KIA EV3 Electric SUV Review

The new Kia EV3 is a midsize electric SUV, and this blog puts it through a series of tests to evaluate its driving experience, practicality, performance, and unique features. It’s a sleek-looking car with a modern front end and stylish lights, earning praise for its design. Inside, the mid-spec GT-line model feels well-equipped, offering a glimpse into its tech and comfort. This review explores how it stacks up in a competitive class, revealing both its strengths and shortcomings. KIA EV3 Electric SUV

KIA EV3 Electric SUV Review

Exterior Design Impressions 😎

The EV3’s exterior stands out, especially the front end with its sleek lights. It’s a nice-looking car, earning a seven out of ten for its midsize electric SUV styling. While not overly bold, it’s a win for this category, balancing modern aesthetics with practicality.

Interior and Space Concerns 🚗

The interior of the mid-spec GT-line feels loaded with kit. However, the rear seating is tighter than expected for a midsize family car. Knee room and headroom are limited, especially for taller passengers, with three adults finding it cramped. The boot, at 460 liters, is larger than most competitors, including underfloor storage. A small front boot adds extra utility.

Tech and Infotainment 📱

The EV3’s tech is impressive, with a clear, easy-to-use infotainment system and a digital driver’s display that cycles through menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. A unique QR code links to a webpage about eco-friendly, leather-free materials, though it feels like classic electric car doubly signaling. The climate control buttons are physical, but their display is awkwardly hidden behind the steering wheel.

Battery and Range 🔋

The entry-level EV3 has a 58 kWh battery, while higher trims, like the tested model, feature an 81 kWh pack, claiming 367 miles of range. Real-world testing averaged 3.1 miles per kWh, yielding about 252 miles, or 70% of the claimed range. Driving it aggressively dropped efficiency to 2.5 miles per kWh, reducing the range to 203 miles, or 55% of the claim. A £900 heat pump option, available only on top-spec models, could boost range by about 10% in cold conditions.

Performance and Driving 🛣️

The EV3, with 204 horsepower and front-wheel drive, achieves 0-60 mph in 7.79 seconds, slower than some rivals. Overtaking from 40 to 70 mph takes 6 seconds, and braking from 60 mph required 45 meters in suboptimal conditions, worse than expected. The suspension is smooth, but bumpy roads reveal some discomfort. Handling is adequate but not sporty, feeling floaty compared to sharper rivals. The turning circle of 10.4 meters and light steering make it easy to maneuver in town.

Pricing and Equipment 💰

Starting at £33,000, with the 81 kWh version at £40,000, the EV3 is competitively priced. Standard features include heated seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The mid-spec GT-line lacks blind-spot cameras but has robust safety kit, including auto-braking. Pop-out door handles and excessive beeps are minor annoyances, but fast windows, USB ports on seat sides, and a configurable steering wheel button add appeal.

Practicality and Comfort 🧳

The boot’s 460 liters, with a raised floor, proved practical, though fitting a child seat required moving the front seat forward, reducing front legroom. A sliding panel doubles as a tray for laptops or other uses. Materials feel premium, with soft-touch surfaces, though some plastics are harder in lower areas. Seats lack support, and cruising at 70 mph averages 70 dB, comparable to a dishwasher, with road noise noticeable.

Verdict and Comparisons 🏆

The Kia EV3 impresses with its design, tech, and boot space but falls short in rear seating, range efficiency, and driving dynamics. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen ID.3, Peugeot e-2008, Renault Megane, Smart #1, and Volvo EX30, it holds its own but doesn’t lead the pack. Its practicality and equipment make it a solid choice, though competitors offer sharper handling or more luxurious interiors.