New York - At the 2026 New York International Auto Show, Kia introduced the 2027 EV3, an entry-level electric SUV that brings the design language and technology of the EV9 into a smaller, more attainable package. The EV3 arrives in five trims — Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT — with a targeted on-sale date of late 2026. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
Two Batteries, Real Range
The EV3 is built on Kia's 400V E-GMP platform with a choice of two battery options. The entry Light trim uses a 58.3 kWh pack with front-wheel drive and up to a Kia-estimated 220 miles of range. The remaining four trims step up to an 81.4 kWh battery with up to a Kia-estimated 320 miles of range in FWD configuration. All-wheel drive is optional on Wind and Land and standard on GT-Line and GT.
Output is 261 horsepower on AWD models and 288 horsepower on the GT, which adds a sport-tuned suspension and steering along with neon green brake calipers, seatbelts, and interior accents. The 58.3 kWh battery charges from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 29 minutes on a DC fast charger; the 81.4 kWh battery takes approximately 31 minutes. A native NACS port is standard, and Plug and Charge capability allows charging to begin by simply plugging in after a one-time setup in the Kia Access app.
EV9 Design Language
The EV3's exterior borrows directly from the EV9, including the star map DRL, hidden rear door handles, and flush-mounted roof rails. Standard wheels are 17-inch alloys; GT-Line and GT step up to 19-inch wheels, with the GT receiving unique 19-inch wheels to match its green caliper accents. A U.S.-exclusive Nightfall appearance package is available on certain trims, adding gloss black wheels, black emblems, bridge-type roof rails, and a dark gray interior.
Interior, Cargo, and V2L
Inside, the EV3 mirrors the EV9's cockpit with a nearly 30-inch panoramic display: dual 12.3-inch screens plus a 5-inch climate display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all trims, and the ccNC system supports over-the-air updates. Available entertainment includes Netflix and YouTube streaming, along with display themes for Disney, Marvel, the NBA, and FIFA World Cup 2026.
Cargo capacity is 26.1 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 56.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The EV3 also includes a 0.9 cubic foot frunk. Rear seat backs recline up to 39 degrees. Available Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) allows the battery to power external devices; available Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) via a Wallbox bidirectional charger can return power to the home during outages. Kia's i-Pedal 3.0 one-pedal driving system is standard and now also functions in reverse.
Safety
All EV3 models include eight standard airbags including rear side airbags, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Available systems include Highway Driving Assist 2 and Remote Smart Parking Assist.
More Kia EV Coverage
- Kia Debuts 2026 EV9 GT and 2025 EV6 Models at LA Auto Show
- Kia EV9 First Impression
- 2027 Kia Seltos Debuts at the New York International Auto Show
See all photos in the 2027 Kia EV3 photo gallery.
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