Kia EV3: Interior and boot space in detail

The Kia EV3, the Korean manufacturer's new 100% electric compact car, focuses on space and interior comfort. Here are its strengths

By: Filippo Einaudi

Dec 20, 2024 at 4:42am ET

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With the launch of the Kia EV3, the Korean manufacturer brings the innovation and technology of its electric family to a popular segment, offering a model from which it expects excellent numbers. On the list of outstanding features is in fact an excellent ratio between interior volumes and exterior dimensions: the former compact, the latter generous, achieved thanks to the qualities of the platform.

Simple but welcoming, with a design played on the harmony of elements in apparent contrast, as the stylistic philosophy "Opposites United" states, it combines practicality and load capacity with a green spirit that also shines through in the use of recycled materials.

Kia EV3 2024, the dashboard

The first element that the eye falls on in a new car is the interface, i.e. the number and position of the screens: Kia EV3 offers a single 30-inch widescreen display that accommodates three different screens. The one for instrumentation, in front of the driver, and the one for on-board services in the centre are both 10.3-inch, whilst in between the two there is a 5.3-inch one that contains the climate controls.

A choice that somewhat defies the trends to which almost all manufacturers have bowed, is namely that of offering traditional rather than 'touch' controls for this function. For Kia, however, it can be done, but with a dedicated console.

On-board technologies include compatibility with Apple Carplay and Android Auto that can be connected wirelessly, as well as the possibility of integrating subscriptions to services such as streaming entertainment channels via updates offered directly by Kia and OTA updates. The voice assistant also integrates ChatGPT technology. Finally, there is the Digital Key 2.0 that allows the smartphone to be used as an electronic key to remotely control certain functions, including unlocking locks.

Kia EV3 2024
Digital instrumentation	12.3-inch
Head Up Display	Yes (only on GT Line Plus)
Central Monitor	12.3-inch
Mirroring	Android Auto (wired and wireless) Apple CarPlay (wired and wireless)
OTA	Yes
Voice Assistant	Yes

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Kia EV3 2024, materials and finish

The interior of the Kia EV3 2024 is simple in its impact, but with great attention to the overall ambience. Beyond the details already described, the presence of newly developed materials with a low environmental impact, the design team led by Karim Habib has conceived the interior as a real small living room, conforming even the front seats, which can be reclined back several degrees, almost like those of a lounge.

The absence of transmission controls, moved behind the steering wheel, the flat floor and the small footprint of the mechanicals made it possible to create large storage spaces whilst still leaving an airy feel. The assembly of the dashboard and door panels, in which vertical trim and design elements appear to break up the horizontal theme of the overall lines, is well executed.

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Kia EV3 2024, roominess and luggage compartment

At 4.30 metres long, the Kia EV3 is seemingly somewhere between a B-SUV and a proper compact, but the space is definitely worthy of the second category. The cabin is airy, cosy and accessible and the load compartment starts at a minimum volume of 460 litres, rising to 1,251 litres with the rear seatbacks fully folded down. In addition, there is also a 25-litre compartment in the front bonnet.

Rear passengers have a vertical space from seat to ceiling of 955 mm and virtually equal legroom (950 mm). In front these measurements rise to 1,015 and 1,060 mm respectively. If we add an overall width of over 1.85 metres, it follows that in the Kia EV3 one can travel comfortably with 5 and, if necessary, relax with entertainment (almost) like at home.