Mat’s Car of the day: the Kia EV3 is a comfy and spacious electric car for a great price

Mat Watson
Expert Car Reviewer
May 07, 2026

Car changing is a big deal

The free, easy way to change your car online
Rated 4.4/5 from 80,567 reviews

See why Mat Watson recommends the Kia EV3 if you’re after an affordable and practical electric SUV.

When I first reviewed the Kia EV3, I was hugely impressed with just how much car you could get for your money. It costs around the same as a Volvo EX30, but it’s much more spacious inside and will go further on a charge.

I reckon it’s a great car, and here are three reasons why you should consider it.

Three reasons I love the Kia EV3

1. The range is impressive

Some versions of the Kia EV3 have up to 375 miles of range, which for a car of this size is impressive. By comparison, a Volvo EX30 tops out at 295 miles and the Jaecoo E5 can only manage 248 miles between charges.

2. It’s really spacious inside

Practicality is another area where the EV3 trounces the Volvo EX30, because it’s surprisingly roomy inside. The rear seats offer more than enough space for adults, and the 460-litre boot is a nice, square shape, making it easy to pack full of stuff.

3. It’s comfortable

The Kia EV3 is a really comfy and relaxing car to drive. Around town the suspension does a great job of soaking up potholes and speed humps, and it’s also quiet and refined on the motorway. All EV3 versions come with adaptive cruise control as well, which takes the stress out of long journeys by keeping you a safe distance from the car in front.

New Kia EV3 deals: save almost £6,000*

The Kia EV3 starts from £31,995, making it around £1,000 cheaper than a Volvo EX30. You can get one even cheaper through Carwow, with discounts of up to £5,955 available at the time of writing.

This is available on the GT-Line S model when you buy using PCP finance, and it includes a £3,000 deposit contribution.

The GT-Line S is the range-topping EV3, and it usually starts from £43,055. This Carwow deal brings that down to £37,100, and as standard you get:

  • Heated front and rear seats
  • 360-degree camera system
  • Glass sunroof
  • Harmon Kardon sound system

Three things to consider before buying a Kia EV3

As good as the Kia EV3 is, it’s not perfect. Here are three annoying things to think about before parting with your cash.

1. You only get a heat pump on the most expensive models

A heat pump is a more efficient way of heating a car’s cabin which uses less energy than traditional systems, and the only way to get one on the EV3 is by going for the most expensive version. It would be nice to have it as an option on the cheaper models.

2. Annoying climate control screen

While it’s good that the Kia EV3 has some physical buttons for the heater, I’m baffled by the separate climate control screen. It sits in between the two main displays in a position where it’s completely blocked by the steering wheel, so you can never see what you’re adjusting without craning your neck. It took me a while to even notice it was there.

3. Beeps and bongs

This is a problem I have with all modern Kias – they beep at you incessantly. The lane-departure warning is way too sensitive, and turning these systems off requires one too many prods of the touchscreen – every time you get in the car.

But small gripes aside, I highly recommend the Kia EV3. It’s great value for money, hugely practical and lovely to drive.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

Click here to follow us on Reddit, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos. You can also subscribe to our WhatsApp channel to get the latest news sent straight to your phone.

*Savings are made up of the maximum dealer discount off RRP – subject to dealership, location and trim. Prices correct at the time of writing.