2027 Kia EV3: Price, Trims, Range, Specs & What Joliet Drivers Should Know

Quick Answer

The 2027 Kia EV3 is an all-new compact electric SUV with a starting MSRP of $29,890 before destination, making it the most affordable electric vehicle in Kia’s U.S. lineup. It is offered in five trims—Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT—with front-wheel drive or available dual-motor all-wheel drive depending on configuration.

The EV3 Light FWD has an EPA-estimated 221 miles of range, Wind and Land FWD models reach an EPA-estimated 321 miles, and long-range AWD configurations are EPA-estimated at 280 miles. Every EV3 includes a built-in NACS charging port, while Kia says DC fast charging can take the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 29 minutes on the Light or 31 minutes on long-range models under appropriate conditions.

Last updated: August 19, 2026

Why the 2027 Kia EV3 Is a Big Deal for Electric SUV Shoppers

The EV3 gives Kia a smaller, more attainable entry point into its dedicated electric-vehicle lineup. Built on Kia’s 400-volt Electric Global Modular Platform, or E-GMP, it brings several ideas familiar from larger Kia EVs into a compact SUV designed around everyday driving.

What makes the U.S.-spec EV3 particularly interesting is the combination of price and configuration flexibility. Buyers can choose an entry-level 58.3-kWh Light, long-range 81.4-kWh Wind and Land models with either FWD or available AWD, a standard-AWD GT-Line, or the 288-horsepower EV3 GT.

For Joliet-area shoppers, that means the EV3 can fill several different roles: an affordable commuter EV, a 300-plus-mile-range daily driver, an all-weather electric SUV or a more performance-focused compact EV.

2027 Kia EV3 Exterior Design: EV9 Influence in a Smaller Package

The EV3 follows Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy and shares a clear family resemblance with the larger EV9.

Its exterior uses Kia’s Star Map lighting signature, vertically oriented front lighting, short overhangs and geometric bodywork to create the upright appearance of an SUV without requiring a large footprint. Hidden rear door handles help clean up the side profile, while 17-inch and available 19-inch alloy wheels give buyers different looks depending on trim.

Kia also offers an available Nightfall Package created specifically for the U.S. market. Current Kia information describes Nightfall equipment including black exterior accents, unique 19-inch black wheels, dark badging, bridge-style roof rails and a dark gray interior treatment.

The result is a vehicle that brings much of the visual personality of the EV9 to a size better suited to parking lots, city streets and daily commuting around Joliet and Chicagoland.

EV3 Exterior Dimensions

Kia uses aerodynamic wheels, a front bumper active air flap, a full underbody cover and lightweight materials to help the EV3 achieve its 0.275 coefficient of drag.

2027 Kia EV3 Battery, Range & Powertrain Specs

The EV3 uses two battery sizes.

The Light FWD receives a 58.3-kWh standard-range battery. Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT models use the larger 81.4-kWh long-range battery. The larger battery also makes dual-motor electronic all-wheel drive possible.

EPA ratings now provide a much clearer picture of how those configurations compare.

2027 Kia EV3 EPA Range by Configuration

These are EPA estimates; actual range varies with temperature, speed, driving style, climate-control use, vehicle equipment, battery condition and other factors.

For maximum range, Wind FWD and Land FWD are the EV3 configurations to know. Both receive the larger battery without the additional energy demands associated with the dual-motor AWD system.

For drivers more concerned with additional traction during changing Midwest conditions, Wind and Land can instead be configured with e-AWD, while GT-Line and GT include all-wheel drive as standard equipment.

How Fast Is the 2027 Kia EV3?

The EV3 lineup offers three basic levels of performance.

The Light’s single-motor FWD system produces 201 horsepower and 209 lb.-ft. of torque, according to Kia’s current U.S. build-and-price information. Dual-motor AWD EV3 configurations produce up to 261 horsepower, while the performance-oriented EV3 GT increases output to 288 horsepower and 345 lb.-ft. of torque.

That gives buyers a clear progression: efficiency-focused FWD, stronger dual-motor AWD performance, or the dedicated GT.

2027 Kia EV3 Trim Levels & Official Pricing

Kia offers five EV3 trim names but seven drivetrain configurations because Wind and Land can each be ordered with FWD or AWD.

Official pricing announced by Kia America is:

*MSRP excludes Kia’s $1,495 destination charge, taxes, title, licensing, options and retailer charges. Actual selling prices are set by the retailer and may vary.

