Kia’s electric PV5 has been spied testing in Germany ahead of a launch later this year.
The panel van will be offered with different cab, roof, and body configurations.
A passenger van is also being developed to rival the non-Cargo versions of VW’s ID.Buzz.
Kia definitely isn’t getting cold feet about electric vehicles, and it’s not just SUVs the Korean automaker thinks need the EV treatment. These spy shots show the company’s PV5 van being developed to give models like the VW’s ID.Buzz Cargo a hard time.
Built around Kia’s e-CCPM (Electric Complete Chassis Platform Module) architecture, the PV5 is a production LCV version of an electric van concept shown 12 months ago. Like VW’s ID.Buzz, it’ll be available in both passenger van and commercial forms, but the PV5 will offer far more configurations than its VW rival.
And we don’t just mean in terms of motor and battery options, which Kia hasn’t revealed much about yet, incidentally. No, we’re talking about modular body sections that enable the PV5 to be configured with low- and high-roof body styles and potentially even as a truck.
When it revealed the concept, Kia said the body units were attached by mechanical couplings and electromagnetic fixture points, allowing owners to customize the PV5s, though looking at these spy shots suggests it might not be a DIY swap and the versatility is experienced at the point of ordering.
Only the brief glimpse of painted metal below the roof behind the sliding door helped us tell this LCV apart from the passenger-carrying minivan we saw last September, and which had a glass panel in the same location. That and the simple steel wheels that replace the alloys seen on the previous prototype.
Both versions feature the same dropped waistline at the front door to improve visibility, have tough, black plastic wheel-arch spats, and are bundled up in a mountain of camo that keeps much of the design details a secret. But we can see the DRLs tracking the line of the frunk and real headlights stashed in the bumper below.
A couple of frames even give us a taste of the inside of the PV5, one showing a large grab handle on the A-pillar and a huge rectangular touchscreen that’s much taller than the ones Kia uses on its current EVs, including the range-topping EV9 SUV.
The PV5 launches later this year and will be joined by a smaller PV1 and PV7. We’re also hoping the off-road PV5 Kia showed at SEMA also makes it to production. Would you take one over a VW ID.Buzz Cargo?
Note: the gallery below also contains shots of the concept and also a Carscoops rendering of how the PV5 could look.
European firms could face fines of up to €15 billion ($15.5 billion) if they don’t meet the new, stricter targets.
Stellantis, Ford, Mazda, Subaru, Leapmotor and Toyota will pool emissions with Tesla to comply with EU’s regulations.
The sale of carbon credits accounted for roughly 3% of Tesla’s $72 billion in revenue during Q1-Q3 2024.
A group of the world’s largest car manufacturers want to pool their European Union emissions with Tesla this year to avoid massive fines. This year, overall fleet emissions in the bloc will need to fall from 106.6 grams of CO2 per kilometer traveled down to 93.6 grams, and individual car manufacturers have specific targets they must hit.
According to documents released by the EU Commission, Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Stellantis, Subaru and Leapmotor intend to create a ‘Superpool’ with Tesla. These brands account for a combined 33% of the total vehicle market and a 30% share of the total EV market in Europe.
Tesla’s Carbon Credits Will Help, But It’s Not a Silver Bullet
“Considering 2024 sales, the Tesla pool significantly narrows the emissions gap for automakers within the group, bringing them to within just 4g of the target,” Automotive Research Lead at Rho Motion, Will Roberts, said.
However, Roberts cautioned that the math isn’t entirely in their favor. “Despite the weight of the world’s largest BEV manufacturer, this does not guarantee fines are avoided by this pool. Tesla has sold fewer vehicles in 2024 than 2023, and a continuation of that trend would not be helpful. Furthermore, Toyota, Subaru and Mazda have all been slower to get BEVs on the road and with Toyota alone selling three times more vehicles than Tesla, the offset effect only goes so far.”
These aren’t the only car companies to have created a pool. Mercedes-Benz’s group emissions were 17.3g above its target in 2024, and it was facing €1 billion in fines. For 2025, Mercedes and Smart will pool with Volvo and Polestar. The four firms have an 8% share of the market and a 20% share of the EV market.
Other Major Automakers Are Holding Out
Several of the world’s largest automakers have yet to announce pooling for 2025, despite every one of them currently being above the required targets for this year. These include Honda, VW, Kia, BMW, SAIC, Hyundai, Suzuki, and Renault Nissan Mitsubishi.
Pooling essentially works like this: automakers purchase emissions credits from other brands to lower their fleet averages. Tesla, as the industry’s reigning king of emissions credits, is cashing in big time. According to Reuters, nearly 3% of Tesla’s $72 billion in revenue from the first nine months of 2024 came from selling carbon credits.
And that’s just the beginning. UBS analysts led by Patrick Hummel estimate that Tesla’s compensation could exceed €1 billion in Europe alone this year if it monetizes its entire emissions credit surplus, as reported by Bloomberg.
The former chair of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association and current Renault chief executive Luca De Meo has previously said that European car brands are starring down up to €15 billion in fines if they don’t meet 2025 targets.
Police used data collected from the exploded Tesla Cybertruck in Las Vegas to learn more about the perpetrator.
That data included his location, where he charged the truck, and even messages he sent while in the vehicle.
This highlights that anyone in connected cars faces similar tracking – and some data collected are really troubling.
For most of the history of the automobile, the car symbolized freedom, a ticket to the open road, a personal sanctuary on wheels. But in the digital age, that once-sacred space has turned into a surveillance tool for third parties, tracking data to an extent most people would never suspect.
That’s all the more evident after police used data collected by Tesla to learn more about the Cybetruck explosion that happened on January 1 outside the Trump hotel in Las Vegas.
“I have to thank Elon Musk, specifically,” said Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill at a press conference. “He gave us quite a bit of additional information.“ That information included where the truck had been, how it made its trip from Colorado Springs to Las Vegas, and more.
While you and your loved ones might not have any sort of negative intentions, your car might track you in the same way that Cybertruck tracked the attacker.
Constant Surveillance: A Double-Edged Sword
To David Choffnes of the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at Northeastern University, this really is an indication of just how much everyday citizens are under surveillance. “It reveals the kind of sweeping surveillance going on… When something bad happens, it’s helpful, but it’s a double-edged sword. Companies that collect this data can abuse it,” he told Newser. And he’s far from wrong or misguided in that thinking.
General Motors stopped sharing consumer data with LexisNexis and Verisk after reports highlighted how detailed that data was and how in some instances, it led to higher insurance premiums for owners. In May of 2024, a report surfaced saying that of 14 automakers, only five required a warrant when authorities asked for location data. Just a month ago, a security flaw found that some 800,000 Volkswagen owners had their GPS data, vehicle status, and more accessible online to just about anyone.
Automakers Want To Know Your Political And Religious Beliefs… And Sex Life!
It’s not just GPS data that car companies collect either. Here’s a blurb from Kia’s website Privacy Policy section about what it’ll collect when it comes to what the company itself labels as “Personal Sensitive Information”:
“This category may include Social Security number, driver’s license, state identification card, or passport number; account log-in, financial account, debit card, or credit card number in combination with any required security or access code, password, or credentials allowing access to an account; precise geolocation; racial or ethnic origin, religious or philosophical beliefs; union membership; genetic data; unique biometric information; citizenship or immigration status; contents of certain mail, emails, and text messages; or health, sex life or sexual orientation information.”
