Kia has officially debuted its latest electric vehicle in NZ, the EV3, marking a significant step in making advanced EV technology more accessible to a wider audience in New Zealand. Positioned as a “baby EV9,” the EV3 brings cutting-edge features from Kia’s flagship EV models into a compact and affordable package, with prices starting at $55,520 for the standard range model and $62,220 for the long-range option. It also features a groundbreaking seven-year warranty. Is this a first of its kind for an electric vehicle in New Zealand?
The EV3 is equipped with fourth-generation NCM battery technology sourced from LG, available in two capacities: a 58.3 kWh standard-range battery offering a driving range of up to 436 km and an 81.4 kWh long-range battery with a range of up to 605 km (WLTP) . The vehicle also supports fast charging, taking approximately 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% using an ultra-fast DC charger (128 kW for the long-range variant and 100 kW for the standard range). Sustainability remains a priority (inside and out), plus a focus on aerodynamics, including a high 79.1% underbody coverage ratio, reducing drag and enhancing efficiency.
In terms of design, the EV3 blends sophistication with practicality. Inspired by the larger EV9, it features distinct athletic styling for a sleek, modern appearance. Inside, the EV3 includes premium technological features typically found in larger models, such as a massive panoramic display, clever storage solutions, and a standard head-up display (HUD) from the Earth trim upwards. The car balances advanced functionality with affordability, offering high-tech features to a broader market.
Functionality is further enhanced by standard internal and external V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capabilities, enabling users to power appliances like refrigerators and televisions directly from their vehicle. Advanced online connectivity through Kia Connect is included, offering five years of free access and over-the-air updates for everything from infotainment systems to security features.
Safety is another highlight, with the EV3 incorporating features from the EV9 to ensure no compromise in this compact vehicle, including advanced driver-assist systems expected to secure a five-star safety rating . Its carefully tuned dynamics, such as frequency-selective damping, ensure confident handling and a refined driving experience tailored to New Zealand’s unique road conditions.
With a myriad of fleet managers chomping at the bit to drive it too, our time with the new Kia EV3 was, let’s say ‘limited’, however, what it did highlight was its overall driving performance. Kia say that it’s been ‘locally-tuned’ (which generally means across the ditch) but the result shows. It feels more substantial on the road than its compact size would have you believe and picks up off the mark with vigour – even spins its wheels a little. For those keen on the stats, regardless of the current model line-up, the EV3 has a maximum power of 150 kW and maximum torque comes in at 283 Nm. The steering feels well-weighted (albeit a little removed from the world below) and it corners with ‘plucky’ confidence.
The aforementioned emphasis on modern safety meant that there were MANY chirps and bings telling me that my driving was less than what it expected of me (I’m sure they can be reduced or silenced), but to many, these will do their diving aid function well.
With its award-winning features, including nominations for the 2025 World Car of the Year, the Kia EV3 showcases how innovation and value can coexist. This “humble yet high-tech” EV exemplifies Kia’s commitment to creating accessible and sustainable mobility solutions.
The EV3 is the replacement for the Niro EV and can simply be summarised as a baby EV9 (which is by no means and bad thing), but it targets a wider audience. The whole idea is that Kia wants more customers to enjoy these latest technologies without paying too much money – basically giving them the best bang for the buck.
