Kia has just shown off the new Kia EV3 worldwide. It's a small electric SUV with tech borrowed from the EV9. When it first came out, there were two options, a "Standard" and a "Long Range" version. The "Long Range" one claims to go up to 600 km on a single charge.

To give you an idea of its size, the Kia EV3 is about as long as the Smart #1, measuring exactly 4,300 mm. It's a bit wider than the Smart #1, at 1,850mm, and a tad taller, standing at 1,560 mm. However, its wheelbase is shorter than the Smart #1's, at 2,680 mm long. This means there's now a new player in the compact EV SUV category, competing with both the Smart #1 and the Volvo EX30.



The Kia EV3 shares its design philosophy with the EV9 and EV5, embracing the "opposites united" concept. Kia highlights the EV3's unique interpretation of their signature "Tiger Face" design. Underneath, it rides on the E-GMP front-wheel-drive platform.

The design philosophy of the Kia EV3 is aligned with that of the EV9 and EV5, emphasizing the concept of "opposites united." Kia emphasizes the EV3's distinct take on their iconic "Tiger Face" design. Underneath, it utilizes the E-GMP front-wheel-drive platform.

A unique feature debuting with the EV3 is the i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking system, a first for Kia. It grants drivers the ability to tailor the regenerative braking to suit their preferences, enhancing the ease of one-pedal driving.



Regarding the battery, the EV3 offers two sizes tailored to its variants, featuring the 4th-gen Kia battery tech. The Standard model houses a 58.3 kWh battery, while the Long Range version packs an 81.4 kWh battery. Kia has disclosed an estimated WLTP range of 600 km for the Long Range variant.

Information about charging is limited, with only approximate details about DC charging time and V2L capability provided. The EV3 is said to be capable of charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 31 minutes. Additionally, Kia asserts that the EV3 is the pioneer in its category to offer V2L functionality.



In the interior, the Kia EV3 aims to stay true to the Kia Concept EV3 revealed in October 2023. However, elements like the hexagonal steering wheel, bulky door armrests, hexagonal screen holder, and minimalist foot pedals have been replaced with designs better suited for production.

Yet, some innovative features from the Kia Concept EV3 persist, such as the center console with a sliding table and the spacious lower storage compartment capable of accommodating a backpack. An advantage of the EV3's cabin is the retention of physical buttons, providing tactile feedback to users.