New Kia Seltos Hybrid: Pricing and specs for Ireland
The new Kia Seltos is officially coming to Ireland, and we now have full details on Irish pricing, specifications and the hybrid powertrain.
Kia Ireland has confirmed that the second-generation Seltos will arrive in Irish dealerships in December, ahead of the 271 registration plate. It will be available exclusively as a 1.6-litre full hybrid, with four trim levels and a starting price of €39,500.
The Seltos is Kia's second best-selling model globally, and its arrival gives the brand another option in Ireland's highly competitive compact SUV market, sitting below the larger Sportage.
Kia dealers around Ireland have already received Seltos display models, giving prospective buyers an opportunity to see the new SUV ahead of the hybrid's arrival later this year.
Kia Seltos Price & Trims for Ireland
Seltos is available in four trims: K2, K3, GT Line and GT Line Plus.
The K2 model starts from €39,500. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, dual panoramic displays, smart cruise control, heated front seats/heated steering wheel, reversing camera and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
The K3 is available from €42,500. It adds features like 18-inch alloys, synthetic leather seats, ambient lighting, privacy glass and wireless phone charging.
The GT-Line is available from €45,000. It adds sportier interior and exterior GT-Line styling, as well as 360-degree surround-view camera, blind spot monitor, powered tailgate and remote park assist.
The range-topping GT-Line Plus comes in at €48,000 and adds a sunroof, premium relaxation seat for the driver, Harmon Kardon sound system, ventilated front seats, head-up display and a Vehicle-to-Load feature to power other devices from the hybrid battery.
Is the Kia Seltos bigger than the Sportage?
The Seltos sits in the compact SUV segment, similar in positioning to the Kia Sportage, but slightly smaller. It measures around 4.4 metres in length. However, it still offers seating for five and a generous 536-litre boot, making it useful for family life, while the rear seats can be folded to increase capacity.
The new Seltos also gets a powered tailgate on higher-specification versions..
What engine options will the Kia Seltos have?
In some markets the Seltos is available with a petrol engine but in Ireland we will be getting the new 1.6-litre hybrid exclusively. It has 154hp, 0-100km/h in 10.4 seconds and a towing capacity of up to 910kg.
When is the Kia Seltos coming to Ireland?
The first Kia Seltos models will arrive in Ireland in December 2026, ahead of the 271 registration period.
Kia dealerships have already received display vehicles. However, because of staggered drivetrain production, these initial display cars are 1.6-litre manual petrol models, while the Irish customer launch will be based around the 1.6-litre HEV.
This means Irish buyers can get an early look at the new Seltos in dealerships before the hybrid versions arrive.
Kia Seltos: what does it compete with?
The Seltos enters one of the most competitive parts of the Irish new car market. It will rival other SUVs like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Dacia Bigster and the Renault Symbioz. It’s aimed at buyers who want SUV style, practicality and space combined with the efficiency of a hybrid.
For Kia, the Seltos fills an interesting gap in the range. The smaller crossover market is covered by models such as the Stonic, while the Sportage is a larger family SUV and one of Ireland's bestselling cars. The Seltos sits between the two, offering a more compact alternative to the Sportage while retaining five seats and a practical boot.
Kia Ireland's decision to offer the Seltos exclusively as a hybrid also gives it a clear position within the company's increasingly electrified Irish line-up, while still offering buyers an alternative to going fully electric.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia EV2 Review | Small electric SUV with big range!
Kia EV2 Review: A Small Electric SUV with Big Range
The Kia EV2 is one of the most anticipated new electric cars to arrive in Ireland this year. Small, relatively affordable and with an impressive range for its size, it arrives in a part of the market that is becoming increasingly competitive.
I first drove the EV2 at its European press launch in Lisbon, before it arrived in Ireland. Now that I've had the opportunity to drive an Irish-specification car on Irish roads, I can tell you if it's one of the small electric SUVs I'd recommend buying.
The EV2 sits below the popular Kia EV3 in the range and takes plenty of inspiration from its larger sibling, but packages that chunky SUV design into a smaller and, in my view, more playful shape. Its rivals include the Renault 4, Ford Puma Gen-E, Jeep Avenger and soon-to-arrive Skoda Epiq.
There are two battery options, with the larger 61kWh battery offering up to 453 kilometres of WLTP range. That is a very impressive figure for a car of this size.
So, is the Kia EV2 the small electric SUV to buy?
Kia EV2: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Range
- Comfort
- Rear-seat space
- Standard equipment
Cons
- Boot isn't class-leading
- Interior hard grey plastics
- Not the most exciting car to drive
Kia EV2 price and range in Ireland
One of the biggest attractions of the EV2 is the choice of two battery sizes. The 42kWh standard-range model has a WLTP range of up to 317km and starts from €28,660. The 61kWh long-range model increases the range to up to 453km and starts from €31,940.
