Kia has confirmed UK pricing, specifications and on-sale details for its smallest and most affordable electric vehicle to date, the EV2, as the manufacturer simultaneously broadens eligibility for the Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) across its wider EV portfolio.
The new B-segment electric SUV arrives at a critical moment for the European market, where demand for compact, affordable EVs continues to accelerate. With a starting price of £24,245 on-the-road, the EV2 undercuts much of the competition while promising a claimed range of up to 281 miles (WLTP, pending), positioning it as one of the longest-range EVs available below the £25,000 threshold.
Entry point EV targets mass adoption
The EV2 represents a strategic expansion of Kia’s electric line-up, joining established models such as the EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6 and EV9. Designed, engineered and built in Europe specifically for European customers, the model is aimed squarely at urban buyers and households seeking an accessible transition into electric motoring.
Available exclusively as a five-seater, the EV2 sits in the highly competitive B-SUV segment, where it will rival both electric and combustion-powered alternatives. Kia is offering two battery options from launch: a 42.2kWh standard-range pack and a larger 61.0kWh long-range unit.
The entry-level ‘Air’ variant, paired with the long-range battery, is expected to be the volume seller. It combines the lowest entry price with the highest range, reflecting a deliberate focus on value-led electrification.
Pricing strategy aligned with grant uncertainty
Kia has also introduced a temporary “Reservation Saving” scheme to offset uncertainty around the EV2’s eligibility for the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant. While confirmation is pending, the brand is offering equivalent discounts of up to £3,750 on selected trims, effectively mirroring the potential grant value.
Under this structure, the EV2 line-up is priced as follows (including reservation savings):
- EV2 ‘Air’ (61.0kWh): £24,245
- EV2 ‘First Edition’ (42.2kWh): £26,995
- EV2 ‘GT-Line’ (61.0kWh): £28,995
- EV2 ‘GT-Line S’ (61.0kWh): £32,595
This approach ensures price competitiveness regardless of government policy outcomes, while signalling Kia’s intent to maintain strong momentum in the entry-level EV space.
Performance, range and charging
All EV2 variants are front-wheel drive, powered by a single electric motor producing either 144bhp (standard-range) or 133bhp (long-range). Acceleration from 0–62mph ranges between 8.7 and 9.5 seconds depending on configuration, with torque fixed at 250Nm across the line-up.
Charging performance is competitive for the segment. Using 400V architecture, the EV2 can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 29 minutes on a 150kW DC fast charger. AC charging at 11kW enables a full charge in just over five hours for the smaller battery, or just over seven hours for the larger unit.
Efficiency has also been prioritised through aerodynamic optimisation. Features such as active air flaps, flush door handles and underbody shielding contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.29Cd—an impressive figure for a compact SUV.
Compact size, practical packaging
Despite its position as Kia’s smallest EV, the EV2 has been engineered to maximise interior space. A 2,565mm wheelbase and flat floor enable generous legroom for both front and rear occupants, while boot capacity stands at 362 litres, expanding to 1,201 litres with the rear seats folded.
Higher trims also gain a 15-litre front storage compartment, providing additional practicality for charging cables and smaller items.
Dimensionally, the EV2 is wider and taller than the Kia Stonic, though slightly shorter overall—reinforcing its focus on urban usability without sacrificing interior volume.
Technology and connected features
Kia has equipped the EV2 with a comprehensive suite of digital and connectivity features, even at entry level. A triple-screen layout combines dual 12.3-inch displays with a dedicated 5.3-inch climate control touchscreen, supported by physical controls for ease of use.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, alongside Kia’s latest connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system. Notably, the EV2 also introduces Kia’s AI Personal Assistant—an advanced voice interface capable of natural language interaction, travel planning and infotainment control.
The assistant, initially offered free for 12 months, reflects a broader industry trend towards integrating generative AI into the driving experience.
Additional features include Plug & Charge functionality for seamless public charging, and Kia CarPay for in-car parking payments. Over-the-air updates will enable continuous software enhancements throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.
Trim hierarchy and equipment
The EV2 follows Kia’s established trim structure, with increasing levels of equipment and visual differentiation:
- ‘Air’: Focused on value, with 16-inch alloys, heated seats and a comprehensive safety suite.
- ‘First Edition’: Launch model with upgraded audio, ambient lighting, and enhanced driver assistance features.
- ‘GT-Line’: Adds sportier styling, larger wheels and premium interior finishes.
- ‘GT-Line S’: Flagship variant with features such as ventilated seats, a sunroof, Vehicle-to-Load capability and a 360-degree camera system.
This tiered approach allows Kia to target a broad customer base, from cost-conscious buyers to those seeking premium features in a compact EV.
Wider EV strategy and grant expansion
The EV2 launch coincides with Kia’s announcement that more of its models now qualify for the UK’s Electric Car Grant, which provides £1,500 off eligible vehicles.
The EV3 is now included for the first time, with both ‘Air’ and ‘GT-Line’ trims benefiting from the incentive. Prices now start from £31,555 for the standard-range version once the grant is applied.
Kia has also introduced a new EV4 ‘Motion’ grade, positioned between existing trims and similarly eligible for the grant. Priced from £38,995 including the subsidy, the model adds features such as a premium audio system, surround-view monitor and upgraded interior materials.
Alongside the EV4 and PV5 Passenger, these additions bring Kia’s total number of grant-eligible models to three, broadening access for both retail and fleet customers.
The EV2 is expected to qualify for the grant in due course, potentially strengthening its already aggressive pricing position.
Market context and outlook
Kia’s expansion of its EV range reflects a broader push towards electrification, with the company targeting 15 EV models globally by 2030 and full renewable energy use across manufacturing by 2040.
The EV2, in particular, addresses one of the key barriers to EV adoption: affordability. By combining a sub-£25,000 entry price with competitive range and high levels of standard equipment, it aims to attract buyers who may previously have considered petrol or hybrid alternatives.
The timing is significant. As government incentives evolve and competition intensifies in the compact EV segment, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to deliver compelling value propositions without compromising on technology or usability.
First deliveries later in 2026
Reservations for the EV2 are now open, with first UK deliveries scheduled for later in 2026. Ahead of launch, Kia will host nationwide “First Drive Weekend” events across its dealer network, offering prospective customers the opportunity to experience the car firsthand.
With strong pricing, a broad specification and alignment with evolving government incentives, the EV2 is poised to become a key pillar of Kia’s UK electric strategy—and a potentially disruptive entrant in the affordable EV market.
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