The Kia EV3 is the Subcompact EV We Need

After racking up numerous awards with the EV9, Kia isn’t taking its foot off the pedal when it comes to its EV lineup. In addition to the EV9 and EV6, Kia has now announced the Kia EV3, an electric, subcompact SUV, will make its way to our shores in early 2026.  

Adapting the design language of the Kia EV9, the EV3 will immediately become one of the most affordable EVs on the market. Allentown Kia has more on the newest member of Kia’s EV family. 

Small EV, Big Upside 

To be the best, it helps to model yourself after the best. Fittingly, the Kia EV3 resembles nothing so much as a diminutive version of the EV9. Following Kia’s established pattern of naming their EVs based on their size, the EV3 isn’t quite one-third of a full EV9… but it gives you an idea of what to expect from Kia’s smallest EV yet. 

Although the EV3 isn’t quite production-ready, it’s close enough that we know what we can expect from Kia’s latest electrified offering. Though influenced by the EV9, the EV3’s exterior is more purposefully geometric, with upright lines and vertical light fixtures providing an element of visual bulk. Visually, the EV3 presents as bigger than it actually is, which is somewhere between a subcompact and compact SUV. While its ground clearance isn’t as high as other crossovers, Kia assures us this is to improve aerodynamic flow and efficiency. 

With its floating roof design, wheels pushed to the corners, and long doors, the EV3 is a tantalizingly modern take on the subcompact segment. Furthermore, its range-topping GT-Line model will add high-gloss body cladding along with thicker front and rear bumpers. 

The standard EV3 gets a 58.3kWh battery, producing 201 bhp and 209 lb-ft of torque. The GT-Line variant ups the battery to 81.4kW, with an eye-opening estimated range of 373 miles. To start, the EV3 will be available with a single-motor, front-wheel drive setup. But amongst early specs, the most important number might be Kia’s target U.S. price range, which begins at just $35,000. The EV3 could be in line to assert itself as the affordable EV option the country needs right now. 

Peeking Inside 

As its boxy exterior suggests, the Kia EV3 offers space and cargo room in abundance. With high ceilings and flat floors, you and the family will have plenty of freedom to spread out. Hopefully, the current EV3’s versatile two-step floor for its cargo space makes its way to the U.S. release. 

When it comes to the interior setup and infotainment, the EV3 once again borrows heavily from the EV9. You’ll find the same 30-inch driver information cluster and infotainment screen combination, as well as physical buttons and knobs for volume and climate controls. For sustainability’s sake, though, you won’t find any leather in this EV. 

The EV3 can also serve as a power conduit for smaller electric machines. Essentially acting as a large battery, the EV3 can charge smaller electronic vehicles. Furthermore, when the EV3 is parked, it will be able to power small electrical appliances, such as coffee makers or hairdryers. 

Go Green Today at Allentown Kia 

The smaller EVs get, the larger the EV revolution seems to become. The Kia EV3 may only seat five, but it has the power to move millions to action. Stop in at Allentown Kia today and explore the EV9 and EV6 before their little brother arrives stateside. And consult our Service Center for your maintenance needs this summer, including oil changes, tire rotations, brake service and more.  

With the EV3, Kia is leaving its smallest carbon footprint yet. With the help of Allentown Kia, you can start doing the same.