Kia EV3: Tests, Specs & Latvian Car of the Year 2026 Results

The Kia EV3, a recent electric vehicle, has reached the final seven in the “Latvia’s Car of the Year 2026” competition, ultimately securing sixth place in the final jury vote. Prior to this, the EV3 received international recognition, earning the title of “World Car of the Year 2025.”

The EV3 measures 4.3 meters in length with a 2.68-meter wheelbase, offering 460 liters of trunk space. Its electric powertrain configuration also allows for an additional 25 liters of storage in the engine compartment.

The vehicle’s design echoes elements of its larger siblings, the EV6 and EV9, characterized by a distinctive angular body shape and wheel arches. It features narrow, elongated Star Map-themed headlights and vertically integrated daytime running lights. The star-themed design continues with the two-part taillights, which extend from beneath the rear spoiler.

The interior incorporates a significant amount of recycled plastic materials – totaling 28.5 kg – and features two 12.3-inch screens for driver instrumentation and infotainment. A central 5.3-inch display manages climate control functions.

The infotainment system receives over-the-air updates and is equipped with ChatGPT and voice control, alongside an In-Car Gaming function. Physical buttons are also present on the steering wheel, doors, and center console, which conceals a pull-out table.

The EV3 is built on a 400V electrical system and is available with a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor powering either the front or all four wheels. Battery options include 58.3 or 81.4 kilowatt-hour capacities. The vehicle offers a range of up to 605 km on a single charge, with the 81.4 kWh battery version capable of charging from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes (WLTP standards).

According to manufacturer data, the EV3 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 170 km/h.

The starting price for the Kia EV3 is €36,990.

Feedback from the “Latvia’s Car of the Year 2026” jury included the following:

Jānis Vanks, racing driver and director of the “Safe Driving School”: “Here’s the first electric car that I would actually aim for for myself. The parameters are excellent, and the chassis and suspension adjustments are at a very good level. I don’t need a lot of space (the rear isn’t overly spacious). I like how it drives and how it feels.”

“The battery offers over 500 kilometers of range, the dynamics are sufficient, and the steering wheel is round (unlike the incomprehensible shapes of most modern cars). If you want an electric car, you should definitely consider this one or the ‘EV4.’”

Jānis Bite, head of property management at AS “Latvijas Valsts meži” (Latvian State Forests): “It’s still built on the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, but this time with a 400V architecture – unlike the ‘EV6’ and ‘EV9’ – and is somewhat similar externally, though the ‘EV3’ is a bit more robust. You can still detect design cues from the Kia Soul – which I think is positive, as it creates brand continuity and recognizability.”

“The best thing I discovered in the cabin is the headrests – they are designed differently from the usual type – with a mesh stretched over the frame. The head support feels wonderful (soft) and makes you want to retain your head against it all the time.”

“The ‘EV3’ has 170 mm of ground clearance – which could be crucial for making a choice in Latvian conditions.”

“Of course, the V2L function is also present – thanks to the Koreans for popularizing this technology – it may encourage other manufacturers to adopt it in their products as well.”

“I also appreciate the clear explanation of new materials and what they are made of – this could certainly promote a greater understanding of the importance of waste sorting in the circular economy.”

“In terms of driving, certain standards have been achieved that are close to the best, and this will not disappoint users. Kia/Hyundai could say that they are already leaders in the world in energy-efficient use – a range of 600 km on a full charge with the large battery may make some skeptics rethink their position.”

Sandris Metuzāls, auto journalist at “Jauns.lv”: “Technologically speaking, kudos to the Koreans – it’s not often you come across an electric car that promises more than 500 kilometers of range on a single charge. Comfortable, practical, and quite functional, as the increased ground clearance is useful in Latvian conditions. The ‘EV3’ is half a step ahead of its brother, the ‘EV4,’ which may appeal more to those who prefer classic shapes in terms of design, but may not be as practical on our bumpy roads. The design of the ‘EV3’ is both a plus and a minus, as I suspect that some people who are not ‘Star Wars’ fans may find it too cosmic. The interior is comfortable and considered ecological, as it uses recycled materials, but I didn’t particularly like the light plastic trim – it visually creates the impression that the car is cheaper than it actually is.”

Toms Timoško, auto journalist for “Klubs” magazine: “If we evaluate the ‘EV3’ very pragmatically, then from a technical point of view, this was the best electric car in this year’s competition. No wonder it has won prestigious awards in international competitions. Design, of course, is a matter of taste, but how far this car can go, how it drives, how spacious and efficient it is – hats off. I am slightly hesitant because the ‘EV3’ as a whole creates the impression of a driving gadget, with rather intrusive safety systems and a multimedia system that is not always intuitive.”

“Technically, everything is very good, and it no longer surprises anyone how competitive cars the Koreans can create. However, like a person who has the best diplomas and titles, but whose personality seems completely alien, it is also tricky to become emotionally attached to the ‘EV3’. As a company car, it would be excellent. No wonder it is the 2025 World Car of the Year.”

The “Latvia’s Car of the Year 2026” competition was won by the “Cupra Terramar,” whereas the “Škoda Kodiaq” was named “Latvia’s Car of the Year 2025.”

Support provided by: Zip.lv advertising portal, Mols shopping center, jauns.lv news portal, iAuto.lv, Delfi, TV Auto News, Klubs, Dieviete.lv, LAMB, V4 motors.

Photo: iAuto.lv