There are Air, Earth, GT Line and GT Line Plus trim levels for Ireland, depending on the battery chosen.
The car I've now tested on Irish roads is the 61kWh Earth, priced at €33,810. This is also proving to be one of the most popular versions with Irish buyers, according to Kia Ireland. For me, this is the sweet spot in the range. You get the larger battery and its impressive range without having to move all the way up to the more expensive GT Line versions. It also has a generous level of standard equipment.
Kia EV2 design
The EV2 is definitely one of my favourite electric Kias to date. It slots into the range below the EV3, and you can clearly see the influence of that larger car in the chunky SUV styling. But I actually prefer the EV2's smaller proportions and there is a more playful edge to its design inside and out.
There are distinctive lights front and rear, plenty of cladding and a strong shoulder line that gives the car a more substantial appearance than its dimensions might suggest.
18-inch alloy wheels are standard on Earth trim. Air versions get 16-inch, while the sportier GT Line versions go for 19-inch alloys.
Kia EV2 interior
Inside the EV2 borrows a lot of technology and design from Kia's larger models. There's a full digital driver's display and a large central touchscreen, with modern graphics and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Battery preconditioning is another welcome feature, as it can make charging stops quicker.
There are still plenty of physical buttons and controls for things like adjusting the climate control, which makes it easy to interact with and not as frustrating as some models that rely on touchscreens alone.
Kia is also showing its fun side with the new EV2 with lime green accents in the seats and centre console, while there are little messages behind the door handles, 'have a nice day'.
The seats are finished in a combination of grey cloth and synthetic leather, which softens the overall look. There is quite a lot of grey plastic around the cabin, and the EV2 doesn't feel quite as chic or upmarket as the Renault 4. But at this price point, I don't think that's a major criticism. The EV2 gives you a lot of useful technology and equipment for the money.
Standard equipment includes heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control. Move up to Earth trim and you also get features such as ambient lighting and wireless smartphone charging.
Kia EV2 practicality
The EV2 is available in both four- and five-seat configurations in some markets, but in Ireland we get the five-seat version with a conventional rear bench and three seatbelts, which is the most sensible configuration for Irish buyers. The flat floor helps make the rear cabin feel less cramped and I think rear seat space is one of the EV2's strengths. It feels quite spacious for a car of this size, compared to a Renault 4 or Jeep Avenger for instance.
There are Isofix points on the two outer seats as well as USB-C ports and air vents.
The EV2's 362 litre boot is smaller in volume than the likes of a Renault 4 or Ford Puma Gen E but it's still practical with useful depth, underfloor storage and another handy storage tray under the bonnet.
What's it like driving the Kia EV2 on Irish roads?
The EV2 has been developed specifically for Europe and tuned for European roads, and that comes through in the way it drives. It's smooth, predictable and easy to drive, with light but precise steering and a comfortable ride. It's easy around town, but it doesn't feel out of its depth once you leave the city thanks to good levels of comfort, refinement but also range, particularly the big battery version.
The 61kWh has 135hp and 0-100km/h is 9.5 seconds but there is plenty of power for everyday driving and also joining motorways. There are also drive modes (normal, eco, sport and snow), while paddles behind the steering wheel allow you to adjust the strength of the regenerative braking. Sport mode gives the car a little more urgency, but the EV2 still prioritises comfort over sportiness, and something like a Ford Puma Gen-E or Renault 4 are arguably more fun to drive.
But the EV2 is the better all-rounder when you take into consideration comfort and the versatility of the range it offers. With up to 453km of WLTP range, the long-range model currently has an advantage over several of its closest rivals. It's also efficient in real world driving, with my average around 13kWh/100km during my summer test.
Kia EV2 charging
DC fast charging is competitive for a small electric SUV with 10-80% in about 30 minutes. 11kW AC is included as standard.
Long-range versions from Earth trim upwards also get vehicle-to-load capability, allowing you to use the car's battery to power external electrical equipment.
Vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid capability are also part of the EV2's technology offering, depending on specification and market availability.
Kia EV2: Verdict
The Kia EV2 may not have the most stylish interior or be the most fun to drive of its rivals, but it gets the important things right: excellent range, comfort, practicality, technology and generous standard equipment making it good value for money overall and a reliable choice.
The 61kWh Earth looks like the sweet spot for Irish buyers, offering up to 453km of range for €33,810. It’s a strong all-rounder and a sound buy if you're in the market for a small electric SUV.
Kia EV2 Video Reviews
Kia EV2 Irish Road Test: Is This the Small Electric SUV to Buy?
I’ve now driven the Kia EV2 on Irish roads to see how it performs as an electric SUV. In this video, I take a closer look at the Irish-spec 61kWh Earth, including its range, practicality, interior, equipment and how it drives.
