Review of the Kia EV3

The all-new Kia EV3 has arrived, offering a compelling blend of style, efficiency, and practicality for those seeking an electric vehicle. As the latest addition to Kia's expanding EV lineup, the EV3 stands out with its sleek design, impressive range, and an array of modern features that make it a strong contender in the competitive electric vehicle segment.

Rivals to the Kia EV3 include the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric and Volkswagen ID.3.

Our Kia EV3 review covers:

• Bold and thoughtful design with a robust yet sophisticated presence
• Spacious and flexible interior with practicality in mind
• 81.4kWh battery capacity with a range of up to 372 miles on a single charge
• You get 460 litres of boot space
• Three trim levels are available: Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S

Pros:

• Advanced technology
• Impressive electric range
• Modern and spacious interior

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Not the fastest to charge
• Rear doors don't open very wide

The Kia EV3 showcases a bold, modern design. The exterior has clean lines and a dynamic silhouette, which not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also enhances its aerodynamic efficiency. The front end features a sleek, closed-off grille and sharp LED headlights that give the EV3 a modern look. This design of the vehicle is both robust and refined.

When it comes to practicality, the Kia EV3 is designed to meet the needs of modern drivers. The cabin is spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable choice for families or those who frequently travel with passengers. The layout of the interior has been thoughtfully designed to maximise storage space, with numerous compartments throughout the cabin. The materials used are not only premium but also eco-friendly, reflecting Kia's commitment to sustainability.

Boot space in the Kia EV3 is one of its strong suits, particularly when considering its compact SUV dimensions. With all seats in place, the EV3 offers a respectable 460 litres of boot space, ideal for daily errands or weekend getaways. For those occasions when you need more room, the rear seats can be folded down to increase the load capacity, accommodating larger items with ease.

Stepping inside the Kia EV3, you're immediately greeted by a sleek, minimalist design that prioritises both comfort and functionality. The cabin is spacious and airy, with high-quality materials used throughout. Sustainability is at the heart of the EV3's design, with many surfaces and components made from recycled and eco-friendly materials.

The focal point of the interior is the dual 12.3-inch display screens, which seamlessly integrate the infotainment system with vehicle information. These screens provide everything from navigation and media control to real-time vehicle data, all accessible via touch or voice commands. The layout is ideal, ensuring that all controls are within easy reach, making the driving experience both safe and enjoyable.

In addition to the large screens, the EV3 also features a 5-inch climate control panel, allowing control over the cabin temperature. The inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures that you stay connected, while the high-quality sound system (upgraded in higher trims) offers an immersive audio experience.

Three trim levels are available: Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S.

Air

The entry-level trim, ‘Air,’ provides an excellent balance of essential features and value. It includes the dual 12.3-inch display system, wireless smartphone integration, and a comfortable interior with sustainable materials. The Air trim is perfect for those looking to enter the world of electric driving without compromising on quality or technology.

GT-Line

The GT-Line adds a sporty edge to the EV3, featuring upgraded interior materials and enhanced technology. This trim includes two-tone artificial leather upholstery, a wireless phone charger, and additional USB-C ports for both front and rear passengers. The exterior is also enhanced with sporty design cues, making it stand out on the road.

GT-Line S

The top-of-the-range GT-Line S trim is where luxury meets performance. It features front premium relaxation seats, an upgraded Harman Kardon 8-speaker audio system, and customisable ambient lighting that adds a touch of sophistication to the cabin. The GT-Line S also comes with advanced safety features like a 360° Surround View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist, making it the most equipped option in the EV3 lineup.

The Kia EV3 is equipped with the latest in electric powertrain technology, delivering efficiency and performance. The vehicle is powered by a choice of two battery options:

• Standard Range 58.3 kWh Battery: This version of the EV3 is perfect for urban commuting and shorter journeys, providing enough power to handle daily driving with ease. The electric motor generates 201 bhp, delivering smooth acceleration and responsive performance that makes city driving a breeze.
• Long Range 81.4 kWh Battery: For those who require more range and power, the long-range version is ideal. It also offers 201 bhp but comes with an extended range, allowing for up to 372 miles on a single charge. This makes it suitable for longer trips, reducing the need for frequent charging stops

Both battery options are paired with a single-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and uninterrupted driving experience.

The driving experience in the Kia EV3 is designed to be both comfortable and engaging. The low centre of gravity, a result of the battery placement, enhances stability and handling, making the EV3 feel planted and secure even on winding roads.

The vehicle features adjustable regenerative braking, which allows you to control the level of energy recovery during braking. This system also contributes to a smoother driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, by allowing for one-pedal driving using the i-Pedal system, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop without the need to use the brake pedal.

The Kia EV3 comes with multiple driving modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport. These modes allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their preference or the driving conditions, enhancing both efficiency and driving enjoyment. The inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems like Highway Driving Assist 2.0 and Lane Follow Assist adds to the ease and safety of driving, especially on longer journeys.

The Kia EV3 is now available for purchase at a starting on-the-road price of Price On Request*, or it can be leased with monthly payments starting from £381.31.

If you're considering leasing a Kia EV3, we proudly offer excellent car leasing services in the UK. Our leasing deals include a manufacturer's warranty, road tax, breakdown insurance, and free delivery to most areas of the UK mainland (excluding specific regions).

Leasing a Kia EV3 can often be a more financially advantageous option compared to purchasing outright, thanks to the fixed monthly payments, variable mileage options, low initial rental, and flexible contract durations.

It's important to note that the 'on-the-road' price mentioned includes a year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee, and a number plate fee. Please be aware that this price is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change. To get the most up-to-date information, we recommend contacting your nearest retailer.