The race to the bottom is on – and Kia is currently leading the way. Thankfully, in the world of electric vehicles, that is perhaps no bad thing.
Where EVs were once the preserve of affluent early adopters, models such as the all-new EV2 – helped by generous Government Electric Car Grants (GECG) and attractive dealer incentives – are making zero-emission motoring a realistic proposition for far more buyers. Prices start from under £25,000, making the EV2 one of the more affordable electric SUVs on sale.
The range comprises ‘Air’ (£24,245), ‘GT-Line’ (£28,995) and ‘GT-Line S’ (£32,595), while the launch model ‘First Edition’ driven here costs £26,995 once the £1,500 GECG has been applied. Kia has attempted to distill the technology, design and engineering of its larger EV models into a compact package aimed squarely at the Ford Puma Gen-E, Renault’s 5 and the Jeep Avenger Electric.
The EV2 follows an impressive line of non-ICE models including the EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6 and EV9, all of which have demonstrated Kia’s rapid ascent to the EV summit.
Visually, the EV2 has plenty of presence for such a compact SUV. Vertical ‘Star Map’ daytime running lights, pronounced wheel arches and crisp body surfacing give it a distinctive appearance, while silver bumper garnishes at both ends neatly tie the design together. At the rear, a near-vertical tailgate, slim LED light bar and low-mounted tail-lights create a contemporary look.
Practicality is clearly a priority and UK models feature a conventional five-seat layout rather than the two sliding rear seats currently offered in some markets. Passenger space remains impressive considering the EV2’s pint-sized footprint; the 362-litre boot expands to 1,201-litres if the 60/40 split-folding rear seats are pushed down, while a useful 15-litre frunk compartment under the bonnet comes in handy for storing the home charging cable. Rear passengers enjoy reasonable headroom and knee room, although carrying three adults across the rear bench will be a squeeze. Storage throughout the cabin is excellent, with a large centre console, useful cubbies, generous door bins and a rear armrest with cup holders that make the most of every available square inch.
The same thoughtful approach continues with how the cabin is constructed and it is here where the EV2 feels considerably more upmarket than its price tag suggests. Kia has resisted the temptation to rely solely on flashy technology, instead producing a cabin that is clean, practical and well assembled. Soft-touch materials cover the upper dashboard and door tops, while higher-spec models add sustainable upholstery and premium trim finishes that give the interior a more sophisticated feel.
The dashboard layout is equally successful. Twin 12.3-inch displays are seamlessly integrated into a wide digital panel, yet Kia has retained physical controls for key functions such as the climate system. It is a very welcome decision that makes routine selections far easier than burying these within an endless list of touchscreen menus.
Kia has also resisted making buyers having to climb the trim ladder to bank everyday creature comforts. Even the entry-level ‘Air’ comes generously equipped with built-in satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, dual-zone climate control, LED lighting, flush-fitting door handles and rear parking sensors. A comprehensive suite of safety technology includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. ‘GT-Line’ adds wireless phone charging, rear privacy glass and sportier styling touches, and as for ‘GT-Line S’, these gain ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon-made audio system, ambient lighting and a powered tailgate. It all gives the EV2 a plush feel that many rivals struggle to match at this price.
The ‘First Edition’ uses Kia’s smaller 42.2kWh battery, delivering an official range of up to 190 miles, while the larger 61kWh battery extends that figure to a claimed 281 miles. Both versions benefit from 400-volt charging technology, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent recharge in around half-an-hour on a suitably powerful DC charger. Buyers can also choose between Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow drive modes, together with adjustable regenerative braking, including a one-pedal driving function. Performance is brisk rather than rapid, though. The smaller battery version develops 144bhp and reaches 62mph in 8.7 seconds whereas the longer-range model produces 133bhp and completes the same sprint in 9.5 seconds. Both are capable of a 100mph top speed.
Out on the road, the EV2 delivers the composed and confidence-inspiring driving experience that has become a hallmark of Kia’s latest electric models. Its low-mounted battery contributes to a reassuringly planted sensation, keeping body roll neatly in check through bends while providing excellent stability at motorway speeds. The steering is light enough to make urban driving effortless yet remains accurate and predictable on twisting country roads. It won’t thrill enthusiastic drivers in the way a hot hatch might – but it is easy to position on narrower roads.
Ride comfort is another highlight. Even on broken B-roads, the suspension absorbs potholes and uneven surfaces with impressive composure, particularly on the smaller alloy wheels, while refinement is excellent with minimal wind and road noise filtering into the cabin. Good visibility and a tight turning circle make manoeuvring around town straightforward, reinforcing the EV2’s credentials as a likeable daily family car.
