Our opinion

The Kia EV3 positions itself as a practical, well-rounded compact electric SUV rather than a flashy or high-performance EV. It’s built for real-world usability: easy to drive in town, comfortable on longer trips, and straightforward to live with. Kia’s approach here is clearly about reliability, efficiency, and interior space rather than chasing headline-grabbing charging speeds or luxurious touches. It’s the kind of EV that most people can buy without worrying about compromises that matter day to day. Range Accuracy & Ease of Charge With two battery options, the smaller pack delivers around 300–440 km in real-world use, while the larger one can realistically hit 350–550 km. Charging from 10 to 80% on a 100 kW+ DC charger typically takes about half an hour, which isn’t class-leading but is entirely usable for road trips. Its efficiency means that, for most users, range anxiety is minimal, as it covers daily commutes and longer journeys comfortably. Space & Practicality The interior of the EV3 is one of its strongest points. Rear seats are spacious, legroom is generous, and the boot is practical enough for family trips or grocery runs. Fold the seats down, and the load space expands significantly, making it genuinely versatile for day-to-day use. The cabin feels light and airy, and controls are easy to reach, reinforcing its practicality. Driving & Handling The EV3 isn’t a sports car, but it delivers a smooth and confident drive. It accelerates briskly thanks to 204 CV, and body control is well managed for a compact SUV. The i-Pedal regenerative braking works well in traffic, helping with efficiency and giving a slightly more connected driving experience. On the motorway, it’s stable, but higher-speed driving will see some range drop. Comfort is clearly prioritised over sharp handling, which suits the segment. Ease of Use (Controls & Infotainment) Kia provides a digital driver display alongside a 12.3-inch central screen that handles navigation and media. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work wirelessly, and wireless charging is available on higher trims. While some users note minor software quirks, overall the layout is intuitive, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly. Physical buttons are limited, but the touchscreen is responsive and clear. Bottom line For most buyers, the Kia EV3 is a smart choice: practical, efficient, and comfortable for daily life. It doesn’t excel in ultra-fast charging or luxury touches, but it delivers everything essential for a compact EV in a simple, reliable package. Real-world range, interior space, and comfort are its strongest selling points, and it remains competitively priced. Competitors & Alternatives Direct rivals include the Volvo EX30, which offers faster charging and more premium finishes but less boot space, and the Hyundai Kona Electric, slightly more efficient but with a tighter cabin. The Cupra Born is sportier but more expensive, while the Volkswagen ID.3 has a smooth ride but a mixed infotainment experience. The Renault Megane E‑Tech is stylish inside but similar in range, and the Peugeot e‑2008 is comfortable yet shorter-ranged. For buyers wanting performance and range over SUV practicality, the Tesla Model 3 SR+ remains an option, albeit at a higher cost and with a less conventional SUV body.