Kia EV3 launches in US at $31,385 undercutting AWD rivals

Kia has finally released pricing for its long-awaited EV3 crossover in the U.S. market. The base Light trim starts at $31,385, including a $1,495 destination fee. That makes it Kia's most affordable electric vehicle in America and one of the least expensive options on the market.

The EV3's U.S. launch was initially uncertain: the car has been sold in Europe and other regions for nearly two years, but production was limited to South Korea. Tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and the elimination of the federal EV tax credit derailed earlier plans. Kia recently secured assembly in Mexico, which paved the way for American sales.

The lineup consists of five trims: Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT. Prices range from $31,385 to $47,385 with destination charges. The EV3 undercuts the EV6 crossover by roughly $8,000 and comes in nearly $10,000 cheaper than the Niro EV, which Kia will discontinue after the 2027 model year.

A key advantage over direct competitors — the Chevrolet Bolt and Nissan Leaf — is the availability of all-wheel drive. Both rivals come only in front-wheel-drive configurations. The base Light trim packs a 58.3 kWh battery delivering an EPA-estimated range of 221 miles. Other trims feature an 81.4 kWh extended-range pack, offering 321 miles with FWD and 280 miles with AWD.

Charging speeds are competitive as well. The EV3 comes standard with a NACS port compatible with Tesla's network. At a 350 kW fast charger, a 10-80% top-up takes 29 minutes for the smaller battery and 31 minutes for the larger one. A Level 2 home charger at 11 kW completes the same charge in about 5 hours for the smaller pack and 7 hours for the larger.

The range-topping GT trim stands out with 288 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque. It also features virtual gear shifts and an active sound system that simulate driving a manual transmission car, similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.