Kia unveils the EV2, a European-built, B-segment electric SUV, offering the brand’s most accessible entry into its EV line-up
Two battery options (42.2kWh and 61.0kWh) deliver anticipated best-in-class ranges of up to 317 and 448 kilometres, respectively (WLTP pending)
EV2 combines state-of-the-art technology with smart safety systems and connectivity features
Advanced infotainment system options available with triple-screen functionality, OTA updates, and Kia Upgrades
Compact dimensions offer generous space and versatility with sliding and reclining rear seats and up to 403 litres of cargo capacity
Versatile design allows the EV2 to serve as the primary car for European households, making electric mobility easier than ever
Kia has revealed the EV2, a new electric B-segment SUV that represents the brand’s entry point into its expanding electric portfolio. The EV2 combines bold design, advanced technology, and everyday versatility, offering the best of Kia in its most compact electric car yet.
The EV2 builds on Kia’s proven leadership in electric mobility. Following the success of award-winning models, such as the EV6, EV9, EV3, and, most recently, the EV4, the EV2 brings Kia’s EV expertise into a more accessible, compact segment, expanding the brand’s reach to a broader audience across Europe. Entering Europe’s second-largest automotive segment, the B-SUV segment, the EV2 strengthens Kia’s position in a market that is expected to grow significantly in relevance for electric vehicles by the end of the decade.
“The Kia EV2 represents a significant step in making electric mobility accessible to a broader audience”, said Soohang Chang, President and CEO of Kia Europe. “As our most compact EV, it blends bold design with cutting-edge advancements in charging, connectivity, and safety. Building the EV2 in Slovakia reinforces our commitment to Europe and ensures this model reflects the needs and expectations of drivers across the continent.”
Designed to stand outThe EV2 embodies Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, featuring strong elements like upright cues inspired by Kia’s larger EVs to emphasise its confident SUV stance and character. At around four metres long, the model combines a compact footprint with strong proportions tailored to urban environments.
Vertical daytime running lights, Kia’s latest Star Map Light Signature, a pronounced shoulder line, and robust wheel arches create a distinctive exterior.
Wheel options range from 16- to 19-inch designs. Customers can also choose from a wide selection of exterior finishes, including solid, metallic, pearl, and matte.
The ‘GT-Line’ variant further elevates the EV2’s lifestyle‑oriented character, featuring bold body‑coloured garnishes and high‑gloss accents on the bumper and lower front grille. Together, these elements create a more confident and premium look inspired by outdoor adventure.
Designed inside for maximum usabilityInside, the EV2 offers an open, calming cabin inspired by a “Picnic Box” concept, blending logic and emotion through fabric-rich materials and intuitive design. A wraparound dashboard surrounds occupants, enhancing comfort and perceived spaciousness.
The EV2 features Kia’s latest triple-screen ccNC infotainment system: 12.3-inch driver cluster, 5.3-inch climate control screen, and 12.3-inch central touchscreen display. Ambient lighting and eco-friendly materials reinforce the modern interior atmosphere.
As Kia’s most compact EV to date, the EV2 also introduces the new ccNC Lite infotainment system. It mirrors the same display layout and core features as ccNC but is available at a lower price point. Both systems support OTA (over-the-air) updates and Kia Upgrades1.
A new sliding and reclining rear seat system maximises everyday usability. Rear legroom extends from 885 millimetres to a segment-leading 958 millimetres. When the seats are fully slid forward, the EV2 offers an impressive boot capacity of up to 403 litres. The boot space is complemented by a 15-litre frunk.
In the standard seating position, headroom measures 973mm for both the four – and five -seat configurations. For the four-seat model, headroom is 968mm when the seats are in the maximum rear-sliding position, and 955mm when in the maximum rear-sliding and reclining position.
Compact on the outside, generous on the insideBuilt on Kia’s dedicated electric platform, the EV2 combines compact exterior dimensions with interior space comparable to larger segments.
A 2,565 millimetre wheelbase allows for various seating arrangements. Customers can choose either a five-seat configuration or a four-seat layout with independent sliding and reclining rear seats, making the EV2 flexible enough to function as the main car of the household.
“Every element of the EV2 has been engineered with European lifestyles in mind, said Sjoerd Knipping, COO of Kia Europe. “Its compact size, generous interior space, and advanced technology make it easy to integrate into everyday life. By bringing upper-segment features into an entry electric model, the EV2 broadens the appeal of electric driving.”
Confident electric performanceThe EV2 is available with two battery options: a 42.2kWh standard-range battery and a 61.0kWh long-range battery. Anticipated all-electric driving ranges reach up to 317 kilometres for the standard-range version and up to 448 kilometres for the long-range version (WLTP pending).
Both versions feature a 400V architecture and deliver rapid DC fast charging. The standard-range model completes the process in 29 minutes, while the long-range versions take around 30 minutes – ensuring quick and convenient charging for every journey.
For the first time in a Kia model at launch, the EV2 supports both 11kW and 22kW AC charging, reflecting the predominance of AC charging infrastructure across Europe and offering greater flexibility for home and public charging.
The EV2 delivers a fully connected EV experience through an integrated EV Route Planner linked to Kia Charge, Plug & Charge functionality for seamless charging without cards or apps, and bidirectional charging via V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid), enabling customers to power external devices or feed energy back into the grid2.
Upper-segment technology in an entry modelThe EV2 offers a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and connectivity features typically found in higher segments.
Standard and available systems include Highway Driving Assist 2, Front Collision Avoidance Assist 2.0, Smart Cruise Control 2, Blind-spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, and the latest parking assistance technologies. Remote Smart Parking Assist Entry allows the vehicle to be manoeuvred from outside using the smart key, a feature unique in the segment.
Digital convenience is enhanced through full Kia App integration, Digital Key using NFC, Bluetooth, and Ultra-Wideband technology, OTA updates, and Features on Demand. An available eight-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system further elevates the in-car experience.
A responsible choice for electric mobilityThe EV2 reflects Kia’s commitment to sustainability through the application of its ten material solutions across both interior and exterior. These include bio- and BTX-free exterior paint, bio-based plastics, bio-PU seat upholstery, and carpets and felts made from recycled PET sourced from fishing nets.
Produced at Kia’s Žilina plant in Slovakia, the EV2 benefits from shorter transport routes, supports European jobs along the value chain, and underlines Kia’s investment in market-oriented, responsible mobility solutions.
European productionThe EV2 is the second fully electric model produced at Kia’s Žilina facility, following the EV4. Production will begin in two phases, with the standard-range model entering production in February 2026, followed by long-range and ‘GT-line’ variants from June 2026.
Market launch timings will be confirmed closer to start of sales.
Post navigation
Automobile Magazine-UK
