According to Carscoops, photographers have spotted two test models of the EV3 being tested in snowy conditions in Sweden. The cars come in two exterior colors, silver and blue, along with different alloy wheel sets. Both vehicles look very much like a production version, indicating that the launch date for this model is not far off.
The electric SUV is expected to be launched in 2024, bringing modern design and advanced technology features to the segment, with the most affordable price range among Kia’s electric vehicle lineup. The EV3 promises to be the best-selling electric vehicle for the Korean brand.
The overall design of the car is largely retained from the concept version, including the vertically stacked LED headlights and sculpted lines. The size of the Kia EV3 has not been confirmed. However, the expected dimensions of the vehicle are 4.4 meters long, significantly shorter than the EV5 (4,615 mm). The car competes in the same segment as VinFast VF 6.
The adjustments include slightly smaller wheels, larger side mirrors, traditional plastic wheel arch trim, and thicker pillars and door handles.
In addition to the exterior, the Carscoops team also revealed images of the interior, showing a dashboard with two screens, including a digital instrument cluster and a central infotainment screen with a simple design.
The gear lever is positioned behind the steering wheel, similar to the EV9. In addition, the KIA EV3 dashboard also includes a series of shortcut buttons below the infotainment screen, climate control switches, and several buttons on the raised center console.
Like other new electric models from KIA and Hyundai, the EV3 will use the dedicated E-GMP platform for electric vehicles. However, to reduce costs, the company may equip it with 400V technology instead of the more expensive 800V architecture found in larger models.
It is likely that the lower-level EV3 variant will have an electric motor and a 58 kWh battery pack. There is also the possibility of more powerful versions as the Korean automaker has confirmed that they will offer GT versions for their entire range of electric vehicles.
Kia has announced a target price range of $30,000 to $80,000 for pure electric models, with the EV3 expected to be priced lower. Competitors for the EV3 in Europe will include the Peugeot E-2008 and Ford Puma-E.