EV3 Light: The Most Affordable Way Into a Kia EV

Starting at $29,890 before destination, the Light is the entry point to the EV3 lineup.

It uses the 58.3-kWh battery, front-wheel drive and a 201-horsepower motor. EPA-estimated range is 221 miles.

The Light isn’t stripped of the technology that defines the EV3. Kia lists equipment including a built-in NACS port, i-Pedal 3.0 one-pedal driving, dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays with navigation, a separate 5-inch climate display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control and an extensive group of driver-assistance technologies.

Best fit: Buyers prioritizing the lowest EV3 purchase price and primarily using the vehicle for commuting and local driving.

EV3 Wind: The Range Leader

The Wind FWD starts at $34,990 and is likely to attract shoppers focused on maximizing driving range.

Its larger 81.4-kWh battery produces an EPA-estimated 321 miles of range, the highest rating in the EV3 lineup.

AWD can be added to the Wind for $3,700, bringing its starting MSRP to $38,690. Kia’s AWD package includes the dual-motor system along with equipment such as a heat pump, heated steering wheel and 19-inch wheels.

Best fit: Range-focused commuters and EV road-trip shoppers.

EV3 Land: More Premium Equipment With FWD or AWD

The Land starts at $38,490 with FWD and retains the same EPA-estimated 321-mile range as the Wind FWD.

AWD is a $3,200 upgrade, bringing the Land AWD starting MSRP to $41,690 and its EPA-estimated range to 280 miles.

Land serves as the step toward the more feature-rich side of the EV3 range, making it attractive to buyers who want the larger battery and additional comfort, convenience and driver-assistance technology without moving directly into the sportier GT-Line.

Best fit: Drivers seeking a more premium EV3 while retaining a choice between maximum-range FWD and dual-motor AWD.

EV3 GT-Line: Sportier Style With Standard AWD

The GT-Line starts at $43,490 and includes dual-motor AWD as standard.

Its EPA-estimated range is 280 miles. GT-Line also brings more distinctive styling and upscale cabin treatments, building on the EV3’s design with a sportier look and additional premium content.

Best fit: Buyers who want standard AWD, upscale technology and sport-inspired styling without stepping all the way up to the GT.

EV3 GT: The 288-HP Performance Model

At the top of the lineup is the 2027 Kia EV3 GT, starting at $45,890 before destination.

The GT produces 288 horsepower and 345 lb.-ft. of torque through its dual-motor AWD system and carries an EPA-estimated 280-mile range.

This isn’t simply an appearance package. Kia equips the GT with sport-tuned suspension and steering, unique wheels, GT sport front seats, performance-inspired interior details and neon green accents. Virtual Gear Shift and Active Sound Design add another layer of engagement to the electric driving experience.

Best fit: Drivers who want the quickest, most performance-focused version of Kia’s compact electric SUV.

How Fast Does the 2027 Kia EV3 Charge?

The EV3 uses a 400-volt E-GMP architecture.

According to Kia, the smaller 58.3-kWh battery in the Light can charge from approximately 10% to 80% in 29 minutes with compatible DC fast-charging equipment under suitable conditions.

The larger 81.4-kWh battery used by Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT models can complete the same 10%-to-80% charge in approximately 31 minutes.

Every U.S.-market EV3 also includes a native North American Charging Standard, or NACS, port. That provides direct compatibility with participating NACS charging locations, including compatible Tesla Superchargers, without needing a NACS adapter.

Kia also includes Plug & Charge capability through Kia Charge Pass, allowing charging to begin automatically at compatible participating chargers after the required account setup.

For EV drivers traveling between Joliet, Chicago and destinations beyond Illinois, that broader charging compatibility may be as important as the vehicle’s maximum range.

Interior, Cargo Space & Technology

One of the EV3’s biggest advantages is how efficiently Kia uses its compact footprint.

The cabin has an open center-console design, reclining rear seats, rear climate vents and a flat-floor EV layout. Available upgrades include heated and ventilated front seats, multicolor ambient lighting and additional premium technology.

Kia also includes a two-position luggage floor with underfloor storage, while an available Smart Power Liftgate can simplify loading.

That gives the EV3 useful flexibility for groceries, commuting equipment, luggage, sports gear and weekend trips without requiring a midsize SUV.

