The midsize EV segment in India could see major disruption if Kia brings the EV3 to our market. With models like the Volvo EX30 and BYD Atto 3 already proving the appeal of premium compact EVs, the EV3 has the ingredients to elevate this segment further. After driving the EV3 GT-Line in the UK, one thing is certain—Kia’s latest electric SUV fits seamlessly into this premium EV league.
Design
Built on a dedicated EV platform, the EV3 isn’t particularly large, but its design clearly references Kia’s flagship EVs—the EV6 and EV9. Sharp LED lighting, clean and squared-off surfaces, flush door handles, and striking 19-inch alloy wheels give it a commanding, upscale presence.
For India, expect the same overall styling, though Kia may opt for smaller wheels with taller tyre sidewalls to better suit our roads.
Interior Quality and ADAS Technology
Step inside, and the EV3 feels genuinely premium. The material quality is excellent, the fit-and-finish is tight, and every touch-point exudes solidity. The two-tone upholstery, minimalist dashboard design, and meticulous attention to detail create a cabin experience reminiscent of a smaller EV9.
There are no panel gaps, no creaks, and no flex—a rarity in this segment.
Premium touches include:
- Ambient lighting
- Smart storage solutions (including a sliding centre console)
- A practical frunk
- A crisp Harman Kardon audio system
In fact, the EV3’s interior feels more refined than the BYD Atto 3’s quirky cabin and richer than the Volvo EX30’s ultra-minimalist layout.
Screens and Interface
The EV3 features a three-screen setup:
- 12.3-inch infotainment screen
- 12.3-inch digital driver display
- 5.3-inch climate control panel
All displays are smooth and lag-free. The only ergonomic flaw: the climate panel sits behind the steering wheel, making it difficult for the driver to view directly.
ADAS Performance
One of the EV3’s standout strengths is its ADAS calibration.
- Lane Keep Assist is impressively precise—there’s no lane “ping-ponging,” and the system handles curves with confidence.
- Adaptive Cruise Control is equally polished, maintaining smooth speed adjustments with no abrupt or snappy braking.
Overall, Kia’s ADAS tuning in the EV3 feels exceptionally mature.
Performance and Ride Comfort
The EV3 is powered by a 201bhp front motor producing 283Nm of torque. While not a performance monster, it feels adequately quick, especially for everyday driving. Despite weighing around 1.9 tonnes, the EV handles eagerly and remains composed through corners.
Ride quality is well-balanced—firm enough for stability, yet comfortable for daily use. Kia may soften the suspension slightly for India, but in its UK-spec tune, the EV3 feels refined and confidence-inspiring.
Tested Real-World Range
We performed a comprehensive range test on cold UK motorways, cruising at ~70mph (112kph)—conditions known to reduce EV efficiency.
Even in such scenarios, the EV3 delivered an impressive:
- 310 miles (~500 km) on a full charge
- From its 81.4kWh battery
Given the temperature and speeds, this is very strong real-world performance.
Positioning in India
This is where things get interesting. Although the EV3 is similar in size to the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, it is positioned far more upmarket in terms of:
- Build quality
- ADAS sophistication
- Cabin experience
- Real-world range
As a result, buyers may initially compare it to mass-market EVs like the Creta EV—but the EV3 belongs in a more premium segment. If launched in India, pricing will likely align with the BYD Atto 3 and Volvo EX30, not the Creta EV.
And that positioning is absolutely justified.
Verdict
The Kia EV3 is a deeply impressive electric SUV. Its build quality, technology, ADAS calibration, and real-world range are all flagship-grade. It eliminates the need for a second daily-use car thanks to its ~500km practical range. It feels more polished than the Atto 3 and matches the EX30’s premium feel.
The biggest challenge for Kia India will be ensuring buyers view the EV3 as a premium midsize EV, not a mass-market alternative. If priced sensibly, the EV3 could become one of the most complete EVs under ₹40 lakh in the Indian market.
