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Kia EV3 ‘Air’. Credit: Kia
Kia’s first EV was launched in 2009, and the Kia Soul only had a 209km/130 mile range. It was sold by a few Kia dealers. Kia has become one of the leading manufacturers of EVs. The number of EVs you see on the road shows just how popular these vehicles have become among eco-conscious motorists.
The Korean automaker’s design has become one of most distinctive on the roads. It is a welcome sight amidst a sea similar vehicles.
Kia has a distinctive style, and the EV3 still retains some of that. The EV3 is a replacement to the Soul. Its cubical looks conceal a surprisingly luxurious interior.
A three trim model line-up – Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S – makes things simple and there is a standard range 58kwh battery and a longer range 81kwh version. All models include auto lights and wipers as standard, along with heated front seats, heated steering wheel and powered heated and folding mirrors.
Priced from €37,518/£33,005 the standard range Air model will carry you for around 270 miles, although in real world driving probably 320-350km/200-220 miles. Although some people complain about the range stated by manufacturers, they are really no different than the MPG figures for ICE vehicles, as it is all ideal world test.
An additional €3,410/£3,000 gets you the larger 81kwh Air model which adds a likely 100 additional miles to your range and standard equipment remains unchanged from the lead-in model. In addition to the usual rear boot, you get a smaller but still useful ‘frunk’ and occupants fare well inside the EV3 with very decent space and a nice airy feel to the interior.
On the road, the EV3 is refined and smooth. It also handles the appallingly poor road surfaces which seem to be prevalent throughout the country very well. The EV3 will never be an impressive performance car, but it still provides the instant acceleration that EV drivers love. It’s great for accelerating past slower traffic. In an ICE, you might hesitate to do the same thing.
The EV3 has excellent build quality, as you’d expect from Kia. It is also one of the most practical and usable EVs on the market today. The EV3 is more practical for long journeys, despite the fact that there are cheaper EVs.
Fascinating facts at a glance
- Model: Kia EV3 ‘Air’ 81.4kwh FWD
- Battery: 81.4kwh Lithium-ion Polymer Battery, Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor 170kw
- Gears: Automatic
- Price: €40,928/£36,005
- Performance: 0-100kph/62mph 7.7 seconds Maximum speed 169kph/105mph
- Economy: Driving range combined 603km/375miles
- Emissions: 0
Model tested is UK specification and may differ in terms of equipment and price on other markets