Kia EV2 First Drive: My First Impressions from Lisbon
Before the Kia EV2 arrived in Ireland, I travelled to Lisbon for the European press launch to get my first drive of Kia’s new small electric SUV. In this video, I take a first look at the EV2’s design, interior, practicality, performance and driving experience, and compare it with some of its key rivals.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia K4 Review | One of the Best Value Hatchbacks in Ireland?
In this Kia K4 review, Caroline tests Kia's new hatchback for Ireland to see if delivers enough comfort, practicality and efficiency to challenge the Toyota Corolla, Peugeot 308 and Volkswagen Golf.
Kia K4 Review Overview
The Kia K4 is the Korean car brand's stylish new replacement for the Ceed, bringing modern design, strong equipment levels and impressive fuel economy to the family hatchback market. Spacious in the rear and packed with user-friendly features, it's for Irish car buyers that are perhaps not ready to go full electric and are looking for an affordable petrol hatchback. Prices start from €31,500. While the 1.0-litre mild hybrid petrol engine is efficient and smooth enough for daily driving, refinement could be better, with noticeable road noise and a firmer ride than some key rivals.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Kia K4's strengths and weaknesses.
Pros
- Efficient petrol engine
- Generous legroom
- Strong standard equipment
- Competitively priced
Cons
- Average boot size
- Road noise
- Firm ride
Key facts
Model tested: Kia K4 GT Line
Price: €38,500
Engine: 1.0-litre, three cylinder mild hybrid petrol engine
Power: 115hp
Fuel economy: 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres
Motor tax: €210
Which Kia K4 trim should you buy?
Kia's stylish new K4 hatchback is available in Ireland in three trim levels, which differ in spec and appearance. The K4 replaces the Ceed hatchback with a clean, modern design full of interesting features like hidden rear door handles and striking LED headlights as standard across the range so it sits neatly next to models such as the Stonic and Sportage.
The entry into the range is the K2, which arrives on 16-inch alloy wheels. Inside it features Kia’s 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a full digital driver display. It's anything but basic with dual-zone climate control, reversing camera, parking sensors and heated steering wheel/heated front seats all included.
The K3 feels like the sweet spot of the range thanks to its combination of price and equipment. It adds a little more visual appeal with 17-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, Kia's classic cube-projection LED headlights, as well as black and chrome detailing. Inside there are more desirable synthetic leather seats, power adjustment and lumbar support for the driver's seat and wireless smartphone charging.
The GT Line also makes its way into the K4 line-up with a full complement of equipment and an automatic gearbox as standard. It adds a digital key, driver's memory seat as well as a sunroof and special GT Line exterior and interior styling. It also has ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. All for €38,500.
What's it like to drive in Ireland?
The market for compact hatchbacks like the K4 has shrunk in Ireland over the years, while desire for diesel has also declined. Kia Ireland is keeping the K4 range simple with a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine and six-speed manual or seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. It has just 115hp, which feels like very little in the age of electric hatchbacks, with 0-100km/h in 12.3 seconds (GT Line). But in real world driving, it feels swifter than what the numbers might suggest. The mild hybrid assistance smooths out the power delivery and makes it feel more robust, while also boosting efficiency.
I tested the 1.0 automatic version, which does feature some lag when taking off from low speeds or looking for a quick burst of acceleration to overtake on a motorway. Buyers may still prefer the more tactile quality of the manual, though the automatic makes driving in traffic a breeze - which let's be fair is quite a feature of Irish life these days! The engine also has a habit of vibrating through the pedals when idling, which is common with three-cylinder, petrol-engined cars.
That's why the arrival of a full hybrid before the end of the year might be good news for buyers seeking more power and efficiency from their K4. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid engine to rival the mighty Toyota Corolla Hybrid and will have 154hp.
Kia fine-tuned the K4's chassis for European roads and for the most part it handles with confidence. Being lower to the ground than an SUV, it naturally feels more driver-focused. However it lacks the polish of rivals like the Peugeot 308 and Opel Astra when it comes to handling, while comfort and refinement feel off the class best too. The 17-inch alloy wheels are a modest size but there is a lot of road noise and the ride is not entirely smooth over Irish tarmac. It's not unbearable, but long-distance drivers may seek something more refined like the Volkswagen Golf or Peugeot 308.
What is the real-world fuel economy of the Kia K4?
The Kia K4 returns good fuel economy for its size. My average fuel consumption over a week of driving was 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres.
Kia K4 Interior & Practicality
Inside the K4 borrows much of the design and tech that has become a familiar sight in Kia's latest cars and SUVs. It feels well-screwed together with good quality materials giving a solid finish. The GT Line has an attractive black and cream colour scheme, and sporty three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters.
