2025 Kia EV3 here next quarter

The 2025 Kia EV3 has made its national debut at the Australian Open, several months ahead of its commercial release.

Thus far Kia Australia has confirmed “the majority of” variants will feature the bigger 81.4kWh battery pack – as opposed to the smaller 58.3kWh unit – and that there are plans to offer “an all-wheel drive” (dual-motor) version in the name of customer choice.

Odds are this dual-motor variant will be either a top-flight GT-Line or even a GT performance halo, however we’re yet to see anything of the sort at a global level beyond the long-standing promise to deliver such models.

Other highlights will include the first local application of Kia’s Smart Regenerative System 3.0 technology along with the obligatory vehicle-to-load functionality and 128kW DC fast-charging for the Long Range (81.4kWh) versions, translating to a 31-minute 10-80 per cent top up.

The Standard Range variant(s) will have a WLTP range of about 430km while the Long Range offerings will cover up to 600km depending on the trim level.

Unlike the bigger and inevitably dearer EV6 and EV9, the Kia EV3 is underpinned by a 400V version of the Hyundai Group’s e-GMP architecture, hence the lower charging speeds and greater affordability.

Pricing and full specification details will be announced closer to the EV3’s release next quarter, however carsales has it on good authority the compact SUV will start from less than $50,000 plus on-road costs.

Odds are the initial line-up will largely mirror that of the bigger EV5 and comprise the Air Standard Range, Air Long Range, Earth Long Range and GT-Line Long Range, though it’s possible the Air Long Range could be left out to start with, pending demand.

All variants offered from launch will feature a 150kW/283Nm single-motor powertrain.

One final point of note is that the EV3 will be sold alongside the existing Niro EV for the time being, however the former’s introduction is expected to soak up some of the latter’s sales, potentially to the benefit of the Niro Hybrid.

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