If that wasn’t enough already, in “Professional Or Employment-Related Information”, the Korean automaker says that it collects “current or past job history or performance evaluations.” That’s right, we hope you filed those TPS reports because if you didn’t, Kia could tell the next company you want to work for.
Again, Kia and Tesla aren’t alone in this. Many major brands employ the same tactics. Volvo, for instance, also states in its Customer Privacy Policy that it collects “Sensitive Personal Data”, which it defines as follows:
“Personal Data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, or trade union membership, and the Processing of genetic data, biometric data for the purpose of uniquely identifying a natural person, data concerning health or data concerning a natural person’s sex life or sexual orientation.”
Who Guards The Guardians?
All this raises some very serious questions. Why on earth should a car company be interested in gathering information about things like one’s performance evaluations, religious beliefs, political opinions, sex life, or sexual orientation? And who ensures that those data won’t be used for nefarious purposes?
Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety” inadvertently springs to mind. And while one of the Founding Fathers couldn’t possibly, in the 18th century, have imagined things such as cellphones and connected cars, and the government is supposed to safeguard our privacy, there seem to be no guarantees.
Moreover, the Mozilla Foundation points out that “When all of the 25 car brands we reviewed earn our *Privacy Not Included warning label for failing to respect and protect their customers’ privacy, something is seriously wrong”. So, you may want to think twice before pushing that “OK” or “Accept” tab on your car’s infotainment screen when (or should we say if?) it asks you about collecting your data.
PROS ›› Price, electric range, comfortable ride, modern design, cargo space, generous equipment CONS ›› Rear seats don’t slide, currently only one motor, 400-volt electrics, muted interior colors
The Soul EV introduced the idea of zero emissions driving to Kia buyers, but its replacement, the 2025 EV3, promises to be better in every way, and doesn’t cost any more to buy.
On-paper at least, the EV3 seems to tick every box. It borrows its EV9 big brother’s confident, modern design, delivers a great driving range and is well equipped. But it’s got some strong rivals in the Volvo EX30 and Skoda’s new Elroq.
QUICK FACTS
› Model:
2025 Kia EV3
› Starting Price:
£32,995 (equates to $41,850, US prices TBC)
› Dimensions:
4,300 mm (169.3 in.) L
1,850 mm (72.8 in.) W
1,560 mm (61.4 in.) H
2,680 mm (105.5 in) Wheelbase
› Curb Weight:
1,885 kg (4,155 lbs)*
› Powertrain:
Single electric motor, 58.3 kWh or 81.4 kWh battery
› Output:
201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW) and 209 lb-ft (283 Nm)
› 0-62 mph:
7.5-7.9 seconds (0-100 km/h)*
› Transmission:
Single speed
› Range:
361-375 miles (581-604 km) WLTP
› On Sale:
Now (Europe, late 2025 for US)
*Manufacturer
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What’s Under The Hood?
Choosing an EV3 at launch in Europe means first deciding how far you want to go between charges, though every version lasts longer than the old Soul EV. The base Standard Range battery – only available in the entry-level Air trim (pictured on the left above) – measures 58.3 kWh and is good for 270 WLTP miles (435 km) on a charge, which is probably fine for people planning to use the SUV for urban duties.
But if you do want to stretch its legs, or don’t have easy access to a charger at home, the Long Range option adds a bigger 81.4 kWh battery that can take an Air to 375 miles (604 km). Plusher GT-Line (right of pic) and GT-Line S (center) models only come with the bigger pack, but their extra weight and bigger wheels reduces the range to around 362 miles (583 km), which is still great. Even the EV9 with its huge 96 kWh battery can’t touch those numbers.
Kia is working on adding dual-motor and even faster GT versions, but those will come later. At launch the only power option is a single, front-mounted motor making 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW).
How Does It Drive?
Kia’s European cars have a different suspension tune to those in the US and Korea, and tend to err on the sporty side of comfortable. But the engineers took a more relaxed position with the EV3 and the result is a car that rides bumps incredibly well in Air form on the stock 17-inch wheels. GT-Line cars upgrade to 19 inches and don’t feel anywhere near as supple, but even they aren’t uncomfortable, and the shorter tire sidewalls sharpen the steering.
The EV3 isn’t the kind of car that encourages you to go crazy as soon as the road turns twisty (maybe that will change when the GT arrives), but it has a well-rounded chassis package that’s still fun to to drive, feels well suited to family use and is good match for the single-motor drivetrain.
Fastest of the bunch is the lightest, the Air SR, which runs from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.5 seconds, while the bigger battery adds a 0.2 second penalty and the heavier GT trim the same amount again. So you won’t be hanging with a Rimac Nevera from the lights, but you always feel like you’ve got enough go to keep up with real traffic, to nip through gaps and overtake when you need. The base EV, remember, takes more than 9 seconds to hit 62. Tapping the steering wheel paddles lets you switch in multiple stages between almost no regenerative braking effect to virtually one-pedal driving.
What’s The Interior Like?
If you’re a fan of the way Kia has shrunk the EV9’s exterior styling down to work on the EV3, you’ll love the smaller car’s cabin, too. As on the three-row SUV, you get a pair of 12.3-inch screens, one for the instruments and a second that’s a touchscreen, separated by a smaller display used to operate some of the climate control functions.
It looks great and works well with a couple of minor exceptions. One is that the main touchscreen is a bit of a stretch away and the second is that the climate section is partially hidden behind the steering wheel, though you do at least get hard keys on the dash to tweak the temperature.
Another minor complaint is just how grey it is inside the Air-spec cars (shown above). There’s acres of light-medium grey plastic everywhere, which helps make an otherwise stylish cabin look a little drab. The fact that the GT-Line cars have extra trim that lifts the ambience, plus a sportier three-spoke wheel, might be enough to persuade you to upgrade.
But even the base £32,995 Air is well equipped. It gets a heated wheel and front seats, parking sensors and a rear camera, various electronic safety features and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Stepping up to £39,495 GT-Line, as Kia expects most drivers to do, brings 19-inch wheels, privacy glass, artificial leather and lumber support for the seats, a wireless phone charger, LED headlights and a digital key.
On GT-Line cars you also get a strange slide-out, front-seat armrest that’s meant to work as a table for your laptop, but it does ruin the armrest storage space and kind of looks like a kitchen counter. And lastly, £42,995 GT-Line S trim adds ventilated relaxation seats, a 360-degree camera, power tailgate, sunroof, head-up display, a Harmon Kardon audio system and the option of a £900 heat pump.
How Roomy Is It?
You don’t expect limo-like comfort from an affordable SUV riding on a compact 2,680-mm (105.5 inches) wheelbase. But the EV3 is a surprisingly useful family tool. It’ll accommodate four adults easily and dropping the two-deck cargo area floor to its lower setting gives a handy 460 liters (16.2 cu-ft) of luggage space.
Volvo’s EX30 only offers 318 liters (11.2 cu-ft), though the Skoda Elroq just tops the Kia by serving up an additional, though hardly deal-breaking, 10 liters (0.35 cu-t). A sliding rear seat would have made the EV3 even more practical, but then the Volvo and Skoda don’t get that feature either.
