Video: Kia’s smallest EV making a big impression

Kia has officially introduced the EV3 compact electric SUV into the New Zealand market—and the company is treating it as a significant launch.

In fact, Kia invited around 75 representatives from major fleet operators and industry insiders to experience and drive the new vehicle at a special event near Auckland.

The EV3 replaces Kia’s popular Niro EV, slotting into what Kia claims is the strongest EV lineup available today. This extensive range now includes the EV3, EV5 (our EV of the year!), EV6, and EV9 SUVs, with the EV4 sedan set to launch soon and the PV5 van lineup arriving later this year.

The Kia EV3 offers two battery choices: the Standard Range (SR) model features a 58.3kWh lithium-ion battery delivering up to 436km range, while Long Range (LR) variants get an 81.4kWh battery providing up to 605km of range (WLTP). Charging times vary by battery and charger type; SR models reach 10–80% in approximately 29 minutes on a 100kW DC fast charger, whereas LR versions achieve the same charge in around 31 minutes using a faster 128kW charger.

AC charging at home takes about 5 hours 20 minutes (SR) or 7 hours 15 minutes (LR) on an 11kW wallbox.

Variety of versions

The Kia EV3 range kicks off at $55,520 for the entry-level Light SR (Standard Range), offering cloth upholstery, manual seating adjustment, and 17-inch alloys. At $62,990, the Light LR (Long Range) extends driving range and retains the same comfort features.

The $69,220 Earth LR steps up significantly, introducing composite leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, power-adjustable driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, larger 19-inch wheels, privacy glass, and advanced driver assistance such as Surround View Monitor and Remote Smart Park Assist.

The range-topping GT-Line LR, priced at $75,220, adds luxurious ventilated and premium relaxation front seats, a sliding console table, ambient interior lighting, power-operated tailgate, Harman/Kardon premium sound, distinctive cube-style LED headlights, and dynamic welcome lighting. Safety across the range is robust, with all variants featuring Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Highway Driving Assist, and e-Call emergency response as standard, plus Kia Connect for over-the-air software updates.

All EV3 variants come with Kia’s new seven-year, 150,000km warranty, the longest yet offered by the brand. Deliveries in New Zealand are set to begin in April this year.

Compact yet roomy

We tested the Light LR version—see our video below. Despite its compact dimensions, it offers remarkable interior space, with excellent ride quality and refinement. Build quality feels solid, though hard plastics are noticeable. On a positive note, the interior incorporates recycled and bio-based materials extensively.

Practicality hasn’t been forgotten, with a compact yet useful 25-litre front trunk (frunk), suitable for charging cables and smaller personal items.

Kia positions the EV3 as a “baby EV9,” borrowing advanced technology from its flagship EV9 SUV, including a panoramic display and selective frequency dampers for enhanced ride quality—making high-end features more widely accessible.

Importantly, the Kia EV3 is also the first Kia EV in New Zealand backed by a seven-year comprehensive warranty, limited to 150,000km, demonstrating Kia’s confidence in its latest EV.

Additionally, it uniquely includes a vehicle-to-load adaptor as standard, offering a 240-volt, 16amp output. Another 230-volt outlet is conveniently placed beneath the rear seat.

More variants, including an all-wheel-drive and a performance-focused GT model, are expected soon, along with detailed specifications nearer to launch.

Kia anticipates the first customer deliveries of the EV3 starting in April.