The Kia EV3 GT arrives as a significant contender in the sub-£50k hot hatch market. While the firm has previously focused on large SUVs with the EV6 GT and EV9 GT, this new model brings performance to a more accessible price point. That establishes the EV3 GT as the most affordable member of the growing performance sub-brand, appealing to buyers who want electric performance without the hefty premium of the flagship models.
Understanding the Powertrain
At the heart of the EV3 GT sits a dual-motor setup producing a combined 288bhp. The system features a front motor generating 194bhp and a rear motor intended to balance the chassis. This configuration allows the vehicle to launch from 0 to 62mph in 5.7 seconds, a respectable time for a machine weighing over two tonnes.
The performance figures are backed by an 81.4kWh battery borrowed from the standard EV3 Long Range, which claims a range of 311 miles. Charging speeds cap at 128kW, which is modest for a high-performance vehicle.
Handling and Chassis Behaviour
Kia has deliberately positioned the GT range to be less aggressive than the N models from sister-brand Hyundai. The goal is to create performance EVs that offer “a bit more bite” than standard models without becoming tiresome to drive daily. This philosophy is reflected in the handling, which feels heavyset and prefers momentum over rapid corrections.
The EV3 GT lacks a physical differential lock at the front, relying instead on a torque-vectoring programme that uses both friction and regenerative braking to manage traction. On the test track, the car showed no signs of axle-tramp or torque-steer in Korea. However, taking the EV3 GT into tight, winding roads revealed that the torque-vectoring system can struggle during a swift exit from a corner.
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Where a driver might steer gently on the accelerator in a rear-drive rival like a Cupra Born to initiate oversteer, the EV3 GT’s design prioritises stability. The chassis is accurate and controls its mass well, making it a forgiving machine for less experienced drivers. This approach means the vehicle is less about exciting tail-happy antics and more about offering a composed driving experience that does not require constant input.
Real-World Implications of the Design
The specific engineering choices made for the EV3 GT create a distinct personality that sets the model apart from lighter competitors. The vehicle’s substantial weight, often cited as a drawback in performance contexts, actually serves to dampen the feedback from the road. This results in a ride quality that absorbs rough patches and potholes with greater ease than a standard hot hatch.
The car remains comfortable over long distances. For families or commuters traveling over variable road surfaces, this pliant nature balances the needs of practical transport with Kia’s performance aspirations.
The Virtual Gear Shift Experience
One of the most intriguing elements of the EV3 GT is the Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system. This feature mimics a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and can be toggled on or off via the touchscreen. In GT mode, the system automatically engages, creating a synthetic engine sound and the sensation of shifting gears.