Nearly 30 Inches of Standard Display Technology

Every EV3 receives Kia’s panoramic Connected Car Navigation Cockpit.

The layout combines:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument display
• 5-inch climate display
• 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen

Together, they create nearly 30 inches of combined display area.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Available technology can include features such as a 12-inch Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon premium audio, Digital Key 2.0, wireless phone charging, Surround View Monitor and additional connected entertainment services.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Technology

The EV3 is equipped with eight airbags and a broad collection of Kia driver-assistance technologies.

Kia’s current EV3 information includes standard and available systems such as:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Junction Turning detection
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Highway Driving Assist
• Available Highway Driving Assist 2
• Available Surround View Monitor
• Available Blind-Spot View Monitor
• Available Remote Smart Parking Assist

Equipment varies by trim and configuration. These systems can be particularly useful in the mix of highway traffic, suburban streets and crowded parking environments drivers encounter around Joliet and Chicagoland.

Suspension, Handling & Illinois Winter Capability

All EV3 models use a MacPherson-strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

The GT gets dedicated sport tuning for both the suspension and steering, while Kia also added sound-absorbing and damping materials throughout the body to reduce noise and vibration.

For Chicagoland drivers, the more important decision may be FWD versus AWD.

Wind and Land shoppers can choose between them. Selecting FWD maximizes EPA-rated range at 321 miles, while AWD reduces the rating to 280 miles but adds a second motor for additional traction and power.

GT-Line and GT include AWD automatically. Kia also pairs AWD availability with an available heat pump, which can help preserve range in colder weather.

Vehicle-to-Load & Vehicle-to-Home Capability

The EV3 can do more with its battery than simply propel the vehicle.

Available Vehicle-to-Load, or V2L, functionality allows compatible external devices to draw electricity from the EV3 battery with the required equipment. Examples can include laptops, campsite electronics, an e-bike or other compatible devices.

Kia also announced available Vehicle-to-Home, or V2H, functionality using compatible bidirectional home-charging equipment. When a home is properly equipped, V2H can allow stored vehicle energy to be sent back to portions of the home during certain circumstances. Additional charging hardware, installation and other requirements apply.

For homeowners evaluating an EV as part of a broader home-energy setup, that capability gives the EV3 another dimension beyond transportation.

How the EV3 Fits the Affordable Electric SUV Market

The EV3’s appeal isn’t based on a single specification.

The $29,890 Light gives buyers a lower-cost entry into Kia’s electric lineup. The 321-mile Wind and Land FWD models address drivers who prioritize range. Available AWD gives buyers another option for Midwest weather, and the 288-horsepower GT provides a genuinely different performance-oriented configuration at the top of the range.

Across the lineup, buyers also get native NACS charging, standard panoramic digital displays and Kia’s latest connected-vehicle technology.

That broad trim ladder is important because it lets shoppers decide what matters most—purchase price, maximum range, AWD traction, premium features or performance—without leaving the EV3 lineup.

2027 Kia EV3 Pricing & Availability Near Joliet, IL

Kia has now released official U.S. pricing and opened its online EV3 configuration tools.

At World Kia Joliet, the EV3 is currently listed as coming soon, so local inventory and arrival timing may change as vehicles begin reaching dealerships.

For shoppers in Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, Naperville, Bolingbrook, New Lenox and surrounding Chicago suburbs, contacting World Kia Joliet before arrival is the best way to:

• Ask about incoming EV3 inventory
• Compare Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT
• Discuss FWD versus AWD
• Review current pricing and available offers
• Value a trade
• Explore financing options
• Learn more about home and public EV charging

With official pricing now available, shoppers no longer need to rely on early estimates when deciding whether the EV3 fits their budget.

Why Shop for a Kia EV3 at World Kia Joliet?

Choosing the EV itself is only one part of switching to electric driving.

World Kia Joliet can help local buyers compare battery sizes, range requirements, charging options and EV3 trims based on how they actually drive around Joliet and greater Chicagoland.

For a driver with a shorter daily commute, for example, the 221-mile Light may provide more than enough range while keeping the entry price low. Someone regularly traveling throughout the Chicago area or taking longer road trips may prefer the 321-mile Wind FWD or Land FWD. Buyers who place a higher priority on winter traction can compare those models with their AWD counterparts.

And drivers looking for the most engaging EV3 can step into the 288-horsepower GT.

