2025 Kia EV3 Electric Car Revealed
By Jeff Gibbs
Kia has unveiled the 2025 EV3 electric SUV, set to launch in South Korea mid-year and arrive in Australia in early 2025. The EV3, the smallest model in Kia’s global electric lineup, promises a driving range of up to 600km and features dimensions comparable to a Kia Seltos or Hyundai Kona Electric.
Pricing and Market Positioning
While prices are yet to be confirmed, Kia CEO Ho-Sung Song indicated that the EV3 will be priced between $US35,000 and $US50,000, translating to approximately $AU52,500 to $AU75,000. Australian deliveries are expected to commence in 2025, with production taking place in South Korea.
Platform and Dimensions
The EV3 is built on a downsized version of the EV6 and EV9’s E-GMP electric-car platform. It features front-wheel drive and a 400-volt battery to reduce costs. Measuring 4300mm in length, 1850mm in width, and 1560mm in height, with a 2680mm wheelbase, the EV3 is slightly shorter but has a longer wheelbase than the Kia Seltos, maximising interior space.
Battery and Performance
In overseas markets, the EV3 offers two battery options: a 58.3kWh ‘Standard Range’ and an 81.4kWh ‘Long Range’, with the latter providing an estimated driving range of up to 600km. Both versions are powered by a 150kW/283Nm electric motor driving the front wheels. Kia claims a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 170km/h. A dual-motor all-wheel-drive version, including a GT high-performance variant, is also in the pipeline.
Charging and Efficiency
The EV3 can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in a claimed 31 minutes. It features a drag coefficient of 0.263Cd, aided by a “full 3D” underbody to improve aerodynamics. The new i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking system allows drivers to adjust the intensity of regenerative braking while in ‘one-pedal’ driving mode.
2025 Kia EV3 Interior
Design and Features
The EV3 retains much of the design from the concept unveiled last year, with boxy proportions and design cues from other new Kia electric vehicles. It includes vertically-oriented LED headlights with a ‘Star Map’ daytime-running light signature and tail-lights similar to the EV9. The GT-Line styling package adds sportier bumpers, unique alloy wheels, and body-coloured trim.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the EV3 borrows from the EV9 with a 12.3-inch instrument display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen running Kia’s latest ‘ccNC’ software. It supports over-the-air software updates, an AI-powered voice assistant, and an app store with downloadable display themes inspired by NBA teams. The EV3’s front seats have a ‘relaxation’ mode, and the centre console includes a slide-out table for placing laptops while charging.
Sustainability and Safety
The EV3 uses recycled fabric on the dashboard and door trims, and recycled PET plastic on seats, headliner, door armrest, floor mats, and boot floor. Advanced safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a highway driving assist system with adaptive cruise control and lane centring.
Market Launch and Production Goals
The 2025 Kia EV3 is set to launch in South Korea in July 2024, followed by a European market release in late 2024, and an Australian release in 2025. Kia aims to sell 200,000 EV3s annually, which would see it outsell the EV6 two-to-one based on 2023 sales figures.
Kia’s introduction of the EV3 is expected to make a significant impact in the Australian EV market, offering a competitive and affordable entry point for buyers transitioning to electric vehicles.
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