Kia has introduced its latest electric vehicle, the EV2, marking the sixth addition to its dedicated EV platform lineup. Unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show, this compact electric car boasts a distinctive boxy design, setting it apart from the prevalent crossover trend. It comes with a GT-Line trim, offering a sportier aesthetic right from its debut, and promises a blend of innovative features with practical usability.
The exterior of the Kia EV2 presents a bold and unconventional design. Its squarish silhouette is a refreshing change in a market dominated by sleek, flowing lines. Noteworthy design elements include the uniquely positioned taillights, reminiscent of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, and striking split vertical headlights that give it a futuristic concept car appeal. The GT-Line trim further enhances its visual presence, adding a touch of athleticism to its quirky charm.
Inside, the EV2 balances modernity with user-friendliness. While it incorporates advanced technology, such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a similarly sized touchscreen display, Kia has thoughtfully retained physical buttons for essential functions like climate control. A tactile volume roller and manual air-vent adjusters are also present, ensuring drivers can easily manage controls without navigating through complex digital menus. Additionally, the EV2 is equipped with contemporary amenities, including wireless smartphone charging, 100-watt USB-C ports, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and over-the-air update capabilities, along with a unique 'Pet Mode'.
Despite its compact dimensions, measuring only 159.8 inches (4,060 millimeters) in length, the EV2 offers surprising interior versatility. Customers can opt for either a two- or three-seat configuration in the rear. The four-seat model provides a respectable 14.2 cubic feet (403 liters) of cargo space with the rear seats fully forward, while the five-seat version offers 12.7 cubic feet (362 liters). A small front trunk (frunk) adds an extra 0.5 cubic feet (15 liters) for miscellaneous items.
Built on the E-GMP platform shared with other Hyundai and Kia electric models, the EV2 offers two battery choices. The standard 42.2-kWh battery provides a WLTP range of up to 197 miles (317 kilometers), while the larger 61-kWh option extends this to 278 miles (448 kilometers) on a single charge. The vehicle is strictly front-wheel drive, with the standard-range model producing 144 horsepower and accelerating from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 8.6 seconds. The larger-range model, with slightly less horsepower, takes 9.5 seconds for the same sprint. Both versions have an electronically limited top speed of 99 mph (159 km/h).
Fast-charging capabilities allow the EV2 to charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 29 minutes for the smaller battery and 30 minutes for the larger one. Unlike its higher-end siblings, the EV6 and EV9, the EV2 utilizes a 400-volt charging system, a reasonable compromise given its expected starting price below €30,000 ($35,000). Furthermore, the EV2 supports bidirectional charging, including Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) for powering external devices and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) for returning energy to the power grid.
Production of the EV2 will take place at Kia's Žilina factory in Slovakia, alongside the EV4. The standard-range model is slated for production in the first quarter of the year, with the larger-battery version and the GT-Line trim following later in 2026. This new entry will face stiff competition from other compact electric vehicles such as the Renault 4, Volkswagen ID. Polo Cross, Peugeot E-2008, and Ford Puma Gen-E.
The Kia EV2 emerges as a compelling contender in the burgeoning compact electric vehicle market. Its bold design, user-centric interior, and competitive specifications, including a respectable range and practical charging solutions, position it as an attractive option for consumers seeking an affordable yet distinctive EV. Despite some cost-conscious design choices, such as a simpler rear suspension and a 400-volt charging architecture, the EV2's overall package reflects Kia's commitment to expanding its electric lineup with innovative and accessible options.