The Kia EV3 Ready to Explode Onto the Compact SUV Market

The Korean automaker Kia’s latest 100% electric creation is full of great ambitions and is well-equipped to accomplish them.

Today, Kia revealed detailed specifications of the EV3, the brand’s new compact all-electric SUV. With dimensions similar to a Peugeot e-2008 or a Renault Mégane, it boldly enters a highly competitive market without hesitation or reproach.

This boxy SUV measures 4,300 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,560 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,680 mm. It is powered by an electric propulsion system based on Kia’s modular electric platform E-GMP and uses Kia’s fourth-generation battery technology. In its standard version, it is exclusively offered with a 58.3 kWh battery, while the long-range version features an 81.4 kWh battery. In the long-range version, the EV3 claims up to 600 km of range according to WLTP standards. The charging management system allows the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 31 minutes.

Both versions feature an electric motor of 150 kW (204 hp) / 283 Nm, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds with a top speed limited to 170 km/h. The Kia EV3 is the first model to feature Kia’s new regenerative braking system, i-Pedal 3.0, which allows drivers to adjust the energy recovery level during braking, enabling a one-pedal driving experience.

Kia aims to pamper passengers

The cabin is spacious and can accommodate five adult passengers. The center console includes a sliding tablet and storage space. The lower part can hold drinks, snacks, and even small bags, while electronic devices can be placed on the tablet, which also provides front seat occupants with a relaxation mode through seatback tilt adjustment. With a front trunk of 25 liters and a rear cargo space of 460 liters, the EV3 offers very generous cargo capacity for a vehicle of this size.

A large digital display of nearly 30 inches combines a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 5.3-inch climate control screen, and another 12.3-inch screen dedicated to the infotainment system. This display spans up to the center of the dashboard, allowing front passengers to access entertainment and navigation functions.

numerous streaming contents are available via the Premium Streaming service, which is based on LG’s automotive content platform powered by webOS. The experience is enhanced by a Harman Kardon audio system. Bi-directional charging (V2L) is of course included, allowing occupants to power various external electronic devices such as laptops, scooters, and electric bikes.

The Kia EV3 will initially be launched in South Korea in July 2024, followed by Europe in the second half of this year.