Kia previews upcoming EV3 compact SUV with teaser images

Kia Corporation has released the first teaser images of its upcoming EV3, the brand’s new compact EV SUV ahead of the global premiere on May 23. 

The teaser images showcase the bold, geometric and robust aspects of the EV3’s exterior design while highlighting its dynamic styling. The EV3 has boxy rear fenders and tailgate, and the signature Star Map lighting, which imbue the vehicle with a strong, futuristic identity.

The EV3’s design stems from the same principles used to sculpt Kia's flagship EV9 SUV. Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy is the foundation for continuity throughout the brand’s model range and gives the freedom for each vehicle to express its unique character.

Aiming to broaden the accessibility of electric mobility following the introduction of the multi-award-winning Kia EV6 and EV9 models, the EV3, as per the company, “is a compact yet comprehensively equipped EV SUV that offers outstanding performance through its incorporation of innovative technologies.”

Like the larger Kia SUVs, the EV6 and EV9, the EV3 will use the Hyundai Motor Group’s bespoke electric E-GMP platform, which should support various powertrains and battery sizes. As a result, front-driven entry-level models could offer 218hp. The platform uses a 400V electrical architecture, compared with the 800V one for EV6 and EV9, which means that charging speeds will be slower but will help to reduce the costs.

The new Kia EV3 will go on sale later this year following the car’s global world premiere on May 23, 2024 at 19:00 KST (10:00 GMT / 12:00 CET).

Will the EV3 come to India?
Kia India has not given any confirmation on this. The full-size and much more premium EV9 three-row born EV SUV is expected to be launched in the country this year. The company is readying an entry-level EV, based on the Clavis compact SUV, for the Indian market. The Clavis EV will go on sale here sometime next year.