Review: Kia EV2

My co-driver is not usually a fan of small cars, particularly electric ones. I was therefore surprised when, on more than one occasion during our week-long test, he said how much he liked the Kia EV2.

The EV2 is now the Korean manufacturer’s smallest and most affordable electric car. But don’t be fooled by its compact dimensions: its boxy interior is packed with everything needed for comfortable motoring.

The shape plays a big part in its versatility. All five occupants enjoy decent amounts of head, leg and shoulder room, making it feel considerably more spacious than its exterior suggests, for everyday family use.

Designed specifically for the European market, the EV2 comes in a simplified line-up: a First Edition with a 42.2kWh battery, and a long-range 61kWh version offered in Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S trims.

The larger battery has an official range of 257 to 275 miles, depending on specification, and qualifies for the £3,750 government grant, compared with £1,500 for the smaller-battery model.

Charging times are impressive, too. The long-range version can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes using a rapid charger. An 11kW charger takes five and a half hours to replenish the battery from empty to full.

Prices start at £24,245 for the Air 61kWh and rise to £32,595 for the GT-Line S. The options list is refreshingly short: buyers simply choose from eight paint colours, although availability varies between trim levels.

On the road, the EV2 provides a relaxing drive, whether negotiating town traffic or covering longer distances. It copes exceptionally well for a relatively small car, with comfortable seats and technology that is accessible and intuitive to use.

Boot space is a useful 362 litres, expanding to 1,201 litres with the rear seats folded. Higher-specification models also have an extra 15-litre storage compartment under the bonnet, ideal for keeping the charging cable out of the way.

Kia is forecasting 12,500 EV2 sales in 2027, with the GT-Line, as tested, expected to be the best-seller. It costs £28,995 after the government grant.

Equipment levels are generous across the range. Every version gets heated front seats, automatic air conditioning, split-folding rear seats and a three-screen dashboard comprising a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch driver display and 5.3in climate-control screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and four USB ports – two front and two rear – are also standard.

The GT-Line adds 19in alloy wheels, compared with the Air’s 16in items, automatic flush door handles, distinctive interior and exterior styling, electric driver’s-seat adjustment, adaptive driving beam and wireless phone charging. The range-topping GT-Line S brings a sliding sunroof and Harman Kardon premium sound system, while a heat pump is optional.

The safety equipment list is equally comprehensive. All models have front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, smart cruise control and numerous collision-warning and driver-alert systems. Hill-start assist is included, too.

The EV2 is a very convincing addition to Kia’s electric line-up. It is practical, comfortable, well equipped and surprisingly spacious for such a compact car. The range is competitive, charging times are respectable and, importantly, it doesn't try to reinvent the wheel with unnecessary gimmicks.

It is an easy car to live with and, judging by my co-driver’s unexpected enthusiasm, one that could win over even the most sceptical electric small-car critics.

Specification

Price: £28,995 (As tested £29,645)

Engine: 61kWh Li-ion battery

Power: 133bhp

Torque: 184lb/ft

Transmission: Single-speed automatic

Top speed: 100mph

0-62mph: 9.7 seconds

CO2 emissions: 0g/km