The 2027 Kia EV3 is finally here.
We first saw the cute Kia EV3 as a concept back in 2023. A year later, the production model was introduced around the world—except in North America. While it’s a bit late, it is still coming here, and what you see above is the final US model. That alone should generate some excitement among EV fans who have been waiting for a smaller, more affordable electric option from Kia.
I find it a bit disappointing that Kia chose one of the worst color combinations to introduce the new small EV in the US. They have so many great colors available—at least overseas—and yet they picked a GT-Line version with cheap-looking piano black trim everywhere. It doesn’t really highlight the design in the best way. The contrasting black roof also doesn’t work particularly well with this specific design, making the car look a bit less cohesive than it could have been.
Now we know for sure the Kia EV3 will go on sale in the US at the end of the year, which wasn’t a sure thing until today. This confirmation is especially important after the cancellation of the Kia EV4 electric sedan just a few weeks ago. The end of the EV6 GT in the US, reportedly due to new 25% tariffs, was also more bad news. Thankfully, the other models in the EV6 lineup, which are built in the US, are still being offered and continue to sell reasonably well.
As expected, the new Kia EV3 looks a lot like a smaller EV9, which might or might not be a great idea depending on your taste. Personally, I think the design works better in this smaller package, where the proportions feel more natural and less bulky. However, after seeing a few of these in person during a trip to Europe last year, I think the EV3 looks a bit cheap in real life. Some of the materials and detailing don’t quite live up to expectations, especially considering the competition.
US press is already mentioning a possible $35,000 starting price for the EV3, and I think that’s too high. At that price, you can get a much nicer Hyundai Ioniq 5, which offers more space, better materials, and faster charging. The EV3 should really start just under $30,000 in the US to make a strong impact. That would position it well against competitors like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt, while also avoiding overlap with other Kia and Hyundai models.
The EV3 will be available with two battery packs. The smaller 58.3 kWh version has a range of around 220 miles, which isn’t particularly competitive against the Leaf and Bolt. A larger, more expensive 81.4 kWh battery provides up to 320 miles of range, which is much more appealing for longer trips and everyday usability. Unlike other Kia and Hyundai EVs, the EV3 is based on a slower 400V architecture. However, it still manages a respectable charging time of about 30 minutes from 10% to 80%, which should be acceptable for most buyers.
Even the cheapest model produces 261 horsepower, which is far more than most drivers will ever need in a compact EV. The GT model bumps that up to 288 horsepower and even includes fake engine noises—of course—something that continues to divide opinions among enthusiasts.
Ultimately, pricing will be the key to the EV3’s success. With rising gas prices and increasing interest in electric vehicles, the timing is right for a small, affordable EV in the US. If Kia gets the pricing and positioning right, the EV3 could become a very popular entry-level electric option.