Five star score keeps EV3 on par with sister electric models.

THE entry-level electric car Kia is in process of introducing to New Zealand has received a top credential from the national independent crash test auditor.

Australasian New Car Assessment Programme, aka ANCAP, which is partly New Zealand-funded and tests product at a centre in Melbourne, has expressed a high level of satisfaction about how well the EV3 performed in a series of assessments.

In achieving five stars, the model is the latest electric model to pass the organisation’s tough 2023–2025 testing protocols with flying colours. All of Kia’s other current electric models here also have five stars.

In a breakdown of its scoring, ANCAP said the car achieved 83 percent for adult occupant protection. It determined adequate to good assessments for protection for all critical body regions of front seat occupants. Top points were awarded for full width frontal and side impact testing.

An 86 percent score for Child Occupant Protection reflects good protection for almost all critical areas. A maximum score was recorded for side impact testing.

In the Vulnerable Road User Protection and Safety Assist pillars, the EV3 achieved 78 percent and 81 percent, respectively. ANCAP noted its automated emergency braking system functioned well.

“Following in the footsteps of the larger EV9 and EV5 models, the Kia EV3 has demonstrated the brand’s continued prioritisation of safety for its Australian and New Zealand customers,” said ANCAP chief executive officer Carla Hoorweg.

EV3 is arriving in three initial forms; Light, Earth and GT Line, all using a 150kW/283Nm electric motor in front-wheel-drive. All-wheel-drive editions are coming in due course.

The entry specification ticks off in $55,290 short range (with a 58kWh battery with a WLTP range of up to 436km) and $62,220 long range model (81kWh battery, 605km, and faster - 128kW - charging). The $69,220 Earth and $75,990 GT line only have the 81kWh battery, with ranges of 563km, this due to them going to larger wheels than the long-range Light.