Production-spec EV3 SUV from Kia will most likely mimic the concept showcased a few months ago.
The upcoming Kia EV3 SUV, the Korean brand’s entry-level born EV, will debut globally on May 23. Kia has confirmed this development and released some teaser images of the production-spec EV3. The EV3 was shown as a concept last year, and the snapshots confirm that the production car would closely mirror that concept. The vehicle will feature boxy, angular lines reminiscent of the flagship EV9 that sits atop Kia’s growing range of bespoke EVs; its wheels will be pushed towards the corners to extend the wheelbase and maximise interior space.
- EV3 to use 400V architecture, compared to the 800V EV6 and EV9
- Entry-level EV3 could get 218hp front-mounted motor
- Kia Clavis-based EV coming in 2025
The images focus on the front and rear lights, showcasing that the EV3 will closely follow the concept and adopt Kia’s Star Map lighting, along with a new interpretation of its ‘Tiger Face’ front end.
Kia EV3 shares E-GMP platform with EV6, EV9
Like the larger Kia SUVs, the EV6 and EV9, the EV3 will use the Hyundai Motor Group’s bespoke electric E-GMP platform, which should support various powertrains and battery sizes. As a result, front-driven entry-level models could offer 218hp. The platform uses a 400V electrical architecture, compared with the 800V one for EV6 and EV9, which means that charging speeds will be slower but will help to reduce the costs.
Kia EV3: will it come to India?
Kia India has not given any confirmation on this. The full-size and much more premium EV9 three-row born EV SUV is expected to be launched in the country this year. The company is readying an entry-level EV, based on the Clavis compact SUV, for the Indian market. The Clavis EV will go on sale here sometime next year.
Also see:
Kia EV6 facelift teased ahead of world premiere
Kia Sonet crosses 4 lakh sales milestone