How Long Does It Take To Charge?
One of the few EV3 disappointments is that it makes do with 400-volt electrics rather than inheriting the 800-volt setup used by the more expensive EV6 and EV9. The result is slower charging speeds, the SR battery models charging at a maximum of just 101 kW and needing 29 minutes to fill from 10-80 percent, while the LR pack can accept a slightly better 128 kW so only needs 2 additional minutes to go from 10-80 despite its bigger capacity.
A Skoda Elroq charges at between 145-175 kW depending on the model, so can be topped up a few minutes faster, though the difference isn’t huge. But it’s a shame the EV3 can’t fill up in 18 minutes like the 800-volt EV6 can.
Verdict
Kia has done it again. In the EV3 it’s built a fantastic small EV that’s great to look at, well built, comfortable, and has a usefully large range and trunk. A dual-motor option and sporty GT model coming later will broaden its appeal, and some extra interior color and faster charging would be welcome, but most buyers looking for an affordable electric SUV are going to find the EV3 just fine the way it is.
European drivers can get their hands on a an EV3 now, but America won’t be able to buy one for at least a year, the one upside being that it will cost far less – around $30,000-35,000 when it does go on sale. And by the time the EV3 does arrive stateside, both Europe and America will also be introduced to the bigger EV5 already on sale in China. Based on our experience with the EV3, it could be the best family EV of its generation.
Hyundai sold 836,802 vehicles in the United States last year to achieve a new annual record.
Kia America also posted record annual sales of 796,488 units.
The success was largely due to crossovers, but sedans and EVs also helped.
Hyundai and Kia have a lot to celebrate as both achieved record sales last year. Starting with the latter, Kia sold 796,488 vehicles in the United States to beat their previous all-time sales record.
The Sportage was the most popular model as it achieved an all-time annual sales record of 161,917 units. It was followed by the K4/Forte (139,778) and Telluride, which also broke its annual sales record as customers snapped up 115,504 crossovers.
Kia EV sales soared 74% and accounted for 7% of sales for the entire year. The EV9 found 22,017 takers, while the EV6 wasn’t far behind at 21,715.
However, everything wasn’t rosy as K5 sales fell 28% to 46,311 units. The Niro, Soul, and Seltos also posted declines.
Kia 2024 U.S. Sales
DECEMBER
YEAR
Model
2024
2023
2024
2023
EV9
1,951
1,113
22,017
1,118
EV6
2,111
1,249
21,715
18,879
Rio
0
1,279
1,917
26,804
K4/Forte
11,911
9,576
139,778
123,953
K5
5,639
4,866
46,311
64,772
Stinger
0
11
0
5,452
Soul
3,650
3,399
52,397
61,263
Niro
1,792
2,441
30,094
36,300
Seltos
3,737
4,425
59,958
60,053
Sportage
15,427
11,133
161,917
140,780
Sorento
9,432
7,739
95,154
88,625
Telluride
12,488
9,441
115,504
110,765
Carnival
5,165
3,603
49,726
43,687
Total
73,303
60,275
796,488
782,451
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Moving onto Hyundai, they sold 836,802 vehicles in the United States last year to hit a new record. The company also achieved record retail sales of 742,009 units, while several models – including the Palisade, Ioniq 5, Tucson Hybrid, and Santa Fe Hybrid – posted their own yearly sales records.
The Tucson led the way with 206,126 sales, which was down 2% from last year. The model was followed by the Elantra (136,698) and Santa Fe (119,010).
While a surprising number of models posted year-over-year declines, the Ioniq 5 was up 31% to 44,400 units. Palisade sales soared 23% to 110,055 units and that’s notable as a redesigned model is on the horizon.
On the flip side, the Santa Cruz was down 13% to 32,033 units. The value-focused Venue was down 12%, while the Ioniq 6 was off 6%. Interestingly, the Sonata eschewed the K5’s fate as sales jumped 53% to 69,343 units.
Hyundai Motor North America CEO Randy Parker said, “This was an incredible record-breaking year for Hyundai, largely driven by the success of offering consumers a variety of product and powertrain options that fit their needs.” He went on to suggest this will continue thanks to new models such as the Ioniq 9.
PROS ›› Good electric range, fast charging, stylish, better infotainment CONS ›› Shallow cargo space, rear foot room, firm ride
The EV6 wasn’t Kia’s first electric car, but it’s the one that really cemented the Korean automaker’s place at the forefront of the modern EV revolution. Sharp styling, a long range and fast charging speeds helped win it numerous awards and thousands of customers, but the three-year old fastback has now been facelifted to help out battle newer rivals, including its own already-revised Hyundai Ioniq 5 cousin. We grabbed some seat time in Europe to see what the facelifted EV6 has to offer ahead of its arrival in U.S. and Canadian showrooms next spring.
QUICK FACTS
› Model:
2025 Kia EV6
› Starting Price:
£45,575 (equates to $57,652 but US prices TBC)
› Dimensions:
4,695 mm (184.8 in.) L
1,880 mm (74.0 in.) W
1,550 mm (61.0 in.) H
2,900 mm (114.2 in) Wheelbase
› Curb Weight:
2,050 kg (4,520 lbs)*
› Powertrain:
Single electric motor, 84 kWh battery
› Output:
225 hp (228 PS / 168 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft)
› 0-62 mph:
7.7 seconds (0-100 km/h)*
› Transmission:
Single speed
› Range:
361 miles (581 km) WLTP, 319 miles (513 km) EPA
› On Sale:
Now in Europe, North American sales begin spring 2025
*Manufacturer
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What’s new?
Things change even more rapidly in the EV segment than they do for normal ICE cars, with non-stop tech advances quickly making older EVs looks outdated and impractical. But the EV6 was so advanced when it appeared in 2021 that Kia hasn’t felt the need to do much beyond making some subtle improvements.
So the exterior design is little changed, the most obvious tweaks being the new headlights, although the lower bodyside moldings, wheels, bumpers and distinctive full-width rear light bar are also refreshed. The modest update means the curvy EV6 has quite a different look to Kia’s latest cars like the EV3, EV9 and combustion-powered K4, but it still presents as modern and exciting.
There are also some interior changes, which we’ll get to later, and bigger battery packs to increase the already respectable range figures. All cars in the UK, where we drove the EV6, now come with a 84 kWh battery (up from 77.4 kWh), while in markets that offer two sizes, like the US, the base battery steps up from 58 to 63 kWh. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 received the same upgrade when it was facelifted at the beginning of this year.
What’s the lineup?
While the US will carry over the availability of a single-motor base car with 167 hp (169 PS / 125 kW), the UK lineup skips that and goes straight for the 225 hp (228 PS / 168 kW) version, but also driving only the rear wheels.
A dual-motor version provides all-wheel drive and a bump to 320 hp (324 PS / 239 kW), and as before the even more powerful GT tops the lineup. That inherits the Ioniq 5 N’s 641 hp with overboost (650 PS / 478 kW) setup and fake transmission for 2025, but we’ll have to wait to drive that one another time.
Prices start at £45,575 for the base model 225 hp Air and top out at £58,125 for the GT-Line S with the optional heat pump. GT prices, and prices for US models, will be announced later.
How’s the interior?
