EV3: A Cut Above Its Class

Smallest electric Kia punches above its weight in ride comfort and road handling

- Christopher Tan

TARRAGONA (Spain) - On the surface, the new Kia EV3 compact crossover does not appear to be the kind of car which would make a huge impression.

The 4,310mm-long, 1,850mm-wide and 1,570mm-tall electric vehicle (EV) with a 2,680mm wheelbase is slightly smaller than the ageing but still competent Kia Niro EV and the cute and perky Volvo EX30 (possibly its keenest competitor).

Yet, the Kia weighs more than either vehicle, and posts performance figures which will hardly sway those who are finger-shopping for a small car with a big difference.

But look closer, and things start to change. The EV3 is, in fact, exceptionally well built, brimming with the solidity and polish of rivals in the premium segment.

Its cockpit exudes sophistication and simplicity - a rare combination indeed in an increasing population of cars which are either one or the other. The design is logical and intuitive, with perhaps the centre armrest being the only exception.

In most cars, the armrest doubles as a lid to a storage compartment. But if the Kia had such a feature, I cannot figure out how to open it. Then again, I have very limited time with the car - only 100km of driving shared with another writer.