The digital driver display and touchscreen work seamlessly, with no glitches or gremlins. It pairs seamlessly to smartphones with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia has also included proper buttons for the climate settings, which are quick and intuitive to use.
Rear legroom is a real strong point for the K4, while headroom is good too. There are also comfort features for rear seat passengers like vents, USB-C ports and even heated seats on the GT Line.
Boot space is less impressive at just 328 litres to accommodate the hybrid battery. That compares less favourably with rivals like the Astra (422 litres), 308 (412 litres), Corolla (361 litres) and Golf (380 litres). But in reality it's well designed and not too shallow for carrying larger items. The rear seats can also split fold.
How many Isofix points does it have?
Two. They are positioned on the two outer rear seats.
Kia K4 Pricing for Ireland
- Kia K4 (K2): €31,500
- Kia K4 (K2): €34,000
- Kia K4 (GT Line): €38,500
Verdict: Kia K4
It's good to see Kia still investing in a simple petrol hatchback in its growing range of hybrids and popular electric vehicles. The Kia K4 is attractively priced in today's market with the K3 being a particular sweet spot for its equipment and sticker price of €34,000.
The Kia K4 is undoubtedly stylish and delivers impressive fuel economy and generous rear passenger space for hatchback buyers. Kia’s modern interior technology keeps it competitive against established rivals and quality is very good inside.
However, refinement is not quite class-leading, with noticeable road noise and a firmer ride than some competitors.
Even so, the K4 remains a practical, well-equipped and good-value alternative to cars like the Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf and Peugeot 308.
Kia K4 Video Review
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia K4 hatchback arrives in Ireland
Kia Ireland has launched the all-new Kia K4 to the Irish market.
The new compact hatchback replaces the Ceed in the Korean brand's line-up of cars and SUVs, and goes on sale priced from €31,500 rising to €38,500 for a top of the range GT Line.
Power comes from a 1.0-litre turbo petrol mild hybrid engine with 115hp and the choice of 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic gearbox.
A more powerful 1.6-litre petrol hybrid will arrive before the end of the year with 154hp.
The K4 offers seating for five and generous interior space for a compact hatchback. There's 328 litres of boot space, allowing for the mild hybrid battery under the boot floor.
Kia K4 trim levels for Ireland
The K2 entry model starts from €31,500 and comes with Kia’s triple panoramic display comprising of a crisp 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 5.3-inch climate control panel and 12-inch digital driver display.
Other standard features include LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, heated steering wheel and heated front seats.
The mid-level K3 (€34,000) enhances the specification with 17-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather seats, black/chrome exterior detailing, cube projection LED headlights, power adjustment and lumbar support for the driver's seat, wireless smartphone charging and rear privacy glass.
The range-topping GT-Line is available from €38,500 and comes with a digital key, memory feature for the driver's seat, sunroof, ventilated front sears and heated rear seats.
It also gets sportier GT-Line exterior and interior styling, as well as lots of advanced safety features.
Kia continues to grow in 2026
Kia has had a strong start to 2026, maintaining its position as one of the most popular car brands in Ireland. The brand's growth has been driven by its EV range but also the bestselling Sportage.
A facelifted version of the Kia Stonic crossover has also just gone on sale, offering buyers a petrol offering in the popular B-segment. It's available now priced from €27,500.
Kia Ireland is in the middle of a product offensive with more to come - the Kia EV2 electric crossover this April and the Kia Seltos compact SUV in the summer.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia EV5 Review | Family-Friendly Electric SUV
Read Caroline's Kia EV5 review for everything you need to know about buying Kia's electric family SUV in Ireland.
Kia is one of Ireland's bestselling EV brands, with both the EV3 and the EV6 being some of the country's most popular electric cars.
Now Kia has expanded its range of EVs even further with the arrival of the new Kia EV5. The new five-seat SUV occupies a handy middle ground between the EV3 and the seven-seat EV9 in Kia's electric SUV line-up.
Kia EV5 Design
The Kia EV5 enters a busy part of the market with well-established rivals like the Skoda Enyaq, Volkswagen ID.4 and the Tesla Model Y. But its chunky, bold styling certainly gives it an edge. It features the brand’s signature thin LED lighting, while GT Line models have sportier details such as gloss black exterior trim and larger alloy wheels.
There are three trim lines for Ireland: Earth 2, Earth 3 and GT Line. Earth 2 versions sit on 18-inch alloy wheels but everything else gets 19s.
Is the Kia EV5 bigger than the Sportage?
While similarities are likely to be drawn with Kia’s bestselling Sportage, the new EV5 is bigger and boxier overall.
Kia EV5 Interior
Inside the EV5 feels like a scaled down EV9. You sit high in the driver’s seat like a traditional SUV and the minimalist design makes it feel very airy and spacious.
