The Kia EV3 marks the brand’s smallest SUV footprint yet delivers an outsized electric range and a compelling package for those seeking practicality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in the growing EV market.
Stylistically, the EV3 is clearly modeled after its larger sibling, the EV9, echoing its bolder, boxy stance but in a more compact form. The front fascia features a standout Kia emblem (now sometimes referred to as KN due to the new logo), sleek LED lights, and slim DRLs, all optimised for aerodynamics, leading to a low drag coefficient (Cd) of about 0.28, impressive for this segment.
In the New Zealand market, the lineup includes the entry-level Light (with a smaller battery), a Long Range version, Earth, and GT Line trims. Pricing starts in the mid-to-late $50k, aiming to make long-range EVs more accessible to everyday users and fleets – my review model was the lower spec but with the whopping long range battery.
Even the base EV3 boasts very competitive specs. The headline figure is a staggering ~600 km of range for the long-range model, with over 400 km for lower trims. Real-world efficiency is strong, we averaged about 14 kWh/100 km and sometimes better, approaching “petrol and diesel territory” for efficiency, which is outstanding for an EV. Acceleration clocks in at approximately 7.7 seconds (0–100 km/h), which, while not “blisteringly fast” by modern EV standards, is comparable to sporty hatchbacks of previous eras. Vehicle-to-load capabilities (such as powering small appliances) is also included—a versatile feature for work, road or camping trips.
The EV3’s interior leans heavily on functionality. Materials are basic, dominated by hard gray plastics and minimal soft-touch trim, more in line with commercial/fleet priorities than luxury-seeking buyers. Despite its compact 4.3-metre frame, the car feels very spacious inside, comfortably seating four (or even squeezing in a fifth). There’s ample headroom, though some passengers may find the rear overhang a bit intrusive when entering or exiting the back seats.
Technology-wise, the dash borrows from the EV9: a 30-inch panoramic display split into three sections—infotainment, a fixed climate control strip, and a digital driver’s cluster. The infotainment screen is responsive, intuitive, and offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a practical array of shortcuts. The digital display delivers extensive EV-specific telemetry, including remaining range and power use by various systems.
Don’t let the EV3’s compact SUV label or minimalist trim fool you — behind the wheel, this thing genuinely surprises. With 150 kW of power and reasonable sprint times, it’s easy to be a bit dismissive on paper, but in the real world, it pulls away briskly and confidently, making everyday driving feel effortless.
What really stands out is the car’s duality: it’s fast AND frugal. This long-range version claims up to 600 km of range on a full charge, which puts it well ahead of most rivals in this price bracket.
Despite a relatively simple interior (some panels feel like a scratchy Airfix model kit), the EV3 offers surprising comfort. It sits well on the road and glides over New Zealand’s rougher surfaces thanks to chunky 17-inch Giti tires, tuned suspension, and well-thought-out ride dynamics. It’s been calibrated specifically for our roads, and it shows: gravel, undulations, and coarse-chip seal are soaked up without drama. The result? A notably quiet and composed cabin.
Steering feel (as with many modern EVs), is where things get a bit muted. There’s a definite disconnect between what the wheels are doing and what you’re feeling through the wheel, but it still offers precise enough turn-in for daily driving. If you’re after razor-sharp feedback, this won’t thrill you, but for comfort and long-haul usability, it’s a trade-off that makes sense.
Visibility is excellent all around, making urban driving and parking a breeze, and the small footprint helps here too. It’s genuinely compact on the outside, but impressively spacious inside.
Noise insulation is another strong suit. You don’t have to shout to your passenger, and road noise is nicely suppressed, again aided by those well-chosen tires and insulation. Even with this ‘basic’ trim, this creates a calm, easygoing driving experience that should appeal to commuters, families, and fleets alike.
From a business or fleet perspective, the EV3 makes a strong case for itself, long range, low running costs, roomy interior, and solid comfort. If you’re looking for flair or luxury, you might be disappointed in the trim, but Kia has thought of that too. Higher-spec models like the Earth and GT-Line trims add touches like a full sunroof, head-up display, upgraded seats, and a more premium feel, topping out at around $75K for the fully loaded GT-Line.
In short, the EV3 drives with quiet confidence. It’s not trying to be flashy, but it is smart, efficient, and surprisingly engaging. For an everyday electric SUV, it hits a very sweet spot between performance, practicality, and price.
