Kia has recently revealed full details of the new Kia EV3, the company’s dedicated compact EV SUV. With its combination of bold design, innovative technology, and groundbreaking features, the EV3 sets new standards never before seen in the compact EV SUV sector.
Drawing on Kia’s advanced technology and customer-focused values of the brand’s larger, multi-award-winning EV9 SUV, the EV3 carves out its own identity. It brings a unique, immersive experience to the compact EV SUV sector. By significantly exceeding customers’ expectations, the EV3 will broaden its appeal and elevate the perception of EV SUVs.
“By providing groundbreaking design, an industry-leading electric drivetrain, and practical, innovative lifestyle solutions, the EV3 aims to extend Kia’s exceptional EV SUV experience to a wider audience. With a WLTP driving range of up to 600km and fast charging capability, the EV3 addresses common concerns about electric vehicles. It will reassure those who may have been hesitant to make the switch to electric mobility and will lead to the mass adoption of EVs.”
– Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia
Exterior Design: A bold and progressive statement
Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which harnesses the creative tension generated by the divergent values of nature and modernity to deliver a harmonious whole, was central to the formation of the Kia EV3’s progressive, dynamic, and dramatic design. The philosophy’s influence elevates the EV3’s emotional feel and ambiance, seamlessly combining dynamic aesthetics with thoughtful functionality.
“The EV3 embodies our design philosophy perfectly – a combination of playful design combined with thoughtful functionality. Though compact, the inspiring exterior envelops an open interior space that emphasizes restorative relaxation for every journey. Its future-facing aesthetic is further emboldened by the choice of daring colors; inside, the spacious cabin and the incorporation of new organic materials express a youthful sense of energy and playfulness.”
– Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design
The EV3 exudes a highly assertive presence. At the front, vertical headlamps positioned at the extremes of the clean-surface facial area contribute to the creation of a wide, ultra-confident stance. A sense of ample spatial volume combines with differentiated graphics and a muscular appearance that harmonizes with the entire body.
A new, robust interpretation of Kia’s iconic Tiger Face design incorporates the brand’s latest Star Map signature lighting concept. Arranged vertically, the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) further emphasize the Tiger Face design to project a highly confident character.
In profile, the EV3 projects an aura of exceptional strength, combined with a powerful impression of agility and dynamism. The long, sloping, sleek roofline seamlessly transitions into a hatchback-style tailgate, further portraying the highly technical body design. The dynamic silhouette and voluminous cabin deliver a spacious interior, while the unique interlocking volumes and graphics further accentuate its innovative nature.
The rear aspect completes the EV3’s high-tech form language and purposeful stance. The thick black trim line emphasizing the connection between the SUV’s sturdy C-pillar design and the dynamic roofline further enhances the vehicle’s sense of strength. The simplified, geometric rear lamp design seamlessly integrates with the rear glass, framing a futuristic tailgate design with a wide, technical, and sleek appearance inspired by the Tiger Face Star Map front lighting signature.
Kia offers the EV3 in nine body colors – two of which have been created exclusively for the new model: Aventurine Green and Terracotta.
Interior design: Nature-inspired aesthetic to enhance wellbeing
The EV3’s interior design offers a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates five people. Kia has created a highly functional and effective cabin that exudes an appealing living space-like ambiance, designed to be enjoyed by occupants on every journey and when the vehicle is charging.
An elegant center console incorporates a sliding table and storage area. The lower area can store drinks, snacks, and even small backpacks, while personal electronic items – such as laptops and tablets – can be placed on the table when the vehicle is stationary.
Along with multi-adjustable ambient lighting and ultra-comfortable seats, which incorporate a fold-back relaxation mode, the sliding table enables occupants to enjoy maximum relaxation when parked. With a 25-liter frunk and a 460-liter rear load capacity, the EV3 offers the largest luggage space in its class. The adjustable two-tier luggage board provides over 140mm of load height flexibility, making it practical for activities like family camping trips.
A near-30-inch widescreen display – including a 12.3-inch cluster, a five-inch air-conditioning panel, and another 12.3-inch AVN display – incorporates seamless touch operation of the climate control functionality and provides clear graphics and intuitive information to the driver. The screen also extends to the center of the dashboard, giving the front-seat passenger access to entertainment and navigation features.
Many of the EV3’s functions, including drive mode, cruise control, entertainment, and navigation, can be accessed and controlled by a simple touch of the steering wheel buttons. A seamless row of buttons below the central screen intuitively operates various functions like mapping, media, and vehicle system configuration.
Delivering new levels of innovative technology and digital connectivity
To complement the transformative experience provided by the living space-like interior, Kia has equipped the EV3 with a holistic suite of connectivity and entertainment features. Most of these are designed to be enjoyed safely while the vehicle is on the move, while others can be experienced exclusively when the car is stationary and Park is selected.
Kia provides various streamable content through its Premium Streaming service, delivered via LG’s Automotive Content Platform (ACP) powered by webOS. Kia also offers arcade games, allowing occupants to enjoy in-car gaming. The immersive experience is further enhanced by the sound quality of the EV3’s Harman Kardon audio system, which delivers an experience akin to a home cinema.
Kia’s global campaign for the EV3: ‘A moving power’
Kia is set to embark on a series of global campaign activities, encapsulated by the statement ‘a moving power.’ This statement speaks to the company’s commitment to innovation through cutting-edge design and technology, as well as its determination to expand its offering. The introduction of the EV3 will deliver more sustainable, efficient, and convenient mobility to enhance EV accessibility for all.
The EV3 will be introduced first in Korea in July 2024, followed by its European launch in the second half of the year. Kia has plans to further expand the sales of EV3 into other regions, with subsequent launches to be expected after the European market entry.
