Kia EV3
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for an electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or practicality? The Kia EV3 might be exactly what you’re searching for. This compact electric SUV brings together cutting edge technology, impressive range, and genuine family practicality in one attractive package. It’s designed for drivers who want to make the switch to electric without sacrificing the space and versatility they need for daily life.

From the moment you see it, the EV3 makes a strong first impression. Its bold, futuristic design language sets it apart from more conservative rivals like the Nissan Ariya or Skoda Enyaq. The interior feels spacious and modern, with sustainable materials throughout that show Kia’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The cabin layout is logical and user friendly, making it easy to live with every day.

Driving the EV3 reveals its true strengths. The electric powertrain delivers smooth, quiet performance that makes both city driving and longer journeys feel effortless. With a choice of battery options offering up to 375 miles of range, it removes the anxiety that many feel about electric vehicle ownership. While the price point puts it in premium territory, you’re getting advanced technology, excellent build quality, and the peace of mind that comes with Kia’s industry leading warranty. It proves that electric family transport can be both practical and desirable.

What's the Kia EV3 Like to Drive?

The Kia EV3 is built around efficiency and smooth delivery rather than outright speed. The electric motor provides instant torque from standstill, making city driving and traffic light starts feel effortless. With around 204 horsepower in the long range version, acceleration is brisk without being overwhelming. The 0-60 time of around 7.5 seconds feels perfectly adequate for most driving situations, whether you’re merging onto motorways or overtaking slower traffic.

Where the EV3 truly excels is in its refinement and driving manners. The electric powertrain means virtually silent operation, creating a serene cabin environment that rivals much more expensive vehicles. The suspension setup strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. It absorbs road imperfections well while remaining composed through corners. The steering is light at parking speeds but weights up nicely at higher speeds, giving you confidence on country roads. This makes it an easy and relaxing car to drive in all conditions, perfect for families who prioritise comfort over sporting thrills.

Inside the Kia EV3: Comfort & Features

Step inside the EV3 and you’re greeted by one of the most impressive interiors in the electric SUV class. The dashboard design is clean and modern, dominated by a large dual screen setup that houses both the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The materials used throughout feel premium and sustainable, with recycled plastics and eco friendly fabrics that don’t compromise on quality. Every surface you touch feels well made and built to last.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with good adjustment range to help drivers of all sizes find the perfect position. Space in the back is generous for a compact SUV, with enough legroom for adults on longer journeys. The panoramic sunroof standard on higher trims adds to the airy, spacious feeling inside. Tech features are comprehensive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, and an intuitive infotainment system. The air conditioning system includes a heat pump for efficient climate control that helps preserve battery range in winter conditions.

The Kia EV3 represents a compelling entry point into premium electric SUV ownership. It successfully combines impressive range, practical family space, and advanced technology in an attractively styled package. The interior quality and build standards feel genuinely premium, while the electric powertrain delivers the smooth, quiet operation that makes electric driving so appealing. The long warranty and competitive charging capabilities add real value to the ownership proposition. The main trade offs are the higher purchase price and slightly slower acceleration compared to some rivals. It’s not the most exciting car to drive, but that’s not its purpose. Its purpose is to be a reliable, efficient, and comfortable family electric vehicle that makes the transition from petrol power as seamless as possible. It achieves this with considerable success. If you’re looking for an electric SUV that prioritises practicality, quality, and peace of mind over sporting thrills, the EV3 deserves serious consideration.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Kia EV3?

As an electric vehicle, the EV3 offers compelling running costs that make it attractive for families watching their budgets. Electricity costs significantly less than petrol or diesel, with home charging offering the best value. You can expect to pay around 3-5 pence per mile for electricity compared to 15-20 pence per mile for a comparable petrol SUV. Public rapid charging costs more but still represents good value, especially with Kia’s partnership charging networks offering competitive rates.

The main consideration is the higher purchase price compared to traditional SUVs. Starting from around £33,000, the EV3 commands a premium over petrol alternatives like the Nissan Qashqai. However, government grants, company car tax benefits, and exemption from congestion charges help offset this initial cost. Servicing requirements are minimal due to fewer moving parts in electric motors. With flexible car finance options available, many buyers find monthly payments comparable to traditional vehicles when factoring in fuel savings. The 7 year warranty provides additional peace of mind for long term ownership costs.

Is the Kia EV3 Practical for Everyday Use?

For an electric compact SUV, the EV3 delivers impressive practical credentials. The 460 litre boot is well shaped and easily accommodates the weekly shopping or holiday luggage for a family of four. The rear seats split and fold to create a larger cargo area when needed, perfect for larger items or DIY store runs. Throughout the cabin, you’ll find plenty of storage spaces for phones, drinks, and everyday items that families accumulate.

The high driving position gives excellent visibility, making the EV3 feel manageable in town while offering confidence on motorways. Where it really shines is in its versatility. The electric powertrain means no exhaust emissions, making it perfect for urban driving and school runs. For families considering the switch to electric, the EV3 offers genuine everyday usability compared to other used Kia cars in the range. Its compact exterior dimensions make parking straightforward while the spacious interior means no one feels cramped. This balance of size, space, and efficiency makes it an ideal family vehicle for modern life.

The Kia EV3 stands out in the competitive electric SUV market by offering genuine family practicality without compromising on quality or technology. It packages impressive electric range, premium interior materials, and advanced safety features into a compact and manageable form. While it may not be the most affordable option in its class, it excels in the areas that matter most for daily family use: comfort, efficiency, and reliability.

You choose the EV3 because you want an electric SUV that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Its spacious interior, impressive range, and comprehensive warranty make every journey more enjoyable and worry free. It’s perfectly suited for modern family life while being compact enough for urban environments. If you’re considering the switch to electric and want a vehicle that combines practicality with premium quality, the EV3 should be at the top of your list, especially with competitive finance deals making ownership more accessible than ever.