It also gets the brand’s familiar three-screen layout consisting of a digital driver display, climate control panel and touchscreen. The touchscreen comes with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and is easy to use thanks to shortcut buttons and physical switches for some of the climate settings.
It all feels very solidly built, but there is quite a lot of dull grey plastic so it doesn’t feel quite as upmarket as a Skoda Enyaq for instance. But there are lots of little cubbies and places to put things, ideal for a family car.
It’s also well-equipped with even heated front and rear seats included as standard, and a heated steering wheel.
GT Line models come with a special three-spoke steering wheel, head-up display, opening panoramic sunroof and full relaxation seats for the driver and passenger.
Kia EV5 Practicality
The EV5 really excels on passenger space. There’s loads of legroom and headroom in the second row, with plenty of family-friendly features like two Isofix points, separate vents, climate control, USB-C ports and even a pull-out drawer in the centre piece.
The boot is another high point, with its large, square design, two-position boot floor and even a three-pin socket. A powered tailgate is also standard across the range. Kia has even squeezed in a storage compartment under the bonnet for the charging cables.
What is the range of the Kia EV5?
There’s one battery available with an 81.4kWh capacity (78kWh usable). All trim lines come with a heat pump. The Earth 2 is the most efficient, offering up to 530km range (WLTP). The GT Line we tested offers less (up to 505km) because of the different alloy wheel size and design.
During my cold weather test, average consumption sat around 22kWh per 100 kilometres, which translates to roughly 350km on a single charge. These figures are likely to improve in warmer weather, but rivals like the Skoda Enyaq 85 (573km WLTP) and Tesla Model Y long range, rear wheel drive (622km WLTP) will likely get you further on a single charge.
Driving the Kia EV5
On the road the Kia EV5 is very smooth and comfortable to drive. There’s 217hp through the front wheels, with 0-100km/h completed in 8.4 seconds. The handling is solid and predictable without being exciting in any way. But as a family SUV, you just can’t argue with how this drives because the comfort and refinement are so good. There are a few drive modes you can alter from a button on the steering wheel and paddles for the regenerative braking, including a full one-pedal drive mode.
Kia EV5 Charging
The EV5 doesn’t get the EV9’s ultra-rapid, 800-volt charging but it can still manage up to 150kW DC for a 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes. 11kW AC is included as well as vehicle-to-load, vehicle-to-grid and vehicle-to-home charging on all but the base model.
Kia EV5 Price
The EV5 starts from €47,625 for the Earth 2, from €49,800 for the Earth 3 and from €54,000 for the GT Line.
Verdict
The new EV5 excels as a family SUV for the comfort, space and equipment levels it offers. While some rivals will get you further on a single battery charge and feel a bit posher inside, the EV5’s bold styling and family-friendly design make it impossible to ignore.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia PV5 electric van arrives in Ireland
Kia has officially entered the light commercial vehicle market with the launch of the all-new PV5, the brand's first fully electric van, available in both cargo and passenger versions.
Positioned as a rival to the likes of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz, Mercedes-Benz eVito and the Ford e-Transit Custom, the PV5 has already secured the title of International Van of the Year.
The PV5 will be offered in multiple configurations, including Cargo, Passenger, Crew Van and Chassis Cab, giving it broad appeal for both commercial operators and private buyers seeking a spacious vehicle.
All versions are powered by a 71.2kWh battery, delivering up to 416km of range in the Cargo version and 412km in the Passenger.
Fast charging allows the battery to be replenished in as little as 30 minutes, while 11kW AC is included as standard, as is a heat pump. Vehicle to load, vehicle to grid and vehicle to home charging is also possible with an adaptor for the charge port.
The new Kia PV5 Cargo is offered as a two-seat commercial priced from €33,230 plus VAT for the K2 trim and €35,100 for the K4. There are two roof heights possible, with excellent cargo space of 4.4 metres and a 690kg payload capacity.
Standard features include 16-inch steel wheels, manual sliding doors on both sides, heated front seats, heated steering wheel and wireless smartphone charging.
The K4 model adds premium touches such as a 360-degree camera system and artificial leather/fabric upholstery.
The PV5 Passenger version offers a slightly reduced range of 412km, but places greater emphasis on comfort and versatility with a low step in height and five or seven seat versions, the latter from summer 2026. It's available now from €42,550.
There's also synthetic leather upholstery, heated front/rear seats, power-adjustable front seats with ventilation and a powered tailgate.
Practical touches include storage under the front seats and Isofix points on the outer rear seats.
While electric currently accounts for just 4.5% of new van registrations, the segment is steadily growing as businesses look to reduce running costs and emissions. Kia is aiming to capitalise on this shift with a competitively priced, well-equipped offering.
The Kia commercial vehicle range is likely to expand with the arrival of a PV7 and PV9 at a later date.
