Kia has been having fun with notable success in Europe of late. The very best-selling electrical SUV within the area is not from Audi or BMW, and even Dacia – it’d from Kia. And the successful mannequin may quickly be headed to the USA.
Within the first quarter of this yr, Kia bought a complete of 27,761 electrical autos in Europe. Of these, a exceptional 64%, or 17,878 models, had been the EV3.
This compact electrical crossover utility automobile (CUV) attracts inspiration from the EV9 and EV6, providing a smaller, family-friendly various. It’s a powerful all-rounder that checks most trendy packing containers, and that’s earlier than factoring in its value. Within the UK, it begins at £32,995 (approx. US$43,790), although rumors trace at an excellent decrease MSRP when it arrives within the US.
So, what’s the tea? The EV3 was just lately noticed being examined on US roads. A video, which went viral due to KindelAuto, seems to point out a 2026 Kia EV3 GT-Line variant – almost definitely a US-spec mannequin.
Though the prototype was wrapped in camouflage, a couple of key particulars had been seen. Most notably, the presence of orange facet reflectors, that are probably a modification for compliance with US automobile rules.
The EV3 would be part of a aggressive phase that features the Volvo EX30, Tesla Model Y, and Hyundai Kona Electric. The EV3 getting into the fray may shake up the phase in an enormous method.
Within the UK, the SUV comes with a 58-kWh battery as normal, which affords 270 miles (435 km) of vary. Kia helps you to select a much bigger 81-kWh battery pack for some additional money, which helps enhance that vary to 375 miles (603 km).
Kia
The utmost charging velocity is a decent 128 kW for the bigger battery and 102 kW for the smaller one, which equates to a cost from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes.
The outside styling could not flip heads – or it’d, styling being subjective and all – however the EV3’s substance is difficult to disregard. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds, providing stable efficiency for its class. Inside, the cabin is roomy and thoughtfully designed, with a fold-up rear bench permitting for added storage, and a folding desk creating a flexible area for eating or engaged on the go.
The EV3 was the UK’s top-selling retail electrical automobile in March, pushing Kia’s EV gross sales to a report 21% of its complete gross sales, which is a big milestone.

Kia
Though Kia has but to substantiate official particulars, the EV3 is anticipated to launch within the US as early as late 2025, with a full launch in early 2026. Pricing is anticipated to fall between US$35,000 and $40,000.
Will American drivers embrace this compact electrical crossover? Solely time will inform.
Through: KindelAuto