Kia has officially opened orders for its new entry-level electric vehicle, the EV2, across Europe, revealing final specifications and pricing that undercut earlier expectations. Starting at €26,600 (approximately $30,500), the EV2 enters the market as one of the more affordable options in Kia’s expanding electric lineup.
Thomas Djuren, Managing Director of Kia Germany, described the EV2 as a key addition to the brand’s portfolio, positioning it as an accessible yet compelling model aimed at broadening EV adoption. The compact hatchback measures just over 4,000 mm in length, making it smaller than rivals such as the Volkswagen ID.3, though Kia emphasizes that interior space remains competitive.
The EV2 is offered in four trims—Light, Air, Earth, and GT-Line—with two battery options available. A 42.2 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of up to 317 km (197 miles), while a larger 61 kWh pack extends range to 453 km (281 miles). Built on Kia’s E-GMP platform with a cost-efficient 400V architecture, the EV2 supports DC fast charging up to 118 kW, enabling a 10% to 80% recharge in approximately 30 minutes.
Inside, the EV2 features Kia’s latest connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system. Higher trims offer an optional triple-screen layout, including dual 12.3-inch displays for the driver cluster and infotainment, along with a 5.3-inch climate control screen. A simplified “Lite” version comes standard, retaining the same display configuration but omitting built-in navigation, with smartphone integration filling the gap through apps like Google Maps.
Despite its compact footprint, the EV2 benefits from a 2,565 mm wheelbase and flat-floor design, resulting in a flexible and spacious cabin. Rear passengers enjoy up to 958 mm of legroom, approaching levels seen in larger SUVs. Buyers can opt for either a traditional five-seat layout or a four-seat configuration with individual rear seats, available from the Earth trim upward.
The EV2 is equipped with a suite of connected features, including integrated EV route planning via Kia Charge, Plug & Charge functionality, and over-the-air software updates. It also supports bidirectional charging, with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities, allowing the car to power external devices or feed electricity back into the grid.
Production takes place at Kia’s Žilina plant in Slovakia, marking the second EV built at the facility after the EV4. Initial deliveries of the Air and Earth trims are scheduled to begin in April, with the full lineup—including larger battery variants and the GT-Line—rolling out from July.
Positioned below the popular EV3, the EV2 is expected to compete directly with emerging low-cost electric vehicles from Chinese automakers such as BYD, as well as upcoming models like the Volkswagen ID. Polo. However, the model is tailored specifically for the European market, with no plans currently announced for a U.S. release.
