There's wonderful news for electric vehicle enthusiasts and environmental advocates alike: Kia's EV3 is showing the world that affordable, practical electric vehicles are winning over drivers everywhere.

In what can only be described as a triumphant debut, the compact EV3 electric SUV has become a beloved choice for environmentally conscious drivers across Europe, South Korea, and beyond. Since its late 2024 launch, this small but impressive vehicle has demonstrated that sustainable transportation doesn't have to break the bank or compromise on quality.

The numbers tell an inspiring story. In just the first nine months of 2025, over 75,000 drivers chose the EV3 as their vehicle of choice. In the UK, it claimed third place among retail electric vehicles with 5,343 registrations, while helping Kia achieve record-breaking annual sales. The company celebrated becoming the fourth-best-selling brand in the UK with a healthy 5.6% market share.

Perhaps most impressively, the EV3 helped Kia maintain its position as the largest car brand in the Netherlands for the third consecutive time—outpacing automotive giants like Volkswagen and Toyota. With nearly 11,000 registrations, the EV3 ranked as the second-most registered vehicle of any type in the Dutch market, a remarkable achievement that speaks to its universal appeal.

The EV3's success story extends to Australia as well, where it secured a spot in the top ten best-selling electric vehicles, demonstrating its global appeal and versatility across different markets and driving conditions.

What makes this achievement even more heartening is what it represents for the future of sustainable transportation. Starting at approximately $42,000 in Europe, the EV3 offers an impressive range of up to 375 miles on a single charge, proving that electric vehicles can be both affordable and practical for everyday use. Its compact size—similar to the Chevrolet Bolt EUV—makes it perfect for urban environments while still offering the space and comfort families need.

Kia's commitment to an electric future is truly encouraging. Rather than scaling back like some manufacturers, the Korean automaker is doubling down on electrification with plans for a comprehensive EV lineup spanning from the upcoming entry-level EV2 all the way to the spacious EV9. This dedication paid off handsomely in 2025, with Kia celebrating its best sales year ever at 3.13 million vehicles globally.

The ripple effects of the EV3's success are already being felt throughout the industry. Other major manufacturers, including Ford and Volkswagen, are now accelerating their plans for smaller, more affordable electric vehicles. This healthy competition benefits everyone, as it drives innovation and makes sustainable transportation accessible to more people.

For American drivers eager to join the electric revolution, there's good news on the horizon: the EV3 is still expected to arrive in the US sometime in 2026, with pricing anticipated between $35,000 and $40,000. In the meantime, Kia is offering generous incentives on its current electric lineup, with discounts exceeding $10,000, making it easier than ever to make the switch to clean energy transportation.

The EV3's success story is more than just impressive sales figures—it's proof that when automakers create affordable, high-quality electric vehicles, people enthusiastically embrace them. This is the kind of positive momentum that will help us build a cleaner, more sustainable future for everyone.