Much like the exterior mods, the changes to the interior focus on refining what’s already there, rather than ripping it up and starting again. So while the general layout of the interior and console is familiar, the dashboard is improved by a pair of 12.3-inch digital displays hidden behind a single pain of glass that’s now more rectangular. It brings the EV6 closer to newer models like the EV9, though the EV6 retains its strip of touch sensitive buttons below its air vents rather than adopt the SUV’s rocker switches. I prefer the EV’s setup.
GT-Line cars get a sporty three-spoke steering wheel, but base-model Air trim in the UK (and their ‘Light’ equivalents in the US) still has the old two-spoke rim. All trims get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto this time, but they keep last year’s unnecessarily large center console that blocks access to the storage area below. Swapping the rotary gear selector for the EV9’s twistable column shifter would have allowed a big chunk of the console to be chopped away and improved practicality.
Other minor grumbles are the poor visibility resulting from the thick rear pillars and a cargo bay that’s a little shallow, capping the space available at a so-so 490 liters (17.3 cu-ft). Single-motor models augment that with a usable frunk, but it shrinks to almost nothing when you spec a front motor.
Rear passenger space, however, is huge. There’s plenty of knee-room, and headroom isn’t bad despite the sloping roofline. But because the front seats are mounted so low rear riders can’t get their feet under them, which is going to make long journeys uncomfortable.
How does it drive?
The EV6’s sporty profile promises a good time behind the wheel, and even if the experience isn’t as dynamic as what the far more expensive Porsche Taycan serves up, the tight suspension and relatively low center of gravity mean it’s more agile than some other electric cars. Even without the flagship GT’s torque vectoring, the regular models steer smartly and put their power down cleanly.
True, the ride is on the firm side, an almost inevitable payoff for the good body control, but it’s never harsh. Think 2000s-era Fords, but with a bit more polish, and also a bit more precision than last year’s EV6 thanks to additional body strengthening and improved steering response.
We didn’t drive the GT, but the regular dual-motor car is no slouch. It gets to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.3 seconds, which is almost a match for a Tesla Model Y (4.8 seconds), and pushes you back in your seat between 10-50 mph (16-80 km/h) hard enough to make you feel slightly nauseous, like fast EVs do.
The single-motor EV6 isn’t anything like as rapid, needing 7.7 seconds for the 62 mph run compared with just 5.7 seconds for the similarly priced RWD Model Y, but the surprise is it never feels truly sluggish thanks to the instant throttle response. Factor in the extra agility that comes from the lighter curb weight and better weight distribution, plus the lower price and longer range, and you could easily argue that it’s the pick of the lineup.
How far will I go on a charge?
Upping the battery size has stretched the WLTP range in the entry-level, single-motor EV6 from 328 miles (528 km) to 361 miles (581 km), while the US specs for the same model list the range climbing 9 miles (15 km) to 319 miles (513 km).
The dual-motor car is now rated at up to 339 miles (546 km) rather than 314 miles (505 km) in Europe, but we don’t yet have EPA numbers for that one. What hasn’t changed is the charging speeds, which were already super-quick due to the E-GMP platform’s 800-volt electrics. Find a charger kicking out at least 260 kW and you can take the battery from 10-80 percent in 18 minutes.
What else do I need to know?
Remember how Hyundai bowed to customer pressure and put a rear wiper on the facelifted Ioniq 5? Sadly, Kia didn’t rectify the same mistake on the EV6. And although all versions of the EV6 charge at the same speed, charging will be a less comfortable experience in the entry-level Air because it doesn’t get the powered lie-flat seats fitted to GT and GT-Line S models.
Otherwise, the Air is well equipped, coming with 19-inch alloys, heated seats and wheel and adaptive cruise control. GT-Line cars get wireless phone charging, privacy glass and sportier trim, including the three-spoke steering wheel, while GT-Line S versions ramp up the luxury with 20-inch rims, a head-up display and ventilation for the front seats and heating for the rears.
Another important factoid for US buyers is that the Georgia-built EV6s arriving in showrooms next year will feature a North American Charging Standard (NACS) socket. UK cars obviously don’t get the same upgrade.
Verdict
There wasn’t much wrong with the EV6, which was deservedly named European Car of the Year in 2022, but Kia has still managed to improve it in some key areas. The most useful of those is the bigger battery, which should now mean most owners see close to 300 true miles (483 km) between charges in the single-motor, rear-drive car, and we also like the new infotainment system and wireless CarPlay functionality.
The tweaks should help keep the EV6 on most EV buyers’ shortlists if not necessarily in top position, though by this time next year it will have some awkward opposition on its hands. That’s when Kia launches the EV5, and considering the EV9 has already had a detrimental impact on EV6 sales despite costing far more, the smaller SUV is bound to steal some attention. But until then, or for buyers determined not to buy an SUV or a Tesla Model Y, the EV6 remains a great electric buy.
Hyundai electric vehicle owners will be able to request a free NACS adapter early next year.
Eligible vehicles include the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 5 N, Ioniq 6, Kona Electric, and even the old Ioniq Electric.
Genesis will also give customers a free adapter and details about their program will be announced in early 2025.
Hyundai EV owners are getting a last minute Christmas gift in the form of a North American Charging Standard (NACS) adapter. It will be free to customers who have purchased or leased an eligible vehicle on or before January 31, 2025.
The adapter will enable users to charge at over 20,000 Tesla Superchargers. In order to secure one, owners will need to log into the MyHyundai portal and make a request starting in the first quarter of 2025. Hyundai will then ship out the adapter at no charge.
Eligible models include the 2024 and earlier Kona Electric, Ioniq hatchback, Ioniq 5, and Ioniq 6. They’re joined by the 2025 Ioniq 5 N, 2025 Ioniq 6, and 2025 Kona Electric. The 2025 Ioniq 5 is absent from the list as it’s the first non-Tesla vehicle on sale to have a factory-installed NACS port.
Hyundai Motor North America’s senior vice president of product planning and mobility strategy, Olabisi Boyle, said “These adapters will make DC fast-charging more convenient for current owners. Plus, the NACS port on new models like the upcoming Ioniq 9 along with improvements to our digital charging ecosystem, will further enhance the customer experience for future EV drivers.”
If you accidently lose your adapter or forget to request one, they’ll be available to purchase at Hyundai dealers in the future.
In related news, Genesis announced it is also participating in the program. Details will be released early next year, but it will likely benefit owners of the GV60 as well as electric versions of the GV70 and G80.
Kia America announced their program last fall and it will see EV6 and EV9 owners receive an adapter early next year. They’ll then gain access to Tesla’s Supercharger network around January 15.
The facelifted Kia EV6 GT has been launched in Korea ahead of its US market launch in H1 2025.
The performance flagship of the EV6 lineup looks very similar to the milder GT-Line trim.
The GT gains a stronger powertrain with up to 645 hp, fake gears, and a larger 84 kWh battery.
Kia has given us our first look at the new GT version of the facelifted EV6 in Korea, introducing a host of styling, tech, and mechanical enhancements over its well-received predecessor.
The refreshed EV6 first debuted in May 2024, with the North American-spec version making its appearance in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. At the time, Kia only showed us the standard and GT-Line trims, so this marks our first proper look at the flagship GT variant.
