Kia EV3 Brings Big-Car Tech and Range to the Compact EV Market…

Graham Baalham-Curry

• 4 min read
Kia EV3 Brings Big-Car Tech and Range to the Compact EV Market…

When it comes to battery powered SUV’s there is no shortage of them, especially from Korean maker Kia. But can their latest compact SUV, the EV3 stand out amidst an electrifying sea?

As the smallest Kia electric vehicle, the EV3 sits beside bigger siblings such as the EV4, EV5, EV6 (and GT), EV9 (and GT), as well as the PV5 Cargo and PV5 Passenger vans.

Kia’s all‑new EV3 positions itself as one of the most compelling new EVs in the segment thanks to its up to 375‑mile range, advanced technology package and competitive pricing. The EV3 brings many of the premium features of Kia’s award‑winning EV6 and EV9 into a smaller, more affordable format, while retaining the brand’s focus on efficiency, space and sustainability.

A New Benchmark for Compact Electric SUVs

Kia describes the EV3 as “a dedicated, high‑volume EV for the compact SUV market” offering a segment‑leading range of up to 375 miles on a single charge. Extensive European testing has ensured the car performs equally well on motorways, city streets and winding country roads, while aerodynamic optimisation has contributed to it becoming one of the most efficient EVs on the market.

Inside, the cabin, though very cheap feeling in my view on the ‘Air’ model as tested and pictured, is designed to be spacious and lounge‑like, supported by Kia’s long‑wheelbase E‑GMP platform and completely flat EV architecture, offering comfort in both seating rows. Premium options include relaxation seats, a panoramic dual‑screen cockpit and a wide array of sustainable materials aligned with Kia’s “10 sustainability must‑haves” program.

Bold Design and Signature Kia Styling

The exterior showcases the brand’s latest Digital Tiger Face, accompanied by striking vertical ‘Star Map’ LED headlamps inspired by constellation lines. Depending on trim, customers can choose between 17‑ or 19‑inch alloy wheels, with flush pop‑out door handles fitted to GT‑Line models for a high‑tech aesthetic.

Seven UK colours are available, including the eye‑catching Pistachio Green and as pictured, the stunningly beautiful Frost Blue.

Powertrains, Range and Charging

All EV3 models use a 201 bhp front‑wheel‑drive electric motor delivering 283 Nm of torque. Two battery sizes are available:

  • 58.3 kWh (Air Standard Range) – up to 270 miles combined
  • 81.4 kWh (Air Long Range / GT‑Line / GT‑Line S) – up to 375 miles combined or 479 miles WLTP city

Charging performance is strong thanks to Kia’s 400V fast‑charging system, delivering 10–80% in 29 minutes (58.3 kWh) or 31 minutes (81.4 kWh).

The EV3 also introduces Kia’s latest innovations including i‑Pedal one‑pedal driving, a Regeneration Braking System, and full bi‑directional charging capability (Vehicle‑to‑Load, Vehicle‑to‑Home and Vehicle‑to‑Grid) rolling out across Europe.

Safety and Technology

Every EV3 comes equipped with an extensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including:

  • Highway Driving Assist 2.0 with Hands‑on Detection
  • Blind‑Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
  • Forward Collision‑Avoidance Assist 2.0
  • Lane Follow Assist 2.0 and Lane Keep Assist
  • Seven airbags including centre side airbag

Inside, the EV3 features Kia’s triple‑screen panoramic dashboard with twin 12.3‑inch displays and a dedicated 5.3‑inch climate control touch panel. The car also debuts Kia In‑Car Payment, allowing drivers to pay for parking directly through the infotainment system.

Connectivity is further enhanced by Digital Key 2.0, OTA updates and video streaming capability, with Kia’s AI Assistant (ChatGPT‑powered) arriving via OTA update soon after launch.

UK Model Range and Price

According to Kia UK’s official pricing guide, the EV3 range starts at £33,055 OTR and extends to £43,955 OTR depending on specification.

UK Pricing (OTR)

  • EV3 Air – 58.3 kWh: £33,055
  • EV3 Air – 81.4 kWh: £36,055
  • EV3 GT‑Line – 81.4 kWh: £39,455
  • EV3 GT‑Line S – 81.4 kWh: £43,055
  • GT‑Line S with Heat Pump: £43,955

This pricing places the EV3 competitively against rivals such as the Volvo EX30, MG ZS EV and Renault Megane E‑Tech.

Specifications Snapshot

Performance & Range

  • Power: 201 bhp
  • Torque: 283 Nm
  • 0–62 mph: 7.5–7.9 seconds depending on battery
  • Max speed: 105 mph
  • Range: 270–375 miles WLTP combined

Boot space

  • 460 – 1,250 litres (rear seats folded)
  • Additional 25‑litre frunk

Conclusion

With its combination of long‑range capability, forward‑thinking technology and sustainability‑focused design, the new Kia EV3 looks set to become one of the most influential compact electric SUVs on the market. Competitive UK pricing, a generous equipment list and Kia’s trusted seven‑year warranty make it one of the strongest propositions for drivers transitioning to electric.

Model Tested

After a week spent driving the EV3 Air – 81.4 kWh which comes in at £36,705 with it’s optional paint finish, this compact Kia proved to offer all that it says on the tin. One thing I did feel was its obesity, needing to use the regenerative baking to assist normal braking a lot more than in most EV’s.

Warranty

7-year/100,000-mile warranty

8-year/100,000-mile battery/electric motor warranty

12-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation warranty

5-year/100,000-mile paint warranty

1-year Kia roadside assistance

Service intervals
24 months/20,000 miles