(A series of articles highlighting this new technology.)
It seems that something is being announced almost every day at the moment in the world of electric vehicles, with mainstream internal combustion engine (ICE) manufacturers giving details of new models and upgrades to existing units, so we want to keep you up to date with all this new-fangled electrickery techy thingy, as only your dedicated newsletter team can!
It’s Ev3ry car you will Ev3r need…..
OK so it’s a Kia EV3, but I guess you have already worked that out, the group was delighted to be invited to the launch of this brand-new model recently, and well, someone had to go and check it out. You might remember we mentioned that we were going to the launch in early December, well following this we Test drove the EV3 for over an hour, and was handed the keys by Kia for the author to see what I thought of it.
This is an important car for Kia, it must compete with lots of others in this part of the market, as this is the segment most buyers will be looking at. Kia is numbering all their electric cars with the EV prefix, they started with the great EV6, (can I have one please) then along comes the EV9, hmmm. Bit on the large size for your average multi-storey car park, but a fantastic vehicle if that’s what you need. Now comes the EV3 and on the drawing board we believe is the EV4 and EV5 yet to break cover!
We got the chance to test drive this new Kia recently, and wow did it live up to expectations. There are a couple of changes in dashboard layout from the EV6, like the selector for drive, and reverse etc is now on a stalk on the right-hand side, but that gives more space in the centre console. Plus, re-gen is now on 3 levels with the top level allowing one-pedal driving also known as i-PEDAL.
All round vision is good, and the mid-range model we test drove has all the toys that just a few years ago would have put it at, “top of the range” like blind spot indicators, and lane assist, which yes, can take a little getting used to if you are an advanced driver, and not used to always signalling before a manoeuvre. (Using the indicators does switch off this function allowing an easy lane change when needed). The other aspect is the “squared off” steering wheel, again this has been seen on other manufacturers vehicles, and yes it does give you a better view ahead but does take a little getting used to if your current car has a standard round one.
Anyway, out on the road, as you would expect the EV3 has impeccable manners, steering is weighted for ease at lower speeds, and more positive at higher motorway and country road speeds where national speed limit allows. Body roll is controlled, so both driver and passengers feel that the car knows where it’s going and holds the road well. Using system of car control, and getting early position gives excellent vision, rear view is excellent too, as the rear wiper is tucked neatly away under the rear window fairing, giving an unobstructed view.
Seat comfort is excellent, and you could easily complete a long journey without any discomfort at all. The dashboard layout is logical, and essential information is right in front of the driver. The speed limit display can be a little slow to react, as can the road sign display too, but we were informed it does pick up from both the satnav information and camera recognition systems as well. However, this was no problem, as driving to IPSGA all this is collected by the driver!
This being an EV it has quick acceleration, and can, if needed, get up to 62mph in 7.5 seconds, but practically, it will be adequate for anyone in normal driving circumstances.
Luggage space is great at 460 litres, and impressive at 1251 litres with the rear seat folded. Plus, a handy extra 25 litres in the Frunk (Front trunk) or froot (Front boot) that can hold the charger cable.
Speaking of which, charging is via the almost universal standard CCS connector located on the front right hand wing, charging times at standard home supply of 220V will be around 7 hours. On a 440V charger, this reduces to about 50 minutes.
Now, infotainment, wow has this car got it all. You can get almost every radio station currently broadcasting on the DAB+ network, you really are spoiled for choice, of course we tuned into Bolton FM. With connection to your phone it can play any music you have on there, and comes, of course, with a brilliant Satnav system that makes sure you will never be lost.
Like all Kia’s this comes with an industry leading 7-year warranty, and an 8-year battery warranty, so no issues there to worry about.
Price? Well the entry model “Air SR” (Short Range) is quoted at £32,995. Then the “Air” (Long Range) is priced at £35,995. Mid-range “GT-line” model as driven by us £39,495. Range topping “GT-line S” comes in at £43,895. However, the majority will be on some form of lease so the exact cost will be as per the quote from the leasing company.
So, if you are in the market for a mid-size crossover electric, then the EV3 should be on your shopping list. Need more information? Then speak to the sales team at Bolton Kia – Europe’s No. 1 Kia Dealer based on Middlebrook Retail Park, BL6 6JA, alternatively visit their website by going to www.kia.co.uk/bolton.
Remember, if you’re thinking of “upgrading” to electric, please let us know, we would love to hear what you are thinking of changing to, plus if you have any questions, just shout out!
Well folks, that’s about it for this February edition, we hope you like the world class, award winning, journalism we bring you, not just this month, but every month, so look forward to seeing you again next month. Until then, drive safe and remember to tell everyone about our fantastic, advanced driving course, next one starts next month, with a introduction evening on Thursday 6th February 2025 at the usual venue, Lostock Parish Centre. If you know of anyone that you think might be interested, then invite them along for a hot drink and a biscuit or two - we don’t bite, honest!
Barry Sloan – Publicity Officer