Kia EV5 arrives in Ireland
The Kia EV5 has officially gone on sale in Ireland, with pricing starting from €47,265.
Kia's new family electric SUV sits alongside the bestselling Kia Sportage, offering generous space for five people and a 566 litre boot.
There's one 81.4kWh battery on offer with up to 530km of range possible (WLTP). Fast charging speeds are capable of replenishing the battery in as little as 30 minutes. A heat pump is also standard across the range, enhancing efficiency in cold weather.
The EV5 will be offered in Earth 2, Earth 3 and GT-Line trims, with prices starting from €47,625, rising to €54,000 for the GT-Line.
Equipment highlights include wraparound ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging, heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, and a powered tailgate.
The new EV5 is aimed at the largest and most competitive market segment in Ireland and will go up against the likes of the Skoda Enyaq, Volkswagen ID.4, Tesla Model Y and Toyota BZ. With compact SUVs already accounting for almost 30% of new car sales, the EV5 arrives as a crucial new model for a brand already enjoying strong momentum, particularly among electric cars.
Kia currently sits fifth overall in the Irish market, with 10,004 registrations so far this year and 7.9% market share, helped by the enduring popularity of the Sportage and bestselling EVs like the EV3 and EV6.
Ronan Flood, Managing Director at Kia Ireland, said:
“The medium SUV category, or C- SUV, is the most popular vehicle segment in Ireland and accounts for 30% of all new car sales. Before today, Sportage was our only C-SUV and accounted for 35% of all new Kia sales this year. In addition, Kia EV sales are up 87% versus last year so there is no denying the opportunity that exists for an electric C-SUV. With its bold SUV design, comfort features and performance that Irish drivers expect, EV5 gives us an electric alternative to our best-selling vehicle category for the months and years ahead.”
Kia EV4 Review | Kia's new electric hatchback
Read Caroline's Kia EV4 review for everything you need to know about buying Kia's new electric car in Ireland.
Kia has been going from strength to strength in the Irish market with family favourites like the Sportage and Sorento selling well, along with the all-electric Kia EV3 and EV6.
Both of the latter feature among Ireland's top five bestselling EVs. Kia is also the 2nd bestselling electric vehicle brand. That success didn’t happen overnight and is the result of years of steady progress, from early EV models like the Soul and Niro, to the acclaimed EV6 and EV3 crossovers.
In fact, Kia now sells more electric cars than petrol, diesel or hybrid models. The latest to arrive is the new Kia EV4, an electric hatchback retailing from €39,940.
Kia EV4 Design
The new EV4 brings something fresh to the brand’s EV line-up. While the EV3 and EV6 are both crossovers, the EV4 takes the form of an electric hatchback. It's a sleek and sporty alternative to an SUV that broadens Kia’s electric appeal and rivals the likes of the Volkswagen ID.3 and Renault Megane E-Tech with considerable style.
Visually, it carries a mini EV6 vibe, complete with Kia’s striking 'Star Map' lighting signature and smooth surfacing that gives it plenty of presence. The Wolf Grey paint option looks particularly smart.
17-inch alloy wheels come as standard on the entry level Earth 2 and everything else (Earth 3 and GT Line) get 19-inch. The GT Line also adds gloss black trim to the exterior for even more style.
The EV4 is also offered as a fastback with a saloon-like boot, but the hatchback is arguably the nicer option.
Kia EV4 Interior
The EV4 shares its platform, batteries and motors with the EV3, but feels a little more upmarket inside in terms of the material quality and two-tone colour schemes. Equipment levels and seat upholsteries do differ depending on trim level, with the GT Line being the most salubrious. GT Line models also come with a unique three-spoke steering wheel, as well as sunroof, ventilated front seats and fully reclining relaxation seats for both driver and passenger.
Standard features are otherwise generous, including a reversing camera, heated seats and heated steering wheel. From Earth 3 upwards you also get wireless smartphone charging.
The digital driver display blends seamlessly into the touchscreen, which is crisp and easy to use. There is a row of shortcut buttons underneath and a few real buttons for the climate control. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are also included.
There's loads of storage including two large cupholders.
Practicality
The EV4 has more rear legroom than in the EV3, and adult passengers can really stretch out. Other features include USB-C ports and an armrest.
There are Isofix points on the two outer seats.
Boot space is 435 litres in the hatchback, which is slightly smaller than the EV3’s but still larger than what you’ll find in a Volkswagen ID.3. A powered tailgate is included from Earth 3 upwards.
What is the range of the Kia EV4?
The EV4 is offered with choice of two battery options: Standard Range (58.3 kWh) with up to 440 km of range and the Long Range (81.4 kWh) offering up to 625 km.
