in loading height.
The nearly 30-inch (76 cm) widescreen display consists of a 12.3” (31 cm) cluster, a 5” (13 cm) panel for climate control, and another 12.3” AVN display. This assembly allows touch control of climate functions and extends to the center of the dashboard, giving the front passenger access to entertainment and navigation functions.
And like every new Kia, the EV3 is equipped with various elements to accelerate sustainability at scale. Recycled fabric is used on the dashboard and door trim, while PET, a type of plastic that is easier to recycle, is present in numerous areas of the interior, such as the seats, the headliner, the door armrests, the trim, the mats or the trunk.
