Kia has revealed details of its all-new electric compact SUV, the EV3.

Kia points out the electric vehicle features bold design, innovative technology and groundbreaking features, setting a new standard for the segment.

“Through groundbreaking design, an industry-leading electric drivetrain, and practical, innovative lifestyle solutions, the EV3 aims to extend Kia’s exceptional EV SUV experience to a wider audience. With a WLTP (worldwide harmonized light vehicles test procedure) driving range of up to 600 kilometres and fast-charging capability, the EV3 addresses common concerns about electric vehicles. It will reassure those who may have been hesitant to make the switch to electric mobility and will lead the mass adoption of EVs,” said Ho Sung Song, president and CEO at Kia, in a May 23 news release.

Kia says the SUV has a 600-kilometre driving range and the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in 31 minutes.

The vehicle sits on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and comes standard with front-wheel drive.

The EV3 measures 4,300 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and 1,560 mm tall, and its design is intended to maximize space, functionality and comfort and the vehicle comes with Kia AI Assistant as well as premium streaming, advanced driving assistance systems and over-the-air updates.

The EV feature’s Kia’s fourth-generation battery technology. In standard trim, it comes with a 58.3-kWh battery, while the long range variant comes with an 81.4-kWh battery. Both models come with a 150kW/283Nm electric motor.

Kia says the EV3 will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and maximum speed is 170 km/h.

“The Kia EV3 has been designed and engineered to meet the needs of customers who want a car that matches their sustainability values but do not want to compromise their practical everyday needs. It provides one of the best living and luggage sizes in its class, while our flexible E-GMP architecture delivers a best-in-class AER driving range. With the EV3, Kia has redefined the EV SUV segment to create a compact model that is comprehensively equipped with innovative technology and features,” said Spencer Cho, vice president and head of global business planning, in a news release.

Kia says the EV3 will be introduced in Korea in July and then in Europe in the second half of 2024.

The Canadian availability of the SUV was not provided, but Kia says it plans to make the vehicle available in more regions after the European launch.