Kia is preparing to shake up the small EV segment with the upcoming Kia EV2, an all-new electric supermini designed specifically for the European market. Slated to make its full debut in early 2026, the EV2 will become the most affordable entry point to Kia’s expanding electric vehicle lineup — with a starting price of around €30,000 (£26,000).
Kia EV2 Reveal Timeline
Kia president and CEO Song Ho-Sung confirmed to Auto Express that the EV2 will be revealed in full “early next year”, hinting at a possible debut at the Brussels Motor Show in January. Although no official date has been set, the timing aligns with Kia’s strategy to expand its EV range in Europe, positioning the EV2 as a key player in the affordable urban EV market.
Interestingly, the EV2 will not be sold in Korea, as Ho-Sung explained that smaller cars have limited appeal in Kia’s home market. Instead, the EV2 will be built at Kia’s factory in Slovakia from 2026, taking over the production space previously used for the Kia Ceed.
Designed for Europe, Built for City Life
Unlike Kia’s larger electric SUVs, the Kia EV2 is designed from the ground up for European roads and lifestyles. Ho-Sung described the EV2 as “the new entry point to Kia’s range,” targeting urban drivers who want practicality, tech, and style in a compact package.
When it launches, the EV2 will rival small electric hatchbacks like the Citroën e-C3, Volkswagen ID. Polo, and the upcoming Cupra Raval, while also leaving space in the lineup for the future Kia EV1, a smaller city EV.
Kia EV2 Design and Styling
The Kia EV2 Concept made its first appearance during Kia’s EV Day in Spain earlier this year, giving us a clear look at the brand’s new small EV direction. According to Karim Habib, Kia’s Executive Vice President and Head of Global Design, “a lot of [the concept] you will see” on the final production car.
Key design highlights include:
- Upright stance and small-SUV profile, similar to recent Kia test mules.
- Signature ‘Star Map’ daytime running lights (DRLs) in line with Kia’s Opposites United design language.
- Wider rear lighting set across the tailgate to emphasize the car’s stance.
- SUV-inspired cladding and bumper inserts for a rugged urban look.
- Four-spoke wheels on the concept (likely toned down for production).
The result is a compact electric SUV that blends practicality with Kia’s bold new aesthetic.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the Kia EV2 is expected to deliver impressive space and versatility for its class. Ho-Sung emphasized “interior roominess” as one of the EV2’s strongest selling points.
The concept features:
- Sliding, folding, and reclining rear bench similar to the Honda Jazz, allowing flexible cargo and passenger configurations.
- A minimalist dashboard with dual digital screens, which will likely remain in the production model.
- Innovative 3D-printed materials and eco-friendly finishes.
- While the concept used rear-hinged doors, Kia confirmed this feature won’t make it to production — though the Hyundai Group is working to bring it to future models.
Overall, expect a smart, tech-focused interior designed for urban mobility.
Battery, Range and Charging
The Kia EV2 will sit on the E-GMP platform — the same dedicated electric architecture used by the EV3, EV4, and EV5.
Key expected powertrain details:
- Single-motor configuration focused on efficiency and affordability.
- Likely battery options:
- ~40 kWh entry-level battery for city use.
- Optional 58 kWh battery (shared with EV3) for longer range.
- Estimated range of up to 300 miles/482km (WLTP) for the larger battery pack.
- 400-volt electrical architecture for solid charging performance.
- Support for Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functions.
- Over-the-air (OTA) software update capability.
These specs would make the Kia EV2 a compelling option for daily commuters and eco-conscious drivers alike.
Price, Specifications and On-Sale Date
Kia has confirmed that the EV2 will launch in 2026 with a starting price of around €30,000 (approx. £26,000). This pricing strategy positions the EV2 slightly above ultra-budget EVs like the Citroën e-C3, but below larger compact SUVs like the Kia EV3 (£33,000+).
