Officially launched on January 9, 2026, at the Brussels Motor Show, the new Kia EV2 marks a turning point for the South Korean manufacturer. It is the brand's most affordable and compact electric SUV, designed specifically for the European market and urban congestion.
Here is a detailed analysis of the new model that promises to democratize electric mobility.
The Kia EV2 adopts the "Opposites United" design language, offering a boxy and robust appearance that gives it a much more imposing presence than its compact dimensions suggest.
Light signature: The model adopts Star Map LED technology, with vertically arranged headlights that emphasize the width of the car.
Dimensions: With a length of 4,060 mm, a width of 1,800 mm and a wheelbase of 2,565 mm, the EV2 is optimized for urban maneuverability without sacrificing interior space.
Practical details: The body is protected by black plastic elements in the lower areas, emphasizing the SUV character, while the GT-Line variant brings 19-inch wheels (compared to standard 16 or 18 inches) and bumpers painted in the body color.
Although it is the smallest model in the EV range, the interior has been designed to maximize the feeling of space and utility, under the "picnic box" concept.
Technology: The dashboard is dominated by a panoramic screen that integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch multimedia screen. Between them, a 5.3-inch screen provides quick access to climate control.
Sustainable materials: The interior uses eco-friendly materials, such as linen and mycelium biocomposites, offering a warm and modern texture.
Flexibility: The rear seat is adjustable in length (sliding), allowing you to prioritize legroom (up to 958 mm) or the trunk, which has a generous volume of 403 liters. In addition, there is a small front trunk (frunk).
The new Kia EV2 is built on an optimized version of the E-GMP platform, focused on efficiency and low costs.
| Feature | Standard Range | Long Range |
| Battery Capacity | 42.2 kWh | 61.0 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | ~317 km | 448 km |
| DC Fast Charging (10-80%) | 29 minutes | 30 minutes |
| Powertrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Length | 4,060 mm | 4,060 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Cargo Volume (Rear) | 403 Liters | 403 Liters |
| Key Technologies | V2L, V2G, OTA Updates | V2L, V2G, OTA Updates |
Although official power figures have not been fully detailed for all markets, the electric motor is estimated to deliver between 115 and 150 hp, offering agile performance for urban traffic.
Kia did not skimp on features, equipping the EV2 with assistance systems usually found on premium models:
V2L (Vehicle-to-Load): Allows electrical appliances to be powered directly from the car battery.
Highway Driving Assist 2: Adaptive cruise control and lane keeping.
Remote Smart Parking Assist: Allows parking the car from outside, using the digital key.
Kia has positioned the EV2 as a direct rival to models like the Renault 4 E-Tech or the Citroën ë-C3. Although official prices for Romania will be announced closer to the commercial debut this summer, estimates are as follows:
Starting price (estimated): Approximately €28,000 – €30,000 (without subsidies).
Through the Rabla Plus Program: The price could drop significantly, making the EV2 one of the most attractive offers on the market.
Production: The model will be manufactured in Europe, at the plant in Žilina (Slovakia), thus ensuring competitive delivery times for Romanian customers.
In the Romanian market, Kia has transformed itself from a pragmatic player into a technological leader in the electric segment, capitalizing on the global success of its “EV” range. The brand's local strategy is based on diversity: from affordable urban SUVs to premium models that compete with luxury brands.
Here's how the other Kia electric models will appear in showrooms in Romania at the beginning of 2026:
1. Kia EV3: The "Best-Seller" of the Moment
Recently launched, the EV3 has quickly become the brand's most popular electric model in Romania. It occupies the compact SUV segment and attracts customers with its excellent price-to-range ratio.
Why it's successful: It offers an impressive range of up to 605 km (Long Range version), surpassing many rivals in its segment.
Price in Romania: Starts from approximately €35,000 – €37,000, ideally positioned for young families who want a versatile electric car.
2. Kia EV9: The Premium Flagship
The EV9 is the most imposing model in the range, a 6 or 7-seat SUV that has managed to "steal" customers from established German brands.
Positioning: It is considered a more affordable, but equally technologically advanced alternative to models like the BMW iX or Mercedes EQE SUV.
Price in Romania: Starts at around €72,500. Although the price is high for the Romanian market volume, the model sells well in the corporate segment and for large families looking for generous space and ultra-fast charging (800V).
3. Kia EV6: The Performance Pioneer
The model that started the electric revolution for Kia remains a constant presence on our streets. The EV6 is appreciated for its sporty crossover design and for the GT version, which offers supercar performance (585 hp).
Update: In 2025, the model received a facelift that aligned the front design with that of the EV3 and EV9 models (Star Map signature).
Price in Romania: Updated versions start at around €45,000 – €50,000.
4. Kia EV5 and EV4: The New Additions
Kia EV5: It is the mid-size SUV (C-segment), positioned between the EV3 and EV6. It recently entered the offer of dealers in Romania, being seen as the "electric successor to the popular Sportage".
Kia EV4: A sedan/hatchback with an unconventional design, aimed at customers who don't necessarily want an SUV, but want the cutting-edge technology of the E-GMP platform.
The local market benefits from several brand-specific advantages:
7-year warranty: It remains the main selling point in Romania, giving confidence to customers reluctant to the reliability of batteries.
Dealer network: Kia Romauto has one of the most extensive national networks, providing service and technical support for complex electrical systems in all major cities.
Rabla Plus Program: Kia Romania is very active in campaigns through the environmental fund, managing to make models like the new EV2 or EV3 extremely competitive compared to internal combustion engines.
Conclusion: With the launch of the EV2, Kia now covers all essential segments in Romania, from the small class (EV2) to the luxury class (EV9), consolidating its position at the top of Romanians' preferences for sustainable mobility.