Kia Australia will expand its EV3 lineup in September, confirming the arrival of the GT-Line AWD. It introduces dual-motor all-wheel drive power to the small electric SUV for the first time.
The new flagship completes the local EV3 range and follows strong demand for the model, which recorded its best monthly sales result in June with 821 deliveries.
In terms of hardware, the EV3 GT-Line uses front and rear electric motors that combine to produce a healthy 195kW and 385Nm, which is enough to see the 0-100km/h sprint done and dusted in 6.6 seconds. Yes, there are quicker EVs out there, but this sort of time puts it in line with a number of iconic and fun hot hatches.
Despite the extra performance, the new variant also boasts a respectable range of 559km on the WLTP cycle, representing only a modest reduction compared with the front-wheel drive versions.
The performance gains are supported by larger brakes, which is great to see (so many high-powered EVs, especially from Chinese brands, are under-braked in our view), along with revised suspension and steering tuned right here on Australian roads.
Key feature highlights specific to the GT-Line include unique 19-inch alloy wheels, gloss black exterior trimmings, satin silver front and rear bumper bar inserts, alloy pedals for the driver, a three-spoke sports steering wheel, and two-tone faux leather seats.
Other standard equipment, some of which is shared with lesser variants, includes head-up display, twin 12.3-inch screens across the dash and a 5.0-inch ‘bridging’ section for climate controls, and eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a wireless phone charger with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The EV3 GT-Line AWD is due to arrive in Kia dealerships from September, with prices starting from $66,490 (excluding on-road costs). That’s up from $63,950 for the existing FWD GT-Line.
