Kia recently introduced the EV3 compact electric SUV, adding to its lineup of electric vehicles. The EV3 features a modern design with a 371-mile range and an AI assistant to assist with driving tasks. The vehicle has a squared, stubby body with vertical headlights and a unique interpretation of Kia’s Tiger Face grille. The profile includes a sloping roofline and a tailgate with black trim surrounding the taillights. The EV3 comes in nine colors, including two specifically created for it.
With a length of 169 inches, the EV3 is slightly smaller than the compact Kia Niro and runs on the Electric Global Modular Platform using the company’s fourth-generation battery technology. The EV3 Standard model comes with a 58.3 kWh battery, while the Long Range version has an 81.4 kWh battery. The motor delivers 201 horsepower and 208 pound-feet of torque, allowing for a 7.5-second sprint to 62 miles per hour. The interior features sustainable materials like recycled plastics and fabrics, ambient lighting, and a two-tiered luggage compartment with 16.2 cubic feet of space.
In a market where many SUVs have high price tags, the EV3 aims to provide a smaller SUV with good range and a lower MSRP to attract buyers looking for an affordable EV option. The vehicle includes screens such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 5-inch air-conditioning panel, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It also offers streamable content and arcade-style video games in some regions. Drive modes can be selected via the steering wheel with shortcuts to navigation and other functions.
The electric Volvo EX30, priced at $35,000, is a close competitor to the EV3 while the Polestar 2 is longer and costs $49,900 before tax credits. Kia plans to introduce the EV3 first in Korea in July 2024, followed by a release in Europe later in the year. The company intends to expand sales of the EV3 to other regions, including North America, by 2026. Pricing for the EV3 has yet to be announced, and specifications may be adjusted for the North American market. Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and seeking connections in the pursuit of common ground.
