By Ian Strachan.
The Kia EV3 just keeps on winning awards. And deservedly so. This medium, all-electric family SUV has just about everything you could want from a battery-powered vehicle.
Kia has promised multiple electric vehicle launches between now and 2027, and if they are all as good as this we’ve got a few treats coming.
I test drove the Air specification of this impressive front-wheel-drive SUV. Even though that’s the entry model it still comes with a good specification, and the big advantage of a very competitive price. My test car comes in at £36,005 on the road.
Its electric motor develops a more-than-adequate 201 bhp, has a top speed of 105 mph and will take you from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.5 seconds, so its no slouch. In addition it gives you engaging and comfortable driving and impeccable road manners.
The EV3 is a good looker and will undoubtedly turn heads. My test car came in attractive Frost Blue. Its external looks are enhanced with striking 17-inch alloys, side mouldings, gloss black roof rails and body coloured flush door handles.
The interior of the EV3 is modern, uncluttered and well laid out, with a commanding driving position and good visibility. The front seats are heated, as is the steering wheel.
You also get all-round electric windows, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry and ignition, smart cruise control and hill-start assist.
Satellite navigation and other functions are controlled via a 12.3 inch touch screen with a 5.3 inch climate control screen which is easy to use. In-car entertainment includes Apple CarPlay with voice control, Bluetooth and a six speaker ound system.
Specification on the EV3 also includes front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, wireless phone charger and a range of safety technology including lane keeping aid, blind-spot monitor, driver attention warning, forward collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic alert and downhill brake control.
Handling on the EV3 is excellent, with sure-footed grip and a suspension which handles the ubiquitous potholes without too much drama.
Published range for the EV3 is an impressive 375 miles. Putting the air conditioning on reduces range significantly so I tried to avoid it, despite some hot weather, settling for doing it the old way and winding the windows down. Charging times are good with a 10-80 percent charge time of 31 minutes with a 350kw charger.
This EV3 is certainly competitive, coming in at £36,005 on the road for the Air spec. For that you get a highly-regarded electric SUV with a high specification and Kia’s industry-leading seven year warranty.
