A Hotter Kia EV3 GT Is On The Way

Kia has confirmed that a hotter EV3 GT is on the way after unveiling the mini EV3 crossover. According to Edmunds, brand CEO Ho Sung Song said that “all our EV models will have GTs”, after the success of the EV6 GT. Given the regular model only offers a single motor, FWD drivetrain, we imagine the GT version will move up to an AWD system to get the most out of the model.

As the smallest model in the lineup, the EV3 joins the EV6 and EV9 electric lineup with funky styling and plans to capture the hearts of buyers with ample space and a great range. Going up against competitors like the Volvo EX30, and the upcoming revived Chevrolet Bolt, it’s uniquely poised to capture new buyers in the market.

What The EV3 Has To Offer

As it stands right now, the EV3 doesn’t have particularly inspiring performance, even in the more attractive GT-line trim. Power comes from a single motor in the front that produces 201 horsepower and 209 lb-ft of torque, which Kia says is good enough for 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds. Thanks to the instant electric torque, it will surely feel faster, but what it lacks in grunt it makes up for in range.

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When paired with the larger 81.4 kWh pack, Kia says the model has a WLTP-estimated range of 373 miles, which should beat out the competition handily even under the EPA testing guidelines. Charging from 10-80% happens in 31 minutes.

On the inside, you get technology and features like over 24 inches of screen space along with plenty of gorgeous soft-touch materials, advanced driver safety features, a heads-up display, and even vehicle-to-load tech.

Adding The GT Formula

While the motor in the model produces good power, the company knows how to go above and beyond. The EV6 GT is a bonafide supercar killer. It’s wickedly fast in a straight line but also agile and composed when the roads get twisty. It packs a twin-motor setup that produces 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque married to a 77.4 kWh battery pack. The EV9 GT is set to be even more powerful, so the company has a lot of potential with the EV3.

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Kia has made several changes to the popular electric crossover to keep it at the front of the EV pack, and a futuristic styling update doesn’t hurt.

While we don’t expect the same amount of power in its smaller sibling, we wouldn’t be surprised if the brand decided to just add the same front motor to the rear of the EV3, bumping power to 402 horsepower and 419 lb-ft of torque. This much power combined with the 81.4 kWh or smaller 77.4 kWh battery pack would make it a formidable option, then all you need to add is some suspension tuning, brake upgrades, and modes to take advantage of everything.