On the road in Laois: Test drive of the new Kia EV3

Kia’s electric vehicle (EV) journey started with the higher end models such as the sleek looking EV6 and the huge EV9, a model designed to rival the likes of the Defender or even maybe a Range Rover. It certainly looks a bit like one!
So with EV sales in decline, down some 24% here in Ireland in 2024 and many questions now being asked about the true “green credentials” of EVs have Kia got quite a task on hand to get bums on seats with the new EV3 Crossover? The model price range starts at €36,790 for the Earth 2, there is an Earth 3 but this week's test car is the top of the range GT-Line.

First Impressions
Looking much like a scaled down EV9 and none the worse for that the new EV3 is a smart if boxy looking crossover. The front end has a full width light bar and stylish LED lights and the rear section boasts a nice design too. Overall I like its chunky rugged good looks.

What’s it like inside?
The bright and roomy cabin is well laid out and boasts plenty of storage space, a must for families on the move. Kia’s digital dash is one of the better ones on the market and consists of two 12.3 inch screens which blend to look as one. I like that design and the information available on the drivers display is configurable while the head up display proves a nice addition for driver info. I couldn’t quite get the perfect driving position despite it having adjustable steering and an electric driver's seat. When the leg position was perfect the steering wheel was a bit too far and vice versa.

The level of standard kit is really excellent highlights of which include, lovely GT-Line 19 inch alloys, heated front and rear seats, power driver's seat, head up display, heated steering wheel, Wireless Apple Car play and Android Auto with wireless phone charging, Kia Connect Telematics, sunroof, and a host of safety kit. Mind you there are also a plethora of annoying dings and bongs to 'warn’ drivers of their presumed wrongdoing. Particularly annoying is the constant ding when you take your eyes off the road to use the touchscreen or look over your shoulder at a junction. To be fair this is not an issue related to Kia but to the nanny state rules Europe has introduced for cars from 2025.

The materials used inside are mostly recycled and there is even a QR code on the dash that you can scan to see what’s made of what. The quality is generally good but you don’t have to look too far to find some less desirable plastics. These at material looks and feels good, it's “faux” leather of course.

What’s under the bonnet?
The GT-line is powered by an 81.4kWh battery and an electric motor driving the front wheels with a total power output of 204 bhp. Performance is good and as with all EVs acceleration is linear and smooth with the EV3 hitting 100km/h from a standstill in 7.9 seconds.

Claimed range is some 585km but as with all EVs the EV3 falls a bit short of this under normal driving conditions. My test car came 99% charged and displayed a range of 464 Km. I actually achieved 358km. I must emphasise though I don’t nurse it around, so heated seats get used and its driven in mixed conditions including the most challenging for EVs namely the motorway. Over 450km is achievable with less motorway work. Fast charging takes about 30 min from 20% to 80%. Road tax is €120.00.

How does it drive?
Competently would best describe the driving experience. It does everything well and nothing badly. You won’t find yourself pushing it along a twisty country road through as its mass and comfort suspension setting limits driver involvement. It is like most EVs, quiet and refined.

Hugh’s Verdict
As EVs go the new EV3 is a good one! I liked the style, the generous standard kit and the real practicality of it with lots of space, good storage, useful USC ports front and rear. In short, it's an appealing car for family needs, but at aprice! The GT-Line costs €47,190.