Electric car Kia EV2: Compact, variable, electric
Kia promises high everyday usability for its compact electric SUV. Thanks to its variability, the Kia EV2 is intended to appeal to many Europeans.
(Image: Kia)
- Wolfgang Gomoll
With the EV2, Kia is introducing an electric car positioned below the already successful electric car models EV6 (Test), EV9, EV3, and EV4. Smaller and competitive thanks to the proven technology of the 400-volt E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform), the B-segment car is set to launch in February 2026. With a length of around 4.06 m, the crossover model is clearly positioned below the Kia EV3 (Test). However, it is intended to offer more than just urban mobility or undercut direct competitors in price. Kia promises a “practical for everyday use” electric car that should appeal to many Europeans with its variability.
Variable Interior
The seating concept is particularly variable, and its flexibility can be further enhanced for an additional charge. When the classic rear seat is pushed forward by 8 cm, the trunk offers a capacity of 403 liters. In addition, there is a frunk with 15 liters for charging cables or small items. In the optional five-seater variant, it is even 16 cm, and the backrests are adjustable. With the rear seat pushed back, Kia promises legroom of 96 cm, otherwise just under 89 cm. This space is made possible by the wheelbase of 2.56 m, which is large for a compact car – an advantage of the electric drive.
Kia EV2, Teil 1 (8 Bilder)
Kia
)22 kW AC Charging
Initially, the EV2 will come with an output of 108 kW; a GT version expected later will be more powerful. Two battery sizes are available: 42.2 and 61.0 kWh. In WLTP, this is sufficient for around 317 and 448 km, respectively. Kia also offers more flexibility than usual when charging with up to 22 kW of alternating current. This is particularly relevant for those who park on the street and for users of public AC charging stations, as it significantly reduces charging times. Occasional charging while shopping is simply more worthwhile with 22 kW.
DC charging takes at least 29 minutes for a ten to eighty percent charge with the standard model with 42.2 kWh; with the long-range variant with 61 kWh, it takes about a minute longer. Kia has not yet specified the corresponding charging powers, but with the EV3, they are not top values at a maximum of 101 kW for the small and 128 kW for the large battery. Judging by the charging times, this is unlikely to improve much with the EV2.
Plug & Charge, V2L, and V2G
Plug & Charge simplifies charging: at compatible fast chargers, simply plugging in the cable is enough, and the car identifies itself automatically. A charging card or an app is then not necessary. For home use, the EV2 also offers bidirectional charging (V2L and V2G). In terms of driving performance, the Kia EV2 maintains a respectable distance from the EV3. The EV2 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.7 s with the 42.2-kWh battery, while it takes 9.5 s with the large battery. Both are capable of speeds up to 160 km/h.
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Charging Route Planner and Remote Parking
In the EV2, Kia is also incorporating its ccNC infotainment system with three displays. It consists of a 12.3-inch instrument behind the steering wheel, a 5.3-inch screen for climate functions, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the center. Additionally, the compact Korean car offers over-the-air updates and a route planner with charging integration. It also features a parking system that allows the EV2 to be maneuvered from the outside using the key. Some of these features may only be included in the top variants or cost extra.
Kia EV2, Teil 2 (6 Bilder)
Kia
)A Fiat Grande Panda Elektro (Test) costs from 24,990 Euros, the Citroën ë-C3 (Test) at least 23,300 Euros, and the BYD Atto 2 (Test) already 31,990 Euros. Other electric B-SUVs cost well over 35,000 Euros. For example, the Opel Mokka Electric (Test) costs at least 36,740 Euros, a Volvo EX30 (Test) around 36,590 Euros, a Smart #1 about 36,990 Euros, a Jeep Avenger Elektro 38,500 Euros, and a Peugeot E-2008 already 40,550 Euros. Much suggests that Kia will opt for a middle ground with an entry-level price for the EV2 of around 30,000 Euros. Incidentally, Kia has located its development center in Rüsselsheim, and the production of the EV2 in Žilina, Slovakia. Initially, the standard range version will be available from February 2026, followed by the long-range and GT-Line versions from June 2026.
(afl)