Subtle Yet Sporty Upgrades
Predictably, the EV6 GT borrows heavily from the GT-Line trim, sharing the same aggressive bodykit and sleek, slimmer LED lights. But a closer look reveals a few key design flourishes that set the GT apart.
For starters, the GT rolls on an exclusive set of 21-inch alloy wheels, paired with striking lime-green brake calipers. The differences don’t end there—look to the bumper intakes, where the GT sports a unique pattern, alongside a redesigned rear diffuser and vertical reflectors replacing the GT-Line’s horizontal ones.
The exterior color palette adds further distinction. While the Wolf Gray option grabs attention in the press shots, other hues include Snow White Pearl, Runway Red, Aurora Black Pearl, and the Yacht Matte Blue. Inside, the GT-exclusive “Black & Neon” theme continues the lime-green accents on black leather and suede upholstery.
Tech-wise, the EV6 GT keeps up with modern expectations, adding a curved digital cockpit that integrates dual 12.3-inch displays, augmented reality navigation, and a reworked steering wheel. Sports bucket seats now come with 8-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, making sure you stay planted, comfortable, and cool.
More Power And Simulated Gearbox
In addition to the welcome exterior and interior upgrades, the 2026 Kia EV6 GT benefits from extra grunt and a larger battery, matching the specs of the mechanically related Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
The dual-motor AWD powertrain produces a combined 601 hp (448 kW / 609 PS) and 740 Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque, which can grow to 645 hp (481 kW / 654 PS) and 770 Nm (568 lb-ft) using the temporary boost function.
When launch control is activated, the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint can be completed in 3.5 seconds. Despite the extra power (+65 hp and +23 lb-ft), the acceleration figure is identical to the pre-facelifted EV6 GT, making it 0.1 seconds slower than the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
What sets the EV6 GT apart from the pre-facelift model is the Virtual Gear Shift system borrowed from the Hyundai. Yes, it’s a bit gimmicky, but for those nostalgic for internal combustion drama, this faux gearbox simulates shifts with sound effects and torque modulation. Whether you’ll find it engaging or a novelty that wears thin after a few miles is up for debate—but at least Kia is trying to inject some personality into the EV experience.
Other standard performance goodies include the electronically controlled suspension, and the electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD).
Range Gains And Familiar Fast-Charging
Last but not least, thanks to a new 84 kWh battery (up from 77.4 kWh), the EV6 GT offers a modest boost in range, now reaching 355 km (221 miles) under Korea’s testing protocols. Official EPA figures haven’t landed yet, but expect something slightly below this mark. As with the previous model, the battery supports 350 kW fast charging, letting you juice up from 10–80% in just under 18 minutes.
Pricing And Availability
The EV6 GT is already available to order in Korea, with North American deliveries scheduled to start in the first half of 2025. Despite the added performance and tech, Kia has held Korean pricing steady at ₩72.2 million ($51,800 after subsidies). Whether the U.S.-spec model will maintain its predecessor’s $61,600 MSRP remains to be seen, but if so, it’ll remain a strong choice for anyone eyeing the upper echelon of performance EVs.
The Hyundai Motor Group is recalling more than 200,000 EVs that can lose drive power.
An assortment of models are impacted including the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, and Genesis GV60, GV70 Electrified, and GV80 Electrified.
As part of the recall, dealers will update software as well as check and replace the integrated charging control unit as necessary.
The Hyundai Motor Group is recalling 208,107 electric vehicles in the United States as they can suffer a loss of drive power. The problem centers on the integrated charging control unit, which can be damaged and prevent the 12-volt battery from charging.
The recall is broken up into two parts and one includes 62,872 Kia EV6s from the 2022-2024 model years. The second part is larger as it involves 145,235 vehicles including the 2022-2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5, 2023-2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6, 2023-2024 Genesis G80 Electrified, 2023-2025 Genesis GV70 Electrified, and 2023-2025 Genesis GV60.
According to the government, the integrated charging control unit may be damaged from transient high voltage and thermal cycling over time. This can eventually prevent the 12-volt battery from charging, leading it to gradually drain. If this occurs, drivers will be warned something is amiss and may experience “progressive reductions of motive power.” If they continue, the vehicle may eventually lose all drive power.
The EV6s were involved in a recall earlier this year, but a supposedly ‘fixed’ vehicle experienced a loss of drive power in May. This sparked an investigation and Kia eventually found “88 unique cases that allege loss of motive power” following the initial recall. Thankfully, no crashes, injuries, fatalities or fires were reported.
On the Hyundai and Genesis side, there were 57 reports between March 25 and November 5 of this year. None resulted in any injuries or crashes.
Owner notifications are slated to be sent out in the coming weeks and the remedy will see dealers inspect and replace the integrated charging control unit, as well as its fuse, as necessary. In addition, dealers will install updated software that “optimizes thermal management and peak voltage during operation.” Unfortunately for technicians, this is a huge pain as the fix for the EV6 is 26 steps long and involves removing underbody paneling as well as taking out the rear seat.
The punchy three-row electric SUV can hit 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
Drivers can use the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to change gears.
A system to replicate the sounds of traditional gear shifts has also been added.
The long-awaited Kia EV9 GT has finally broken cover at the Los Angeles Auto Show, stepping into the limelight as the brand’s most powerful three-row SUV to date. Following the formula set by the EV6 GT, the EV9 GT dials up performance and attitude for Kia’s electric flagship, even if it holds back slightly on outright power compared to its smaller sibling.
Power to the People
While the two electric motors in the EV6 GT combine to produce 576 hp, the new EV9 GT has been capped at 501 hp. Driving the front wheels is a 214 hp motor, while located at the rear is a 362 hp unit. There’s no word on why Kia didn’t give the EV9 GT the same amount of power as the range-topping EV6, but it’ll still hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.3 seconds, which is a very impressive figure for a vehicle of this size.
Sharper Handling Meets GT Badging
To give the EV9 GT some genuine dynamic credibility, Kia has equipped it with selectable, electronically controlled suspension that adjusts alongside steering and brake responses. Modes like Normal, Eco, Sport, and My Drive provide versatility, but for maximum fun, there’s a lime-green GT button on the steering wheel that transforms the SUV into full attack mode.
One standout quirk is the Virtual Gear Shift system. Mimicking the experience of a traditional gearbox, it offers simulated “gear shifts” and even limits acceleration at the so-called ‘rev limit.’ Hyundai pulled a similar trick with the Ioniq 5 N, and while it’s likely to divide opinion, paddle shifters and an Active Sound Design system attempt to inject a dose of driver engagement. Kia has also added an electronic limited-slip differential for improved cornering grip, bolstering the EV9 GT’s performance credentials further.
Range Anxiety? No Comment
Kia has yet to release official range figures for the EV9 GT. For now, buyers will have to live with some unanswered questions about how far this performance-focused SUV can travel on a single charge. What we do know is that it’s equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug and supports rapid DC charging. With the right charger, the battery can be replenished from 10% to 80% in under 25 minutes.
Subtle Aggression in Design
In typical Kia GT fashion, the EV9 GT’s visual upgrades are restrained but effective. It rides on bespoke 21-inch wheels, which frame larger, green-painted brake calipers. The front fascia gets minor revisions, including active air flaps and tweaked lighting elements, while the green accents continue inside. The cabin benefits from GT-specific sport seats with Alcantara inserts, unique ambient lighting, and a smattering of GT badges to remind you that this isn’t your standard EV9.
