Kia has taken a significant step toward introducing its upcoming EV3 electric SUV to the United States, with early prototype units now being assembled in Mexico.
Production records indicate that 15 EV3 units were built last month at Kia’s manufacturing facility in Pesquería, Nuevo León. These vehicles are believed to be pre-production prototypes, aligning with recent reports of camouflaged EV3 models undergoing road testing as the automaker advances development.
The modest production volume suggests Kia is proceeding cautiously as it prepares to scale up output for the North American market. The timing also coincides with an upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) scheduled for July, with industry sources noting that Kia is likely monitoring policy developments before committing to broader manufacturing expansion.
The EV3 has already demonstrated strong global potential. Since its European debut in November 2024, the compact electric SUV has gained popularity due to its competitive pricing and impressive driving range of up to 375 miles. Starting at approximately €36,000 (around $38,300), the model quickly climbed sales charts, ranking third in the United Kingdom within its first year and securing a place among the top ten best-selling electric vehicles across Europe and Australia.
Kia recently confirmed at the New York International Auto Show that the EV3 will be introduced in the U.S., clarifying earlier uncertainty around its launch timeline. Positioned as an entry-level electric SUV, the model is designed to bring features from the larger EV9 to a more accessible price point, targeting a broader consumer base.
In the U.S., the EV3 will be offered in five trims: Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT. The entry-level Light variant is expected to feature a 58.3 kWh battery paired with a front-mounted electric motor, delivering an estimated range of up to 220 miles.
Higher trims will utilize a larger 81.4 kWh battery, extending range to approximately 320 miles in front-wheel-drive configurations. All-wheel drive will be optional on the Wind and Land trims and standard on the GT-Line and GT variants.
Built on Kia’s 400-volt E-GMP platform, the EV3 will support DC fast charging. The smaller battery is expected to charge from 10% to 80% in about 29 minutes, while the larger battery will require roughly 31 minutes under similar conditions.
Although official U.S. pricing has not yet been announced, the EV3 is widely expected to start at around $35,000, positioning it below the EV6, which currently begins at $42,900.
Upon its arrival, the EV3 will enter a highly competitive segment of affordable electric SUVs in the U.S., competing with models such as the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Toyota’s bZ lineup. Tesla’s Model Y continues to dominate overall EV sales in the country, followed by the Model 3 and a growing range of mainstream electric crossovers.