Driving
On test was the GT Line Long Range with up to 584 km of range, 204hp and 0–100km/h in 7.7 seconds. Power goes to the front wheels, and the lower stance compared to the EV3 gives it a sportier, more connected feel on the road. Kia has also tuned it for European roads, and it shows. The EV4 feels natural and agile on the road, with nicely weighted steering.
The drive mode button on the steering wheel and paddles for the regenerative braking add to the sense of control, with one-pedal drive available too.
The EV4 is generally smooth and comfortable, though it does ride a tad firm so you feel any crevices or joints in the tarmac as you go over them. There is also some road noise at high speeds.
A heat pump is standard on long range models, helping efficiency in colder weather. During my time with the car, I averaged between 16-17kWh per 100 kilometres, which indicates a real world range in excess of 480 kilometres.
Charging the Kia EV4
Charging speeds are competitive. Using a fast DC charger, the EV4 can go from 10–80% in around 30 minutes (128 kW DC), while home or workplace AC charging can be done at 11 kW.
There’s also battery pre-conditioning, and the GT Line adds Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, with future readiness for Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) applications.
Kia EV4 Video Review
Pricing
The standard range (58.3kWh) is available from €39,940 and that’s Earth 2 only with up to 440km of range. The long range (81.4kWh) offers up to 625km and is available in Earth 2 (€43,275), Earth 3 (€46,175) and GT Line (€51,250).
Verdict
The Kia EV4 is a strong addition to Kia’s electric family: stylish, well-equipped and enjoyable to drive. It might not be cheap, but the sense of quality and completeness makes it feel worth the money.
Kia has clearly mastered the electric formula, and the EV4 shows how far the brand has come. While in time it may not match the sales volume of SUVs like the EV3 or Sportage, the EV4 could easily become a quiet favourite for those who prefer a sleeker, more driver-focused hatchback.
There’s also the upcoming K4, a petrol-powered successor to the Ceed, starting from around €31,500, but if you’re ready to go fully electric, the EV4 is a great option.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia EV3 Review | Top electric crossover
Read Caroline's Kia EV3 review for everything you need to know about buying Kia's new compact electric crossover in Ireland.
The new Kia EV3 has arrived in Ireland and is one of the most anticipated new electric models to go on sale in 2025. It's the follow-up to Kia's popular EV6 and award-winning EV9 in the brand's 'EV' range of electric vehicles.
With compact dimensions yet a wheelbase the same as the Sportage, the EV3 promises to be a stylish and practical car for Irish new car buyers. There are two battery options with the largest capable of driving up to 600 kilometres on a single battery charge.
Let's take a closer look.
Design
The EV3 is a quirkily styled compact electric crossover. It sits a little bit higher off the ground than the average hatchback and has pleasantly chunky looks. A lot has gone into the aerodynamics of this car, so there is plenty of smooth surfacing, flush door handles at the front, hidden ones at the rear, an active air flap and the roof is slightly narrower at the rear to optimise air flow over the vehicle.
At the front, it has the same LED 'star map' lighting that has become a signature for the brand. This is replicated at the rear. There are a range of colours available including Frost Blue and the GT Line exclusive Aventurine Green.
The range kicks off with the Earth 2 trim line on 17-wheels. This is the best spec to get the most range from the car. The Earth 3 and GT Line come on 19-inch wheels, which impacts efficiency somewhat. The GT Line also replaces the EV3's plain cladding for a black high gloss finish in areas like around the wheel arches.
Kia EV3 Interior
The EV3 has a modern and minimalist cabin with excellent digital tech on board. The full digital driver display blends into a small panel for climate settings and a touchscreen than controls media, maps and more. It is responsive and easy to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly. The system also includes battery conditioning to optimise battery temperature for the best charging rate. This can be activated manually or automatically when a fast charger is selected as the destination in the in-built navigation.
The minimalist design and lack of a centre console creates a lot of open space up front in the EV3. There is plenty of storage, cupholders and a small sliding table between the two front seats in the Earth 3 and GT Line versions. The cabin feels solidly built but there is quite a lot of plain grey plastic in the dashboard and doors. Higher spec models do get more fabric trim and ambient lighting to add a little more plushness. Fabric seats come as standard, while Earth 3 and GT Line models have synthetic leather seats.
Even the very entry Earth 2 model is well-equipped with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, USB ports and loads of safety equipment. The Earth 3 adds things like power adjustment for the driver’s seat, ambient lighting and the sliding table. Top of the range GT Line comes with a head-up display, sunroof, special three spoke steering wheel, heated rear seats and even a 3-pin socket underneath the rear seats!
Practicality
Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, the EV3 has a completely flat floor so all rear seat passengers have plenty of legroom. There is Isofix on the two outer seats. There is no through loading but the rear seats do split fold 60:40.