The important part is choosing the configuration that fits your driving—not simply buying the highest trim.

Key Takeaways

• The 2027 Kia EV3 starts at $29,890 MSRP before the $1,495 destination charge.
• Five trims are offered: Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT.
• Seven total trim/drivetrain combinations are available.
• Light FWD: 58.3-kWh battery and 221-mile EPA-estimated range.
• Wind FWD and Land FWD: 81.4-kWh battery and 321-mile EPA-estimated range.
• Wind AWD, Land AWD, GT-Line AWD and GT AWD: 280-mile EPA-estimated range.
• Wind and Land offer a choice between FWD and AWD.
• GT-Line and GT include AWD as standard.
• EV3 GT produces 288 horsepower and 345 lb.-ft. of torque.
• The Light can DC fast charge from approximately 10% to 80% in 29 minutes; long-range models can do so in approximately 31 minutes under suitable conditions.
• A native NACS charging port is standard.
• Nearly 30 inches of combined dashboard displays are standard.
• The EV3 provides up to 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.
• Available V2L and V2H technology can expand what owners can do with energy stored in the EV3 battery.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Kia EV3

• Q: How much does the 2027 Kia EV3 cost?
  A: The 2027 Kia EV3 starts at $29,890 MSRP for the Light FWD, excluding a $1,495 destination charge, taxes, registration, options and retailer charges. Wind starts at $34,990, Land at $38,490, GT-Line at $43,490 and GT at $45,890.

• Q: Which 2027 Kia EV3 has the longest range?
  A: The EV3 Wind FWD and EV3 Land FWD have the longest EPA-estimated range at 321 miles on a full charge.

• Q: What is the range of the cheapest Kia EV3?
  A: The entry-level 2027 Kia EV3 Light FWD has an EPA-estimated 221 miles of all-electric range from its 58.3-kWh battery.

• Q: What is the range of an AWD Kia EV3?
  A: Current EPA ratings list 280 miles of range for long-range AWD EV3 configurations, including Wind AWD, Land AWD, GT-Line AWD and GT AWD.

• Q: Does the 2027 Kia EV3 have all-wheel drive?
  A: Yes. Dual-motor e-AWD is optional on Wind and Land and standard on GT-Line and GT. Light is FWD only.

• Q: How much does AWD cost on the Kia EV3?
  A: On the Wind, Kia currently lists AWD as a $3,700 upgrade, taking MSRP from $34,990 to $38,690. On the Land, AWD adds $3,200, taking MSRP from $38,490 to $41,690.

• Q: How much horsepower does the Kia EV3 have?
  A: The Light FWD produces 201 horsepower and 209 lb.-ft. of torque. Dual-motor AWD EV3 models produce up to 261 horsepower, while the EV3 GT produces 288 horsepower and 345 lb.-ft. of torque.

• Q: How quickly can the Kia EV3 charge?
  A: Kia says the Light’s 58.3-kWh battery can charge from approximately 10% to 80% in 29 minutes, while the 81.4-kWh battery used by Wind, Land, GT-Line and GT can complete the same charge in approximately 31 minutes with compatible DC fast-charging equipment under appropriate conditions.

• Q: Can the Kia EV3 use Tesla Superchargers?
  A: The U.S.-market EV3 has a built-in NACS charging port, providing direct access to compatible Tesla Superchargers and other compatible NACS charging stations. Kia’s current EV3 page says the network includes access to more than 30,000 Tesla Superchargers.

• Q: Does the Kia EV3 come with a home charging cable?
  A: Kia’s current U.S. build information lists a dual-level 120V/240V portable charging cable among the EV3 Light’s equipment. Exact equipment should always be confirmed for the vehicle and trim being purchased.

• Q: How much cargo space does the Kia EV3 have?
  A: The EV3 provides 26.1 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, plus a small 0.9-cubic-foot front trunk.

• Q: Which 2027 Kia EV3 trim is best for range?
  A: For maximum EPA-rated range, choose Wind FWD or Land FWD, both rated at 321 miles. Wind offers the lower starting price of the two, while Land moves further into premium equipment.

• Q: Which Kia EV3 is best for Illinois winters?
  A: Drivers prioritizing additional traction may want to compare Wind AWD, Land AWD, GT-Line AWD or GT AWD. Kia also makes a heat pump available with AWD configurations, which can help manage energy use in cold conditions.