Kia EV3: Compact, Electric, and “Sustainable” and is Here Soon

The Kia EV3 promises to set a benchmark for compact electric SUVs. EV3 is packed with features to make it an instant favourite as well as being value for money. Designed for both European and Australian markets, the EV3 blends range, advanced tech, and a uniquely sustainable interior that is built on Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).

2024 has seen a deluge of new brands and many are aiming to dominate the same segment, small SUV. The main challengers are from China, and have been able to capitalise on the entry level market, the same one once courted by Kia. EV3, and indeed all of Kia’s EVs will be up against the likes of ZEEKR, XPENG, and Deepal. The latter draws strength from Inchcape, importer of Subaru, Foton and Peugeot. None of those can match EV3’s claimed range.

Range That’s Built for Real-Life Use

For a compact SUV, the EV3’s range impresses with 603 kilometres on a single charge, extending to 771 kilometres in city driving. This efficiency is enhanced by Kia’s i-Pedal and Regenerative Braking System, which allows “one-pedal” driving—perfect for stop-start city traffic. Aerodynamic features like the “boat-tail” rear design, active air flaps, and optimised underbody airflow also help stretch the range, making it equally capable in city, highway, or country driving.

Quick Charging and Power-Ready Options

The EV3’s 400V charging system can take the EV3 from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes, and a 15-minute charge provides an additional 200 kilometres. In Europe, Kia’s “Kia Charge” network supports over 800,000 charging points, making public charging plentiful. Beyond its own battery, the EV3’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature can power external devices as well as being prepped for Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid capabilities It will allow the EV3 to function as a backup power source or even contribute electricity back to the grid. The latter uses the battery which would otherwise stay idle much of the time and would provide a source of income as a grid stabiliser.

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ABOVE: 2025 Kia EV3

Sustainable, Spacious, and Stylish Interior

Inside, the EV3 feels more like a modern lounge than a car cabin. Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy blends a minimalist, functional dash with a fresh tech setup. A triple-screen panoramic display integrates a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch driver display, and a 5.3-inch climate control screen, ensuring all essential info is visible while keeping a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

EV3’s cabin uses materials like recycled PET fabrics, bioplastics, and even a boot liner made from ocean-sourced plastic, demonstrating Kia’s commitment to eco-conscious design. Collaborating with The Ocean Cleanup, Kia is repurposing ocean waste into EV3’s interior, setting a new standard in sustainable car production. The world-first thin HVAC system also boosts efficiency, enhances footwell space by six centimetres, and ensures top-notch climate control.

Technology for a Modern Driving Experience

The EV3’s tech suite goes well beyond the basics. New features include Kia’s In-Car Payment, which lets drivers pay for parking directly from the navigation screen, a convenience for city driving. Over-the-air updates keep the EV3’s software current, while the Digital Key 2.0 allows up to seven users to unlock and start the car with a smartphone or smartwatch. Kia Connect Store’s on-demand upgrade system allows for future software improvements, and an AI Assistant with ChatGPT offers driving tips, navigation help, and more, creating a user-friendly experience that feels like having a digital co-pilot.

Performance Tuned for Australian and European Roads

The EV3’s performance was optimised for European and Australian roads, offering precise steering and balanced stability in varied conditions. Kia’s suspension tuning provides a comfortable ride that also handles winding roads, making the EV3 a confident performer. Its suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) includes Highway Driving Assist 2 and Smart Cruise Control 2 among the long list of inclusions.

Eco-Friendly from the Inside Out

By 2030, Kia plans for 20% of the plastics in its vehicles to come from recycled sources, starting now with elements like the EV3’s recycled ocean plastic boot liner. Through a partnership with The Ocean Cleanup, Kia aims to remove nearly 500,000 kilograms of plastic from the Pacific, directly contributing to a cleaner environment.

An Ideal Fit for Australia’s Growing EV Market?

While currently available in Europe and the UK, the Kia EV3 is positioned for Australian roads albeit in a crowded market. With its excellent range, fast charging, and flexible power options, it offers the compact SUV space the best charging and warranty options, and is from an established maker.

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