Kia EV2 Subcompact Electric SUV for Europe Unveiled: Up to 448km Range, Rapid Charging, ADAS

Kia has taken the wraps off its most compact and affordable electric car in Europe yet, the new EV2. Positioned below the EV3, it will serve as a new, more accessible entry point for the brand’s lineup and is being positioned as a B-segment option for those who want an EV as their primary family car. 

The subcompact SUV will be available in standard-range and long-range variants, plus a more premium, outdoorsy GT-line. Pricing and exact variant details have not been announced yet. The EV2 will initially be manufactured on Kia’s E-GMP platform at its Žilina, Slovakia plant for sale in the UK and Europe. 

Kia EV2 Design 

The EV2 has been designed around Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, with similarities to some of the company’s larger EV models. Despite being Kia’s smallest EV yet, it says the EV2 has a “confident SUV stance and character”. It measures 4,060mm long with a 2,565 wheelbase, 1,800mm wide, and 1,575mm tall. Cargo space is 362 litres in a five-seat configuration, or 403 litres as a four-seater. 

There are vertical headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights. Kia has integrated the same “tiger nose” front and “star map” light signature elements that have been seen on some other models.

Three trim levels have been announced so far, starting with EV2 Air, which has 16-inch alloy wheels, a 6-speaker audio system, dual-zone temperature control and roof rails. EV2 Earth gets 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, ambient lighting, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and Highway Driving Assist 2.0. The EV2 GT-Line steps up to 19-inch alloy wheels, a three-spoke steering wheel, metal pedals, ventilated front seats with memory for the driver, and Digital Key 2.0.

The GT-Line variant is described as bolder and more premium, with body‑coloured garnishes and high‑gloss accents. 

Kia EV2 Interior and Tech

Sliding and reclining rear seats allow for legroom to extend up to 958mm. With the seats fully slid forward, cargo capacity goes up to 403 litres, with an additional 15-litre frunk.

On the inside, the EV2’s cabin is said to be inspired by a picnic box. The infotainment system features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, with an additional 5.3-inch touchscreen for climate control. A new ccNC Lite software platform brings Kia’s ccNC features to a lower segment. It supports over-the-air updates except for maps, and downloadable apps for entertainment and customisation.

Kia’s connected experience includes integrated EV route planning based on charger availability, Plug & Charge functionality that doesn’t need cards or apps, and V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) plus V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) charging (depending on region).

ADAS features include Forward Collision Avoidance, Cruise Control, Blind-spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, Lane Follow Assistance, Parking Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Warning, and more. Remote Smart Parking Assist Entry allows owners to park their EV2 in a tight space after alighting, using the smart key, which Kia says is unique in this segment.

Kia EV2 Range and Specifications

The EV2 will be sold with two battery capacity options. The 42.2kWh standard range variants will go into production starting in February, and the 61kWh (long range) versions as well as the GT-Line will be available in June 2026. While certification is pending, Kia claims up to 317km and 448km for the two battery options, respectively.

A 400V architecture enables rapid DC charging, with both batteries claimed to be able to get from 10 percent to 80 percent in 30 minutes. AC charging speeds (22kW) are rated at 2 hours, 35 minutes and 3 hours, respectively. Slower 11kW AC charging is also supported, keeping European conditions in mind.