Kia America COO and EVP Steven Center sums it up: “The EV9 has been a home run for Kia, introducing the first mass-market electric three-row SUV, and the EV9 GT includes all those wonderful elements while amping up the fun factor significantly. This new halo trim is set to spark the hearts of driving enthusiasts who still need the practicality of a six-passenger SUV.”
Delayed Gratification
All EV9 GTs will be produced in South Korea, with the first units expected to arrive in U.S. dealerships in the second half of 2025. Pricing remains under wraps, but given Kia’s track record with its GT models, expect it to undercut rivals while still offering a mix of performance and practicality.
Kia brings the facelifted EV6 stateside, three years after the debut of the original.
The electric crossover looks sharper and features more tech inside the cabin.
The EV6 GT gains a power boost, with the entire range featuring larger batteries.
The Kia EV6 has already proven to be a practical and fun electric crossover, and for the 2025 model year, it promises to get even better. With a fresh look, upgraded tech, and a bit more performance, the EV6 facelift makes its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, following its earlier introduction in Korea and Europe. It now offers a longer range, improved handling, and a more aggressive design. The GT trim, meanwhile, gets a substantial power boost—along with the addition of simulated gear shifts.
Exterior Revisions
The first thing you’ll notice on the outside is the redesigned front fascia, now featuring slimmer LED headlights and more streamlined air intakes. The side profile sees fresh wheel designs and subtle tweaks to the cladding, while the rear boasts new LED taillight graphics and a revised bumper. While these changes are incremental, they manage to freshen up the EV6 without diluting its signature silhouette.
The facelift also brought an increase of 0.6 inches (15 mm) in length, due to the slightly longer front overhang. Overall, this reinterpretation of Kia’s Opposites United styling language is slightly different from the rest of the lineup, allowing the EV6 to retain its curved lines and sporty stance.
Interior
Inside, the crossover adopts a new curved digital cockpit with dual 12.3-inch displays. Other changes include a redesigned steering wheel and a new finish for the center console. The displays can be customized with the colors and logo of your favorite NBA team, through the Kia Connect Store. Finally, the ADAS suite has been improved, and the cabin is quieter thanks to additional sound-absorbing materials.
Bigger Batteries and Extended Range
The 2025 EV6 ditches its smaller 58 kWh and 77.4 kWh battery options in favor of larger 63 kWh and 84 kWh packs shared with he facelifted Hyundai Ioniq 5. This upgrade results in a maximum range of up to 319 miles (513 km) for the top-spec 84 kWh RWD model, a modest but welcome improvement of 9 miles (15 km) over the outgoing Long Range RWD trim. In addition, towing capacity sees an uptick to 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg), further boosting the EV6’s utility credentials.
Charging remains swift thanks to the retained 800-volt DC fast charging architecture, although Kia has relocated the charging port to the left rear fender for most trims (excluding the GT), now supporting the North American Charging Standard (NACS).
Drivetrain
Power
Torque
Battery
Range
EV6 Light
RWD
167 hp
258 lb-ft
63 kWh
–
Light LR Wind GT-Line
RWD
225 hp
258 lb-ft
84 kWh
319 miles
Light LR Wind GT-Line
e-AWD
320 hp
446 lb-ft
84 kWh
–
EV6 GT
e-AWD
641 hp
568 lb-ft
84 kWh
–
SWIPE
The 2025 Kia EV6 is available with single (RWD) and dual (AWD) electric motors, which are carried over from its predecessor in the non-GT trims (Light, Light Long Range, Wind, GT-Line). The ride and handling of the E-GMP-based model have been upgraded, courtesy of an improved steering response, and a reinforced chassis.
More Power for the GT Trim
At the top of the lineup, the 2025 Kia EV6 GT takes cues from its sibling, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Its dual-motor system now cranks out a hefty 601 hp (448 kW / 609 PS), with a temporary boost to 645 hp (481 kW / 654 PS) in GT mode. This upgrade delivers 65 additional horses and 23 lb-ft (31 Nm) more torque than the outgoing GT, making it a more serious contender in the performance EV space.
In true Hyundai-Kia fashion, the EV6 GT also borrows the Virtual Gear Shift feature from the Ioniq 5 N, which uses sound effects and torque modulation to mimic the sensation of gear changes.
Launch
The 2025 Kia EV6 (excluding the GT) will be assembled alongside the larger EV9 at Kia’s facility in Georgia. Sales are set to begin in the first half of next year, with pricing details to be revealed closer to launch.
A new study has revealed the models that are expected to have the highest resale values after three years of ownership.
Lexus had the most model-level awards, but GM racked up five wins including two for the GMC Hummer EV lineup.
The Dodge Charger Daytona is expected to be the electric vehicle resale champ.
Depreciation is a fact of life, but what you buy has a big impact on resale values down the line. To help consumers, J.D. Power has released their 2025 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards which highlight the vehicles that are projected to hold the highest percentage of their manufacturer’s suggested retail price after three years of ownership.
The winners aren’t exactly a surprise as Honda and Lexus walked away with top honors for the fourth consecutive year. J.D. Power’s Danny Battaglia credited part of this success to Honda’s pricing discipline as well as Lexus’ restraint on incentives, which can negatively impact resale values of older vehicles.
Besides being named the best premium brand, Lexus picked up the most model-level awards. Class honors went to the IS, LS, NX, RX, and TX. Their mainstream counterpart, Toyota, also picked up awards for the Camry and GR Supra as well as the Tundra and Land Cruiser.
Japanese models dominated the rankings as Honda scored wins for the Civic, Passport and Odyssey, while Subaru picked up accolades for the Crosstrek, Forester, and WRX. Other awards went to the Acura Integra and Nissan Kicks.
American brands might have played second fiddle, but GM racked up five wins. The Chevrolet Corvette was named the best “midsize premium sporty car,” while the Cadillac Escalade was the best large premium SUV. GMC also picked up awards for the Sierra 3500 HD as well as the Hummer EV Pickup and SUV.
Interestingly, the soon to be launched Dodge Charger Daytona was named the best electric car. While it remains to be seen what resale values will look like three years from now, electric coupes are virtually unheard of in America so the Charger Daytona doesn’t really have any competition.
Sticking with EVs, the Tesla Model 3 was dubbed the best premium electric car. The Hyundai Kona EV, on the other hand, was named best electric SUV.
Awards were also given to the BMW X1 and 5-Series, Jeep Gladiator and Wagoneer, and Kia Telluride. Mercedes’ only win was for the Sprinter, which took the commercial van class.
Kia has introduced an eco-friendly concept of its new EV3 crossover in South Korea.
It uses a combination of recycled plastics as well as components made from natural materials.
Among other features, the steering wheel is wrapped in a leather-like material made from apples.
Kia has quietly introduced a new EV3 concept known as the Study Car. It’s billed as a “vision for the next generation of eco-friendly vehicles.”
While electric vehicles are green by design, the study goes a step further as it incorporates natural and recycled materials inside and out. In total, the company used “22 recycling and natural material technologies” to replace 69 parts on the EV3.
