Kia Australia has officially confirmed the pricing and specifications for its highly anticipated small electric SUV, the Kia EV3. Set to arrive in dealerships later this month, the EV3 is positioned as an entry-level electric vehicle (EV) offering with a compelling mix of performance, range, and technology. However, with prices approaching $70,000 for the top-spec model, questions arise about whether it is priced competitively within the Australian EV market, particularly when compared to its larger sibling, the Kia EV5.
Kia EV3 Pricing: A Breakdown
The Kia EV3 range starts with the Air Standard Range variant at a Manufacturer’s Retail Price (RRP) of $47,600. The model lineup extends up to the GT-Line Long Range variant, which comes with an RRP of $63,950. Below is the detailed pricing structure, including drive-away costs (excluding WA, which incurs slightly higher pricing):
| Model | Battery | Range (WLTP) | RRP | Drive-Away Price (excl. WA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EV3 Air Standard Range | 58.3 kWh | 436 km | $47,600 | $48,990 |
| EV3 Air Long Range | 81.4 kWh | 604 km | $53,315 | $56,490 |
| EV3 Earth Long Range | 81.4 kWh | 563 km | $58,600 | $62,690 |
| EV3 GT-Line Long Range | 81.4 kWh | 563 km | $63,950 | $68,490 |
With drive-away pricing creeping into the upper $60,000 range, the value proposition of the EV3 compared to other small electric SUVs in the Australian market will be a key talking point for buyers.
What’s on Offer? Powertrain, Range, and Features
Battery & Performance
The Kia EV3 is based on Kia’s E-GMP platform in a 400V configuration and is available in both Standard Range and Long Range battery options. The Standard Range comes with a 58.3 kWh battery, offering 436 km WLTP range, while the Long Range variants are powered by an 81.4 kWh battery, extending the range up to 604 km (EV3 Air Long Range).
All variants feature a single-motor 2WD powertrain, producing 150 kW and 283 Nm of torque. While not the most powerful EV in its class, it strikes a balance between efficiency and everyday usability.
Technology and Comfort
The EV3’s interior is designed with a ‘home-like’ theme, prioritising comfort and simplicity. Across all trim levels, Kia includes a 12.3-inch Digital Driver Cluster, a 5.3-inch Climate Monitor, and a 12.3-inch Touchscreen Infotainment system featuring Kia’s latest ccNC graphical user interface.
Other notable features across the range include:
- Kia Connect and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality (including connector kit)
- Regenerative braking with iPedal 3.0 for one-pedal driving
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) and a centre side airbag for added safety
Higher-end trims add luxury appointments, including artificial leather upholstery, a smart power tailgate (Earth and GT-Line trims), a Head-Up Display (GT-Line only), and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Design & Practicality
Visually, the Kia EV3 follows the brand’s latest design language, incorporating the Star Map lighting signature and Tiger Face elements. The GT-Line variant is distinguished by a sportier front grille and unique lighting elements, giving it a more aggressive stance.
Inside, the EV3 prioritises spaciousness and functionality, with 460L of boot space and an additional 25L frunk. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity further, making it a practical option for city and suburban driving.
Fleet and Novated Lease Considerations
For fleet managers, the EV3 Air Standard Range appears to be the most attractive option, offering a competitive entry price and a WLTP range of 436 km, which is sufficient for most urban and regional business needs.
However, for novated lease buyers, the high drive-away price of $68,490 for the GT-Line Long Range raises concerns about its affordability relative to other EVs in the market. Given that buyers in this category often compare monthly repayments and benefits, larger and more powerful alternatives like the Kia EV5 may offer better perceived value.
Is the Kia EV3 Priced Competitively?
While the EV3 brings strong technology and range credentials, its pricing puts it in competition with larger and more powerful EVs. Consider the Kia EV5 – a larger electric SUV with a more spacious interior and similar pricing. If customers can stretch their budget slightly, the EV5 may offer a stronger value proposition for both fleet and private buyers.
Additionally, competing brands offer small electric SUVs at lower price points. The Hyundai Kona Electric (from ~$54,000 drive-away) and the BYD Atto 3 (from ~$48,000 drive-away) deliver similar or better value in terms of size, features, and range.
Final Thoughts
The Kia EV3 is a well-equipped and capable small electric SUV, offering a solid balance of range, technology, and practicality. However, its pricing strategy positions it uncomfortably close to larger EVs like the EV5, potentially making it a harder sell for buyers focused on value-for-money considerations.
For fleet managers, the EV3 Air Standard Range presents an affordable, high-range option, but for novated lease buyers, the question remains – is a small electric SUV worth nearly $70,000 when alternatives offer more space and capability? The market’s response in the coming months will ultimately determine whether Kia has hit the right balance with the EV3.
With Australian EV adoption continuing to grow, competition is fiercer than ever, and pricing remains a crucial factor. Kia’s reputation for quality and design will help drive interest, but whether the EV3 is ‘cheap enough’ for its size compared to alternatives remains to be seen.
