On Thursday, Kia debuted the impressive, yet diminutive EV3 subcompact crossover.
This vehicle signifies the commercial variant of a conceptual design presented last autumn, with its distinctive design elements accurately translated to the series model slated for a market introduction in Korea come July. An appearance on the European market is anticipated in the latter half of the year. Although Kia is considering additional markets, confirmation for a release in the U.S. is still pending.
Spanning only 169 inches in length, the EV3 surpasses the dimensions of the Kia Soul by approximately four inches, positioning it as Kia’s most compact electric offering to date. Comparable in proportions to the Volvo EX30 and the freshly unveiled Mini Aceman, the EV3 also manages to incorporate an abundance of features within its scaled-down stature.
The E-GMP infrastructure, a versatile foundation shared with the EV6 and EV9, as well as select Hyundai and Genesis models, underpins the EV3. The entry-level grade is powered by a 58.3-kwh battery unit, with the extended Long Range variant equipped with a 81.4-kwh battery. Each version utilizes a solo electric motor with a 201 hp rating, achieving 0-62 mph in roughly 7.5 seconds and a maximum velocity of 105 mph.
Innovative Kia EV3
Kia boasts that the larger battery delivers a 372-mile journey potential as per the WLTP testing standard used abroad. This figure is anticipated to exceed 300 miles according to the EPA standard, assisted by a relatively modest drag coefficient (for an elevated crossover) of 0.263. The automaker asserts that replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% should require a mere 31 minutes using a DC rapid-charging station.
The EV3’s outer aesthetics are inspired by the bold design elements of the EV9, whereas internally, designers have elected to include a prevailing modern dashboard featuring a consolidated display panel, which hosts distinct digital interfaces for both the gauge readouts and the multimedia setup.
Both digital displays within the EV3 measure 12.3 inches, with Kia intending to allow for personalization through downloadable interface themes and steaming content options, particularly beneficial during charging intermissions. Additionally, the vehicle incorporates a generative AI-driven vocal command system and a 12.0-inch head-up display for augmented driving engagement.
Following the release of the electric compact crossover model EV5 in China, Kia is moving ahead with a roadmap that could include up to 14 electric models in its international range by the year 2027. The lineup anticipates the introduction of a compact hatch identified as the EV4 and an electric pickup truck destined for the U.S. market.
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