What is the KIA EV3 worth at €40,990 compared to the Tesla Model Y?

KIA has unveiled the prices and features of its competitor to the Tesla Model Y, the EV3 SUV, which has a battery capacity of 81.4 kWh priced at €40,990.

In a sense, the absence of a bonus for the KIA EV3 serves as a good basis for understanding the electric market at the end of 2024. Now, a mainstream manufacturer producing in South Korea and not heavily subsidized like Chinese firms knows how to sell a mid-size electric SUV starting at €35,990… before discounts.

Unfortunately, all comparisons with the benchmark Tesla Model Y quickly come to a halt when examining the dimensions of the KIA EV3. Being 45 cm shorter, the interior space and the size of its front and rear trunks are incomparable. Therefore, one must downplay these two aspects and instead focus on price and range performance. And this is where the South Korean SUV scores significantly.

Technical Specifications

The KIA EV3 creates a new segment between a compact Renault Megane EV and the larger Tesla Model Y. Its exterior and interior design are frankly stunning, and we can now see how KIA has found its style. The focus is obviously on range and dynamic performance.

With a front motor producing 204 horsepower (150 kW), and a manageable weight of 1810 kg, acceleration is vigorous with 7.7 seconds to reach 100 km/h. The top speed is limited to 170 km/h, which is more than enough if one doesn’t want to prematurely drain the battery.

The capacity of this battery is thus 81.4 kWh in this Long Range version, ensuring 605 km in mixed driving and priced starting at €40,990… just like the Tesla Model Y. It should be noted that the first units are produced in South Korea and are therefore not eligible for the ecological bonus. If this price is too high, there is a “small” battery version of 58.3 kWh with a range of 436 km priced at €35,990. This is more than sufficient in 90% of everyday situations. Moreover, this battery also benefits from 400-volt technology that allows for charging power of up to 120 kW for quick stops on long trips.

Main Features

Conclusion

Until now, there was no mid-size SUV with a range exceeding 600 km for a price of €40,990 (still before systematic discounts). Therefore, this stunning KIA EV3 is a very successful entry point for long trips without hassle, especially since its charging speed overwhelmingly surpasses the competition. For the same price, the Tesla Model Y Propulsion offers only 455 km of range and much slower charging. The question will often arise today of whether to spend an additional €2000 to opt for the American version with Long Range Propulsion that can thank the ecological bonus of €4000. By 2025, this bonus is expected to drop to €3000, further benefiting the KIA EV3.

With a large battery, fast charging, and a competitive price, the KIA EV3 has everything going for it. Its only “drawback” compared to a Tesla Model Y will merely be the size of its trunk.

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