After our first test drive last winter, I’ve asked to test the Kia EV3 GT-Line again to see the differences between the seasons.
And this is how it went.
Kia EV3 GT-Line 2025: our tops&flops
The Kia EV3 is the most honest and intelligent electric car I’ve ever driven. A complete vehicle, ultra-modern, with interiors of the highest quality. We had already tested the GT-Line last winter, and it had impressed us with its range. But I asked to drive it again to see if there were any differences: you’ll be surprised to hear that yes, there are, but it’s one of the EVs that maintains its range best when temperatures change.
The version we tested comes with an 81.4 kWh battery and a declared WLTP range of up to 605 km.
I like to emphasize the “honesty” of the EV3 because I was able to confirm that the declared range is exactly what I actually achieved in my test. And let me tell you, that’s no small thing. Considering the car’s weight of 1,810 kg, the 204 hp available provide plenty of punch and responsiveness, enough to give you real driving satisfaction in any situation—whether in quick bursts of acceleration or longer extra-urban drives. If you’re looking for an electric car that can rival Tesla’s prestige, with a modern, eye-catching design, just the right amount of power, spacious and comfortable interiors, and most importantly, a real-world range that lets you drive at least 500 km without worry, the Kia EV3 is the EV you’ve been searching for.
If infotainment is a decisive factor in your car choice, the EV3 won’t leave you uncertain: it’s equipped with three screens—two 12.3-inch displays connected by a 5-inch climate control panel—giving you full command of the car’s functions. And while compact, it makes excellent use of its space: it may not be the most beautiful car around, but it’s extremely comfortable inside and, in some cases, even more practical than the larger EV6 (our most recent test drive here). Of course, there are a few drawbacks—perhaps a bit too much plastic and the fact that it tends to beep a lot—but otherwise, there’s a reason why it was named Car of the Year in Denmark.
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A modern design
The design of the Kia EV3 is strikingly modern and hard to overlook, inspired by its larger sibling, the EV9 (here our test drive). The front adopts the look of Kia’s “electric family,” with vertical LED headlights, while the rear features vertically oriented lights smoothly connected to the sloping rear window. The EV3 combines a contemporary style with excellent aerodynamics, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.263, among the best in its segment.
Inside, the EV3 uses recycled materials such as PET for upholstery, supporting sustainability. The seats can be ventilated, heated, and electrically adjustable, with options like full recline for added comfort during breaks.
The level of onboard technology is impressive. Unlike in other models we have tested, it took only a few minutes to master the controls and pair a smartphone via Bluetooth. The system relies on two 12.3-inch screens—one for the instrument cluster and one for infotainment—separated by a 5-inch display dedicated to climate control. Connectivity includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with advanced functions like plug-and-charge and battery pre-conditioning. The balance between physical buttons and touch controls feels well thought out. The EV3 also offers a generous 460-liter boot with an adjustable double floor, plus a 25-liter front compartment for charging cables and smaller items.
Two Battery Versions
The Kia EV3 comes in two configurations: a Standard Range with a 58.3 kWh battery (55 kWh usable) and a Long Range with an 81.4 kWh battery (78 kWh usable), which is the version tested here. Both use front-wheel drive powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 150 kW (204 hp) and 283 Nm of torque. Performance figures are respectable: a top speed of 170 km/h and 0–100 km/h acceleration in 7.5 seconds for the Standard Range and 7.7 seconds for the Long Range.
The Long Range battery provides up to 605 km of WLTP range, while the Standard Range delivers 434 km. Both support DC fast charging up to 135 kW, enabling a 10–80% charge in around 30 minutes. AC charging reaches up to 11 kW. Thanks to vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, the EV3 can also power external devices with up to 3.6 kW output.
On the Road
Getting behind the wheel of the Kia EV3 immediately highlights its comfort. The customizable seat and raised driving position offer excellent visibility. From the very first corner, the steering felt precise, and the placement of the battery pack enhances responsiveness, especially in tight bends and roundabouts.
Overall, the EV3 proves stable in every condition, even on fast, sweeping curves. Particularly impressive is the “i-Pedal” mode, an adjustable energy regeneration system that allows almost one-pedal driving. It slows the car progressively to a full stop, improving efficiency, especially in urban traffic. Once accustomed to it, the brake pedal is rarely needed in relaxed driving.
The silence is another strength. While quietness is a hallmark of EVs, the EV3 excels thanks to solid build quality. Even at highway speeds of 130 km/h, the cabin remains calm, making long trips more relaxing. Comfort is further enhanced by standard ADAS systems, including lane-keeping assist, lane change control, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.
Convenience features such as keyless entry, push-button start, and customizable ambient lighting enrich the driving experience. The V2L system, already mentioned, adds practicality by allowing the EV3 to power external devices—an ideal solution in unexpected situations.