Starting outside, plastic recovered from scrapped vehicles was used to make the concept’s bumpers and liftgate. They’re joined by a composite material that uses natural fibers as well as biopolymers derived from nature. This is used on the roof, rear spoiler, and mirror caps.
The eco-friendly upgrades continue inside with the use of “non-edible natural materials.” While that may sound a bit odd, the center console and steering wheel are wrapped in Apple Skin. It’s a leather-like material that is made by pulverizing apple waste from the food industry.
If apples aren’t your thing, the wireless smartphone charger is wrapped in mushroom waste-based leather. This isn’t a new idea, as Cadillac used Fine Mycelium on the charging mats and the door pockets of the Sollei concept.
Getting back to the EV3, there’s eco-friendly door trim and a dashboard that uses recycled plastic from things such as water bottles. Rounding out the highlights are special windows and taillights as well as tires that use natural rubber.
The Study Car was recently shown at the Namyang Research Center during the Eco-Friendly Materials and Vehicle Exhibition. Kia credited an unnamed official as saying, “The EV3 study car is the result of our responsible research toward sustainable resource circulation. We will continue to expand and develop low-carbon and recycled material technologies to secure the eco-friendliness of key vehicle materials.”
Kia will expand its crossover lineup in India with a new offering called Syros.
The model will feature a minivan-inspired silhouette and a “lounge-like” interior.
It will debut on December 19, and will reportedly offer ICE and EV options.
Update 12/16: Continuing its teaser campaign, Kia has published more revealing videos of the Kia Syros and confirmed that the global debut will take place in India on December 19.
Kia is ready to unveil a new small SUV offering, called the Syros. The model will make its global debut in India on December 19, featuring minivan-like proportions, a well-appointed equipment list, and what the company describes as an “innovative” seating arrangement.
The Syros forms a key part of Kia’s “Kia 2.0 Strategy” for India, which aims to meet the specific demands of local buyers while maintaining global appeal. Set to bridge the gap between the Sonet and the Seltos in the brand’s lineup, the Syros is poised to play a crucial role in Kia’s continued expansion in the region.
The name “Syros” follows Kia’s established pattern of using “S”-starting names for its SUVs, such as the Sonet, Seltos, Stonic, Sportage, and Sorento. While the company hasn’t revealed the exact inspiration behind the name, Syros is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, close to the more famous Mykonos.
From the teasers, the Syros presents a boxy silhouette reminiscent of a smaller Kia Carnival minivan, with a flat roofline and a nearly vertical tailgate. The profile features a prominent B-pillar, echoing design elements seen in models like the Hyundai Casper and Inster. Other design highlights include the LED headlights mounted on the edges of the bumper, and the L-shaped taillights flanking the rear windshield.
Gwanggu Lee, Managing Director and CEO of Kia India, noted that the new model incorporates a “progressive SUV design language that doesn’t follow the conventional SUV design anymore”. The CEO also promised it will offer “segment-first features, exceptional performance, and unparalleled comfort”, focused on the needs of Indian buyers.
As reported by Autocar India, Kia also revealed that the Syros will feature a “lounge-like” interior, with “futuristic features and an innovative seating layout”. The vehicle’s equipment list is expected to include a 10.25-inch infotainment display, powered and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose audio system, up to six airbags, and a range of advanced safety features.
At launch, the Kia Syros will be offered with two non-electrified powertrains – a turbo 1.0-liter gasoline and a 1.5-liter diesel – with a fully electric version rumored to join the lineup in future. Power will be transmitted to the front axle via a six-speed manual or a an automatic (six-speed torque converter or seven-speed dual-clutch).
The market launch of the Kia Syros in India is expected in early 2025. The fact that Kia published teasers of the SUV in its worldwide channels suggests it could also eventually be offered in other markets.
A camouflaged prototype of the upcoming Kia EV2 SUV was spotted testing in Europe
The all-electric model has a similar stance but a slightly smaller footprint than the Kia EV3.
According to Kia’s CEO, the EV2 will arrive in 2026, priced between €25k and €30k ($27k–$33k).
If you assumed Kia’s subcompact EV3 would be its smallest foray into the electric SUV segment, think again. These spy shots reveal that the Korean automaker is cooking up an even smaller EV, the Kia EV2, set for a 2026 release. This sub-compact contender is designed with the European market in mind, where space—and price—are at a premium.
Though Kia has teased details about its forthcoming model lineup, this is our first glimpse of the EV2 in the metal. The heavily camouflaged prototype could be easily mistaken for a Kia EV3 if it wasn’t for the redesigned greenhouse and the slightly smaller footprint.
The EV2 manages to pull off a mini-SUV stance, thanks to its upright nose, near-vertical windshield, and boxy silhouette, capped off with roof rails that give it a touch of ruggedness. Familiar styling cues, like the vertically stacked LED headlights and blacked-out pillars, link it to the larger EV siblings—the EV3, EV5, and EV9. Interestingly, the taillights sit lower than you’d expect, though these might just be placeholder units. The prototype also rolls on smart-looking alloy wheels with a machined finish.
Inside, the modern headrests on the seats are similar to the EV3, while we can see what appears to be a digital instrument cluster. While the rest of the dashboard remains covered, a separate infotainment display seems to protrude from the center—a shift from Kia’s usual single-panel screen setup.
The Kia EV2 is expected to measure around 4,000 mm (157.5 inches) in length. That makes it longer than its Hyundai sibling, the Inster, which measures 3,825 mm (150.6 inches) and competes in the A-SUV category. However, it’s still shorter than the MINI Aceman at 4,079 mm (160.6 inches) and the Jeep Avenger at 4,084 mm (160.8 inches), both on the smaller end of the B-SUV segment. For reference, the Kia EV3 is significantly larger at 4,300 mm (169.3 inches), putting it at the upper end of the same category.
Underpinning the EV2 could be a shorter version of Kia’s E-GMP platform. Chances are that the model will be available with a single electric motor and a smaller battery pack, as it is aimed squarely at budget-conscious buyers who want electric without breaking the bank.
Kia’s CEO, Song Hu-sung, has indicated that the EV2 will aim for a price between €25,000 and €30,000 (around $27,000 to $33,000 at current exchange rates). Production is scheduled to begin in Slovakia, with the car expected in showrooms by 2026.
And the EV2 might not be the last of Kia’s mini EVs. The Korean brand is already contemplating an even tinier and cheaper EV1, which could eventually replace the Picanto as Kia’s smallest offering in Europe.
The EV9 could be about to receive an X-Pro variant similar to the Sportage and Sorento.
The second concept appears to be based on the PV5 electric van.
Kia has become a much cooler and desirable brand than it was a decade ago and at next month’s SEMA Show, it will unveil a pair of creations that could show just how hip the carmaker has become.
While only two teasers have been released of the new models, there are no prizes for anyone who guesses what Kia has been up to. The first concept is clearly based on the existing all-electric EV9, as evidenced by those unmistakable LED headlights and daytime running lights.
Kia has then installed a yellow LED light bar on the roof of the three-row SUV and a trio of smaller yellow LEDs between the headlights. A pair of tow hooks are also visible. It seems likely that the special EV9 will be a more off-road-focused variant. Whether or not the concept spawns a production model remains to be seen, but Kia does offer a handful of slightly more adventurous versions of its SUVs, such as the Sportage X-Pro and the Sorento X-Pro. It would only make sense if the EV9 also got the X-Pro treatment. Either that or the marque may be working on some individual accessories it could launch for the EV.