The EV3 has a generous 460-litre boot with plenty of practical features like a cover and a false floor that can be used to create a flat loading sill with space underneath to store charging cables, or dropped completely to create more depth for carrying larger items. Under the bonnet there is also a small storage compartment. GT Line models come with a powered tailgate as standard.
Battery and Range
The Kia EV3 is available with the choice of two lithium ion batteries. The standard range has 55kWh usable capacity and can travel up to 436 kilometres (WLTP) on a single battery charge. The long range battery has a 78kWh usable capacity and can travel up to 605 kilometres on a single charge or up to 585 kilometres in the GT Line model tested (WLTP).
The entry model does not come with a heat pump but it's standard on the Earth 3 and GT Line.
Over 700 kilometres of driving my average consumption was 20 kWh per 100 kilometres, which translates to real world range of 390 kilometres from the Kia EV3 long range GT Line. The test was performed over the Christmas period with a spell of mild weather followed by a cold snap with very low temperatures. Driving included urban, rural roads and high speed motorway driving.
Driving the Kia EV3
The EV3 has been tuned for European roads and comes with a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension that translates to a very orderly drive on Irish roads. Only the very rutted rural roads or manhole covers in town upset the EV3 so for an electric vehicle, it is one of the most comfortable and compliant at this end of the market. There's not too much road or wind noise, which makes for a very relaxing drive. All versions use a 204hp motor powering the front wheels, and the GT line can do the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds.
The low down weight of the battery ensures it feels solid and stable on the road at all times, while the steering gives a good connection to the road. It does feel quite heavy at times when you're braking approaching a junction or roundabout, and there is lean in corners too. There's the handy addition of driving modes including Eco, Normal, Sport, My Drive and Snow. There are paddles behind the steering wheel to adjust the strength of regenerative braking and a full one pedal driving mode that allows you to control the car using just the accelerator pedal.
Charging
The EV3 uses a 400 volt charging architecture and can charge up to 135kW DC in its long range battery form. That translates to a 10-80% battery charge in 31 minutes or 29 minutes for the standard range battery. 11kW AC charging is included. GT Line models add vehicle to load charging with an adaptor that means you can power other devices from the car.
Kia EV3 Pricing
The range kicks off at €36,790 for the Earth 2 with standard range battery or from €40,350 with the long range battery. The Earth 3 with the long range range battery only is available from €42,840 and from €47,190 for the GT Line.
Verdict
The new Kia EV3 is a timely evolution of Kia's expertise in compact electric vehicles that started with the likes of the Niro and Soul, cars that did well in the Irish market and put Kia on the map as one of the most prolific makers of electric cars.
Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, the new Kia EV3 is a very complete machine with competitive range, practical interior and plenty of style to turn heads.
While the temptation might be to make the bigger spend on the long range battery version, in its simplest form the EV3 is well-equipped and will make a good runabout for those who can charge at home. For longer trips, the long range battery offers more freedom between charges.
There's a slew of new competitors hitting the market at the moment but the EV3's combination of style, practicality, on board tech and price will keep it definitely at the races!
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Kia EV3 Video Review
Here's a look around the new Kia EV3 and a test drive on Irish roads to check out its comfort and real world efficiency.
New Kia EV3 makes its Irish debut
The Kia EV3 has arrived in Ireland, the brand's much anticipated compact electric SUV.
Built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, the new EV3 combines eye-catching design with a roomy interior and technology of larger cars.
It will be available with two different battery sizes, the largest of which can travel up to 605 kilometres on a single battery charge. Fast charging capabilities mean the EV3 can charge from 10-80% in 29-31 minutes.
Kia promises class-leading interior space. It's the widest car in its class with the same wheelbase as the brand's bestselling Sportage. There's also a generous 460 litre boot and a small storage compartment under the bonnet.
The range kicks off at €36,790 after grants for the Earth 2 58.3 kWh with up to 436 kilometres of range. With the larger battery, this model costs €40,350 and comes with standard equipment such as heated front seats and steering wheel, dual 12.3” display screens, wireless smartphone charging, LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The Earth 3 is available with the larger battery only and starts from €42,840, while the GT Line comes in at €47,190.
Kia Ireland will offer the EV3 in seven body colours including Clear white, Snow white metallic, Ivory silver, Shale grey, Frost blue, Black pearl and Aventurine green, which is exclusive to this model.
The EV3 follows in the footsteps of Kia's award-winning EV6 and EV9, the latter which was recently crowned Irish Large SUV of the Year.
Kia consistently performs well in the Irish market. It is currently the fifth bestselling brand here occupying a 7.6% share of the new car market. The brand has been selling electric vehicles since 2014 and the likes of the electric Niro and Soul have been successful in the Irish market to date.
The second half of 2025 will see the arrival of the new EV4, EV5 and a new range of electric light commercial vehicles, a first for the brand.