The Kia EV3 GT-Line S is a striking addition to the electric vehicle market, blending cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and practicality. As the flagship trim of Kia’s EV3 lineup, the GT-Line S promises a premium experience for those seeking a compact crossover with futuristic appeal.

Design and First Impressions

Kia’s design philosophy, “Opposites United,” is quite evident with the EV3 GT-Line S. This compact crossover exudes confidence with its bold lines, “Star Map” signature lighting concept, and flush door handles that lend a modern, aerodynamic touch. The gloss black accents on the side sills and wheel arches elevate its sporty aesthetic, while 19-inch alloy wheels complete the look.

The front sunroof, exclusive to the GT-Line S trim, adds a luxurious feel to an already impressive exterior.

Inside, the cabin is equally forward-thinking. Kia has crafted an open and relaxing interior space with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements. The dual 12.3-inch displays—one for the driver’s instrument cluster and another for infotainment—dominate the dashboard. The inclusion of a 5.3-inch climate control touchscreen further underscores Kia’s commitment to intuitive controls.

Performance and Range

Under the bonnet (or rather under the floor), the EV3 GT-Line S features an 81.4 kWh battery paired with a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 201 bhp and 283 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes just 7.9 seconds—a respectable figure for a family-oriented EV. The car feels sprightly in urban settings, with its instant torque making overtaking effortless.

The real star here is the range: up to 361 miles on a single charge (WLTP). This places the EV3 among the leaders in its class for long-distance capability, making it ideal for both daily commutes and extended road trips. Charging is equally impressive; using a 300 kW DC fast charger, you can replenish from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes—perfect for those on tight schedules. A 50kW charger increases that time to 1 hour and 19 minutes.

Fully charged on my Rolec unit, the indicated display was just over 300 miles, but I can report that over many miles of mixed running, that figure proved to be remarkably accurate. And I did not drive with economy in mind, air conditioning on.

Technology and Features

Kia has packed the GT-Line S with an array of advanced technologies that enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment. Highlights include:

Highway Driving Assist 2.0: A semi-autonomous driving feature that combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance.
360° Surround View Monitor: Makes parking in tight spaces effortless.
Remote Smart Parking Assist: Allows you to park or retrieve your car remotely—a feature that feels like it’s straight out of a sci-fi movie.
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Ensures seamless smartphone integration.
Harman Kardon Sound System: Delivers crisp audio quality for music lovers.

Additionally, Kia’s AI voice assistant adds an extra layer of convenience by enabling hands-free control over various functions.

Ride and Comfort

The EV3 GT-Line S offers a smooth and composed ride thanks to its well-tuned suspension and low centre of gravity—a hallmark of EVs with floor-mounted batteries. In Sport mode, the steering sharpens and throttle response becomes more immediate, catering to those who enjoy spirited driving. However, even in Eco or Normal modes, the car feels agile and responsive.

The seats are supportive yet plush, ensuring comfort on long journeys. Rear passengers benefit from ample legroom and reclining seats, while the panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light.

Practicality

With its compact dimensions (4310 mm length x 1850 mm width), the EV3 is easy to manoeuvre in urban environments without compromising interior space. Boot capacity is generous at 495 litres—enough for family luggage or weekly shopping trips—and expands further with the rear seats folded.

Safety

Safety remains paramount in Kia’s design ethos. The GT-Line S comes loaded with features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) 2.0, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear-Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA), and more. These systems work seamlessly to provide peace of mind on every journey.

Verdict

The Kia EV3 GT-Line S is a testament to how far electric vehicles have come in recent years. It combines style, substance, and sustainability into one compelling package that will appeal to families and tech enthusiasts alike. While its price tag may be higher than entry-level trims or some competitors, it justifies this premium with its extensive feature set and impressive range.

For those ready to embrace an electric future without sacrificing practicality or luxury, the Kia EV3 GT-Line S stands as one of the most well-rounded options in today’s market—a true star in Kia’s ever-expanding EV lineup.

Fast Facts
Kia EV3 GT-Line S
Price £43,895
Pistachio Green paint (£625)
201bhp
0-62mph in 7.9 seconds
Top speed 105mph
Official range 361 miles