The second vehicle teaser is a little more unusual. The LEDs are vastly different than any current Kia production model but do appear identical to those featured on the PV5, the electric van Kia unveiled at CES in January, which will soon hit the production line. We can see Kia has added two additional lighting units to the front fascia of the concept and like the EV9, has also added a yellow LED light bar to the roof.
It’s slightly harder to determine Kia’s plans for this model. While there could be some demand for an off-road version of the EV9, we suspect the market for an off-road commercial vehicle like the PV5 is smaller.
Whatever the case, all will be revealed at SEMA, running from November 5 to November 8 in Las Vegas.
The Kia EV4 will come with 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh battery packs, offering different range options for buyers.
Kia will release the EV4 in both sedan and hatchback versions, expanding its appeal to a broader market.
Both single-motor and dual-motor configurations are expected, with an all-wheel-drive version also in development.
Update 11/9: Kia’s EV4 prototype has been spotted once again, this time putting in laps on the Nürburgring as the brand continues to refine its latest electric offering. Interestingly, the hatchback version of the EV4 has also been making cameo appearances stateside, raising some interesting questions about its broader market ambitions. That said, there’s still no official word on whether the hatchback model seen here will find its way to North American showrooms. Along with fresh spy photos, we’ve gathered new details on the EV4’s interior, production plans, and expected launch timeline.
SB-Medien
What will it look like?
Kia has stripped away some of the bulky cladding and camouflage from its latest prototype of the EV4 compact hatch, providing us with an excellent opportunity to see the car’s production-spec bodywork in the flesh. As we’d long suspected, it looks extremely similar to the concept unveiled last year.
Oftentimes, concept cars are launched with crazy, over-the-top designs that are heavily diluted down for the road. That’s not the way Kia rolls, at least not in recent years. For example, the Kia EV9 shares most of its dramatic design with the concept that previewed it as do the smaller EV3 and EV5 SUVs. It’ll be the same with the EV4 that will be available in both hatchback and four-door sedan bodystyles, depending on the market.
The front end of this prototype scooped at the ‘Ring has a black lower grille and a set of dramatic headlights that run vertically and include bold LED daytime running lights. Viewed from the side, the EV looks almost identical to the concept and even rocks the same black and silver wheels designed to look like they’re triangular. The roofline of the road-going hatch model does appear to hit slightly higher than the concept, hence why the side windows stand a little taller.
Kia’s concept car looks continue across the rear fascia where there is a large spoiler stretching out from the roof. Interestingly, Kia is readying both sedan and hatch versions of the EV4, but only ever showcased a concept of the sedan. This means the rear fascia of this hatch prototype is much taller than the concept. Additionally, it also seems to have received a pair of bespoke taillights that’ll be different from those of the sedan version.
What about the interior?
While we haven’t yet had the opportunity to peek inside the EV4 hatchback just yet, recent spy shots of the sedan version give us a good idea of what to anticipate. The dashboard leans heavily on the playbook established by Kia’s EV3 SUV sporting a massive glass panel that flows seamlessly from the driver’s side to the far edge of the center console.
This minimalist setup houses a dual-screen system, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Sandwiched between these displays is a compact 5.3-inch climate control screen, delivering essential HVAC data without cluttering the design.
Below this floating display panel lies a control strip with a touch-sensitive interface offering shortcuts to key functions like Home, Media, and Map. Breaking up the haptic monotony is a drum-style volume control, providing at least one point of tactile interaction in an otherwise screen-heavy setup. Expect features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and likely ChatGPT-powered voice control making an appearance across the entire EV4 lineup.
What about performance and range?
Beneath all that sharp sheet metal, the Kia EV4 is expected to ride on the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, the same advanced 800-volt architecture that underpins the EV3, EV6, and EV9. This distinguishes it from the EV5, which relies on the less sophisticated 400-volt N3 eK platform. The EV4 will share battery options with the EV3, offering 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh configurations, and at least 300 miles of range (+480 km).
In all likelihood, the EV4 will offer the same battery configurations as the EV3, with 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh options, and an entry-level version powered by a single electric motor pushing out 201 hp. A more muscular, dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant is also on the cards for those who need extra punch.
When will it go on sale?
Both the EV4 sedan and hatchback are set to make their world debut in the coming months, with a global rollout scheduled to begin in the second half of the year. However, some markets may have to wait until early 2026 to see the compact models. For the European market, production of the EV4 will take place at Kia’s upgraded manufacturing plant in Žilina, located in northwestern Slovakia.
The EV4 is part of a bigger EV plan
Kia has been aggressively expanding its electric vehicle lineup, with the EV4 being a key component in a much larger strategy. Under the company’s updated “Plan S,” Kia aims to launch 15 fully electric models and six new hybrids by 2027, cementing its place as a global EV contender. This plan spans everything from affordable urban vehicles to high-performance SUVs. Positioned in the middle of this range, the EV4 will provide a more accessible entry point to Kia’s electrified future, playing a pivotal role in the brand’s goal of selling 1.6 million eco-friendly vehicles annually by 2030.
Spy photographers have captured interior shots of the Kia EV4 for the first time.
Pictures reveal a very similar widescreen digital display and dashboard design to those in the EV3 SUV.
The compact electric sedan will be smaller and cheaper than the EV6 and should undercut the Tesla Model 3.
Kia’s EV4 sedan has been spied in prototype form on several occasions, but this time our photographers have sneaked a look inside the upcoming Tesla Model 3 rival.
Fresh images of a heavily disguised sedan testing in Europe show the infotainment screen and dashboard of the newest member of Kia’s growing electric family, and they look almost identical to the components fitted to this car’s SUV sister, the EV3.
A wide, slim glass panel stretching from the driver’s side to the far side of the center console sandwiches a small 5.3-inch climate control display between a 12.3-inch digital instrument pack with a same-sized touchscreen media system.
The EV3 features ChatGPT AI voice control so you can ask it a variety of questions with a good chance of it understanding, and we can presume the EV4 will get the same tech. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will also be part of the package.
Mounted below the floating screen unit is a control panel containing touch sensitive buttons for main shortcuts including Home, Map and Media, and there’s a revolving drum-style volume control beneath that with air vents mounted on either side.
The EV4 shares more than interior screen tech with the EV3. The sedan also rides on the same Hyundai Motor Group E-GMP electric platform used by the EV3, EV6, EV9 and multiple Hyundai and Genesis cars. But the EV3 is the only one of those cars to feature 400-volt rather than more advanced 800-volt electrics. It’s unclear which way the EV4 will swing, but if we had to call it we’d say it would follow the EV3’s lead in the pursuit of lower costs.
More synergies between EV3 and 4 would mean the sedan getting a choice of 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh battery packs and base models coming equipped with a single 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW) electric motor. A more powerful dual-motor variant with all-wheel drive is also in the pipes.
But it’s not only batteries and motors that buyers will have to configure. They’ll also need to decide which bodystyle to have. These pictures show the EV4 in sedan guise, but previous spy photos confirm that Kia is also planning to offer its compact EV with a more upright hatchback tail when it goes on sale next year.