Accelerated Ahead: The Performance-Focused Kia EV3 EVolution heads to the race track
Kia EV3 GT: A High-Performance Electric Compact SUV on the Horizon
The automotive world is abuzz with anticipation as Kia prepares to unveil its latest electric vehicle, the Kia EV3 GT. This flagship model, expected to debut later this year or early next year, promises to be a game-changer in Kia’s compact electric SUV lineup14.
Key expected specifications for the EV3 GT include a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive (AWD), a departure from the regular EV3 which is front-wheel drive1. This setup is anticipated to produce around 400 horsepower (approximately 300 kW+), delivering strong acceleration and enhanced traction13.
Performance-wise, the EV3 GT is expected to achieve a 0-100 km/h sprint in about 3.5 seconds, matching performance levels close to the Kia EV6 GT1. While the EV6 GT produces a combined 430 kW and hits 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds with a top speed of about 260 km/h, practical figures for the EV3 GT might be around 5 to 6 seconds based on early prototypes3.
The EV3 GT will be powered by an 81.4 kWh battery pack, a substantial size that should allow a practical driving range, estimated at around 300 miles or more with charging speeds up to 135 kW (enabling 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes)1.
In terms of design, the EV3 GT will likely feature a sportier exterior with a more aggressive body kit, including chiseled bumpers, side skirts, 19-inch wheels, and a slightly lowered ride height, while maintaining its SUV stature3.
The EV3 GT is expected to cost over £50,000 in the UK market, above the standard EV3’s pricing around £33,000 to £44,000 depending on trim3.
Despite the extensive camouflage on the prototype, the EV3 GT has already been spotted in public5. The first likely model year for the EV3 GT is predicted to be 20276.
While the EV3 GT is not expected to match the EV6 GT's power, it is speculated to have a combined output of 400 horsepower7. The EV3 GT might weigh over 4,000 pounds due to the addition of an extra motor8.
It's worth noting that the standard EV3 has not yet been released in the U.S., but the EV3 GT is expected to make its debut before it becomes available9. The EV3 GT will join the ranks of the EV6 and EV9 GTs, representing Kia's hotted-up electric variants, with the lime green brake calipers being a signature feature10.
In summary, the Kia EV3 GT will be a compact electric SUV launching in late 2026 with a sporty AWD dual-motor setup, strong high-performance credentials, a substantial 81.4 kWh battery, and enhanced design features13.
The advancements in technology, such as the dual-motor setup and large battery pack, will significantly enhance the sports performance of the Kia EV3 GT, enabling swift acceleration and a practical driving range. The EV3 GT, despite being an electric compact SUV, is expected to deliver sports-car-like performance comparable to other Kia GT models in Kia's lineup.
