Kia Enters the Budget EV Segment With the New EV2 Crossover
After nearly a year of teasers, Kia has officially unveiled the Kia EV2, a compact electric crossover designed to make EV ownership more accessible than ever. With an expected starting price of around €30,000, the EV2 becomes Kia’s cheapest electric model to date and a key player in the fast-growing affordable EV segment.
The EV2 will arrive on European roads next month, where it will face strong competition from models such as the Renault 4, Ford Puma Gen-E, and the upcoming Volkswagen ID. Cross.
Platform and Powertrain: Built as an EV From the Ground Up
Unlike some rivals adapted from combustion platforms, the Kia EV2 is based on a dedicated electric architecture. It uses a 400V version of Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, shared with the larger EV3 and EV4.
Battery and Range Options
| Version | Battery | Range (WLTP est.) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Range | 42.2 kWh | ~317 km | FWD |
| Long Range | 61 kWh | ~448 km | FWD |
Both versions use a single front-mounted electric motor, prioritizing efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Charging: A Rare Advantage in the Entry-Level Segment
One of the EV2’s standout features is its AC charging capability, which is unusually generous for this class.
Charging Capabilities
| Charging Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| AC charging | 11 kW & 22 kW (standard) |
| DC fast charging | 10–80% in ~29–30 min |
| Small battery (22 kW AC) | ~2h 35m |
| Large battery (22 kW AC) | ~3h |
The inclusion of 22 kW AC charging is especially valuable in Europe, where many public and residential chargers support this speed — significantly reducing overnight and workplace charging times.
V2L and V2G: Power Beyond Driving
Despite its entry-level pricing, the EV2 supports advanced energy features:
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Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): power external devices and appliances
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Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): send energy back to the grid (market-dependent)
These features are typically reserved for higher-end EVs, making their inclusion notable at this price point.
Compact Dimensions, Practical Layout
The Kia EV2 is designed for urban Europe but maintains practical proportions.
Dimensions
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,060 mm |
| Width | 1,800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm |
While the wheelbase matches that of the Hyundai Inster, Kia emphasizes that the EV2 is fundamentally different — the Inster uses a modified combustion platform, whereas the EV2 is EV-only by design.
Interior: Flexible Seating and Big Screens
Inside, the EV2 punches above its class.
Cabin Highlights
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5-seat standard layout or optional 4-seat configuration
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Rear seats with independent sliding and reclining (4-seat version)
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Panoramic display setup:
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12.3-inch infotainment screen
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5.3-inch climate control display
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12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
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The system runs on the “Lite” version of Kia’s infotainment software, supporting over-the-air updates — although navigation maps will still require manual updates.
Design: Boxy, Modern, and Distinctly Kia
The EV2 follows Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy.
Exterior Design Features
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Boxy, upright crossover proportions
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Vertical LED daytime running lights
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Wheel sizes from 16 to 19 inches
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GT-Line trim for a sportier appearance
The design prioritizes practicality while maintaining a modern, recognizable Kia identity.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Well Equipped as Standard
Despite its affordability, the EV2 comes loaded with advanced safety tech:
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Highway Driving Assist 2
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Smart Cruise Control
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Lane Keeping Assist
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Digital key with NFC and Bluetooth smartphone support
This level of standard equipment is competitive even against higher-priced rivals.
Production and Market Launch
Production of the Kia EV2 will take place at Žilina, underscoring Kia’s strong European manufacturing footprint.
Production Timeline
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February: Standard Range production begins
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June: Long Range and GT-Line versions follow
Why the Kia EV2 Matters
The EV2 represents a critical step in Kia’s EV strategy:
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Sub-€30,000 entry point
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Dedicated EV platform
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Fast AC charging uncommon in the segment
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Strong safety and tech package
As competition intensifies in Europe’s affordable EV space, the EV2 positions Kia as a serious contender for mainstream buyers ready to go electric.
Final Verdict: A Strong New Baseline for Affordable EVs
The Kia EV2 doesn’t try to be flashy or extreme. Instead, it focuses on what matters most to everyday drivers: price, practicality, charging convenience, and technology.
If real-world range and pricing match expectations, the EV2 could become one of the most important electric cars Kia has ever launched — and a benchmark for affordable EVs in Europe.
The Kia EV2 is Kia’s most affordable electric vehicle to date, targeting Europe’s growing budget EV market. Built on a dedicated E-GMP platform, it offers up to 448 km of range, rare 22 kW AC charging, V2L and V2G functionality, and a strong suite of safety and tech features — all starting at around €30,000.
