Kia EV2 Review: Small Electric SUV Brings Big-Car Tech to the Masses
The compact Kia EV2 promises long range, rapid charging, and surprisingly generous space in a city-friendly package, positioning itself as a potential go-to family electric vehicle. As Kia's current smallest EV, this model has been meticulously designed, engineered, and built in Europe with everyday practicality as a primary focus, aiming to serve as a versatile all-rounder rather than merely a short-distance runabout.
Expanding Kia's Electric Lineup
Kia is rapidly expanding its electric vehicle portfolio, with the new EV2 joining the acclaimed, World Car award-winning EV3, alongside the EV4, EV5, EV6, and EV9 models. Rumours also suggest an EV1 may be forthcoming. Despite its compact dimensions—just over four metres in length—the EV2 is firmly situated in the competitive compact SUV segment, where it will directly rival the upcoming Volkswagen ID. Cross and Skoda Epiq. Rather than positioning it as a budget entry point, Kia has pitched the EV2 as bringing "the best of Kia" into a smaller, more accessible package, embodying what has been described as "little luxury."
Design and Strategic Vision
The EV2 boasts an upright front end, chunky proportions, and bold detailing that grant it substantial road presence. It appears larger than its actual size and stands out distinctly among the often homogeneous small SUV crowd. Kia's strategy acknowledges that EVs are increasingly used like traditional petrol and diesel cars, with owners undertaking longer trips and holidays as confidence in charging infrastructure grows. Consequently, range remains a paramount concern for buyers, and the EV2 has been engineered to compete robustly in this area, positioning it as a viable primary household vehicle rather than merely a secondary option.
Testing and First Impressions
Our initial drive of the EV2 took place in and around Lisbon, Portugal, encompassing city streets, motorways, and twisty roads typically suited to sports cars—which the EV2 handled commendably. Practicality was assessed through rear-seat rides, boot capacity tests, audio system evaluations with standard test tracks, and thorough examinations of the vehicle's technology and electric drive efficiency.
Performance, Range, and Charging
For this first drive, we sampled the standard-range EV2 with a 42.2 kWh battery offering a claimed 197-mile range, set to arrive mid-year. A long-range version with a 61.0 kWh battery and 281-mile range will follow later. The standard model pairs its battery with a 143bhp motor, achieving 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds—adequate for daily driving without aspiring to sportiness. Charging is a strong suit: the standard-range EV2 supports up to 118kW DC rapid charging, enabling a 10-80% top-up in approximately 29 minutes, while the long-range variant should take about 30 minutes for its larger battery. Notably, the EV2 is Kia's first model to offer 22kW AC charging from launch, alongside the usual 11kW system, which could prove highly beneficial given the UK's existing AC infrastructure.
Kia estimates that, based on average usage, the standard-range car could last around 10 days between charges, with the long-range version extending to two weeks. Range remains reassuringly accurate even in cold conditions, mirroring the reliability seen in other Kia and Hyundai models.
Driving Dynamics and Refinement
On the road, the EV2 delivers smooth, responsive acceleration ideal for urban and A-road driving. The ride is generally well-judged, comfortable on city streets without excessive firmness, though it can feel slightly loose and floaty over longer undulations before settling. Refinement is impressive, with extensive sound-deadening ensuring quietness at motorway speeds, lending the EV2 a more substantial feel than its compact dimensions suggest.
Interior, Practicality, and Boot Space
The EV2's interior benefits from a space-efficient EV powertrain, offering ample headroom and good legroom upfront, with an airy cabin feel enhanced by its upright design. Visibility is excellent all around, facilitated by a clear rear view and large mirrors, making it particularly suited to urban environments. However, the front seat base is somewhat flat and bench-like, lacking optimal support, though the mesh headrests are exceptionally comfortable.
Material quality is mixed: fabric trim on the dashboard and doors adds a nice touch, but harder plastics on doors and the centre console are evident, and some test cars displayed minor quality issues. A contentious design choice is the pastel lime-green trim in the centre console and door handles, which appears cheap; darker trims feel more premium. Rear space is decent, with good headroom but limited knee room for adults, aligning with rivals, though it will suffice for children. Boot space measures 362 litres in the five-seat version, expanding to 403 litres in the four-seat model with sliding rear seats—useful but trailing some competitors. A small frunk under the bonnet is ideal for cable storage.
Technology, Stereo, and Infotainment
The EV2 boasts a high-tech triple-screen layout: a 12.3-inch driver display, a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, and a separate climate display. It supports over-the-air updates and Kia's "Upgrades" system for post-purchase feature additions. A digital key function allows smartphone operation, including remote parking. An optional Harman/Kardon audio system delivers surprisingly punchy, well-balanced sound for an affordable car. Driver assistance features include Highway Driving Assist 2, adaptive cruise control, and an in-cabin monitoring system.
However, the steering wheel can obstruct parts of the climate display, and touch-sensitive shortcut keys are difficult to see in bright daylight with lighter trims. The built-in navigation, while functional, is less intuitive than Google Maps.
Pricing and Running Costs
UK pricing is yet to be confirmed but is expected to range from £25,000 to £35,000, positioning the EV2 competitively in the small electric SUV market. Running costs should be favourable due to strong efficiency, realistic range estimates, and flexible charging options. The EV2 also offers vehicle-to-load capability, enhancing practicality by powering external devices.
Verdict and Rivals
The Kia EV2 represents intelligent thinking: compact for easy living, yet spacious enough for family use, with technology and charging flexibility uncommon at this price point. While compromises exist in interior materials and ergonomics, the overall package is compelling—quiet, comfortable, easy to drive, and perceptibly larger than its size. If UK pricing aligns with expectations, the EV2 could emerge as one of the most appealing small electric SUVs available, rivalling the Renault 4, Volkswagen ID. Cross, and Skoda Epiq.
