Kia EV2 Review: Tiny SUV with a Wonderfully Strange Design and Thoughtful Packaging

When Kia announced the EV2, the automotive world braced for another practical city EV. What arrived was a compact SUV that feels like a design experiment turned everyday driver. With a range of up to 278 miles in Europe and a price tag under €30,000, the EV2 isn’t just affordable – it’s oddly delightful. In this article we’ll unpack the design quirks, dive into the specs, compare it with rivals, and answer the most common questions you might have.

First Impressions: A Design That Defies Convention

The EV2’s silhouette is unmistakable. Its roofline slopes gently toward the rear, while the front end sports a bold, almost sculptural grille-less fascia. The tiny SUV stance is accentuated by pronounced wheel arches that hide a surprisingly spacious cabin.

Why the “wonderfully strange” look works

Design isn’t just about looks; it’s about how those looks translate to everyday use. The EV2’s unconventional shape creates a larger visual footprint without adding length, making it feel larger in tight city streets. The high roofline provides generous headroom, and the rear hatch opens wide enough for a stroller or grocery bags.

Thoughtful Packaging: Space Where It Matters

Step inside, and the EV2 surprises you with an interior that feels bigger than its exterior suggests. The dashboard is minimalist, dominated by a 10.25‑inch infotainment screen that folds into the center console when you need a larger surface. Seats are upholstered in eco‑leather, and the rear seat folds flat to create a 410‑liter cargo area – impressive for a sub‑compact SUV.

Key Interior Features

• 10.25‑inch touchscreen with Kia Connect integration.
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Ambient lighting with three selectable colors.
• Heat‑adjustable front seats (optional).

Performance and Powertrain: Electric Efficiency at Its Core

The EV2 is powered by a single‑speed permanent‑magnet motor delivering 150 kW (about 201 hp) and 310 Nm of torque. While Kia’s turbo‑petrol heritage isn’t directly relevant here, the instant torque of the electric motor gives the EV2 a lively feel in city traffic.

Charging is straightforward: a 7.2 kW AC onboard charger handles home charging in about 8 hours, while a 100 kW DC fast charger can refill from 10% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes. Kia also offers a free 3‑year subscription to public charging networks in several European markets.

Safety and Driver Assistance: ADAS Comes Standard

Kia’s Advanced Driver‑Assistance Systems (ADAS) are a highlight. Even the base trim includes forward‑collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane‑keeping assist, and blind‑spot monitoring. Higher trims add adaptive cruise control and a 360‑degree surround‑view camera.

Feature Comparison with Competitors

Pricing: Under €30,000 and Still Loaded

The EV2’s starting price of less than €30,000 makes it one of the most competitively priced electric SUVs in Europe. Kia’s approach is simple: keep the price low while offering a respectable list of standard equipment.

Price Comparison Across the Segment

For those who love a good deal, Kia also bundles a 5‑year/100,000‑km warranty, which adds peace of mind and further justifies the low price point.

Real‑World Verdict: Is the EV2 Right for You?

After spending a weekend with the EV2 – commuting through the narrow streets of Copenhagen and tackling a short highway stretch – a few observations stand out:

1. Design love‑or‑hate factor: The bold styling may not suit traditionalists, but it certainly turns heads.
2. Packaging win: The cargo space rivals larger SUVs, making it practical for families.
3. Range confidence: 278 miles comfortably covers most European daily drives, even in colder climates.
4. Value proposition: Under €30,000, it undercuts many rivals while delivering a richer feature set.

If you prioritize a quirky look, solid range, and a price that won’t break the bank, the Kia EV2 deserves a test drive.

Conclusion: A Small SUV That Packs a Big Punch

The Kia EV2 proves that you don’t need a massive footprint to create an exciting electric vehicle. Its wonderfully strange design is more than a visual gimmick; it supports a spacious, tech‑rich interior that feels premium for the price. Combined with a respectable 278‑mile range, robust ADAS, and a sub‑€30,000 entry price, the EV2 is set to become a strong contender in the European EV market. For anyone looking to dip their toes into electric mobility without sacrificing style or practicality, the EV2 might just be the perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the official WLTP range of the Kia EV2?

The EV2 offers up to 278 miles on a single charge under the WLTP testing cycle.

2. How long does it take to charge the EV2 at home?

Using a 7.2 kW AC charger, a full charge takes roughly 8 hours. A 100 kW DC fast charger can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

3. Is the EV2 eligible for government EV incentives?

Yes, most EU countries offer purchase subsidies or tax benefits for vehicles under €30,000 with a range above 200 miles.

4. Does the EV2 include ADAS as standard?

All trims come with forward‑collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane‑keeping assist, and blind‑spot monitoring.

5. How does the cargo capacity compare to other sub‑compact SUVs?

With 410 liters of space (rear seats up), the EV2 outpaces many rivals, offering more room than the Renault Zoe and VW ID.3.

6. Are there any turbo‑petrol engine options?

No. The EV2 is an all‑electric model; Kia’s turbo‑petrol engines are reserved for internal‑combustion variants of other models.

7. What warranty does Kia provide?

Kia offers a 5‑year/100,000‑km warranty plus a 7‑year battery warranty for the EV2.

8. Can I use the EV2 for long road trips?

Absolutely. With a 278‑mile range and access to fast‑charging networks, you can comfortably cover most European road trips with a few quick stops.

9. Is there a premium interior package?

Yes, a premium trim adds leather‑like upholstery, a panoramic roof, and heated front seats.

10. Where can I find more official information?

Visit the official Kia Europe site at https://www.kia.com/eu for detailed specifications and local pricing.