It was a value play executed to near perfection, undercutting Japanese rivals while throwing in a few extra toys to sweeten the deal. And for a while, it worked like a charm. Then came the Chinese, and they rewrote the playbook.

In this new world of electric SUVs that charge fast, look sharp, and cost less than your cousin’s COE, Kia now has to do more than just tick the right boxes. The EV5 is one such car that feels like Kia’s answer to the question: “What if we built a sensible SUV that doesn’t feel like an accountant specced it?”

It stands out, even without shouting

Where others rely on over-styled grilles and dramatic light shows, the Kia EV5 plays it cool. Its boxy, squared-off silhouette hints at its bigger sibling, the EV9, but it’s more compact and less shouty. Kia calls it the “Digital Tiger Face”, and it’s distinctive enough not to get lost in a sea of anonymous crossovers.

The Earth variant I drove sits right in the Goldilocks zone. It gets the larger 88.1kWh LFP battery, bigger wheels, and just enough bells and whistles to make you feel you’re getting something special.

A cabin that doesn’t try too hard

Slide into the cabin and you’ll realise Kia’s taken a page out of the “less is more” design manual. Unlike some rivals that bury every function behind 14 layers of touchscreens, the EV5 sticks to real buttons, dials, and knobs. Revolutionary, I know. Thank you, Kia.

There’s a 12.3-inch central display, another 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a climate display that’s slightly obscured by the steering wheel. But thankfully, physical toggles for temperature and fan speed are still present. Proof that you don’t have to sacrifice usability at the altar of minimalism.

The drive selector-mounted start/stop button is another clever touch. No fumbling, no hunting. Just tap, twist, and go.

You’ll also find thoughtful amenities like a panoramic roof, wireless charger, and a centre console cooler that chills or warms its contents, although you’re limited to either five degrees or a searing 55. The “jumpseat” is surprisingly handy too, with a small pocket to keep your smartphone in place while driving.

With a 2,750mm wheelbase and a flat floor, the rear cabin feels properly spacious. There’s no third-zone climate control, but B-pillar vents help circulate air where it matters. The cupholders could use a rethink; the door bins don’t accommodate wider bottles, and the ones below the dash are too shallow.

Fold the rear seats and the EV5 reveals its practical side: 1,714 litres of cargo space. Kia even engineered the parcel shelf to double as a picnic table, perfect for your weekend escape or an impromptu carpark charcuterie moment.

And with the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, you can plug in your gadgets and keep the ice cream frozen. Or brew a coffee while streaming Netflix in air-conditioned comfort. No tailpipe, no guilt.

Easygoing, efficient, and mostly predictable

On the road, the Kia EV5 Earth’s 100kW (134bhp) and 310Nm of torque won’t set your hair on fire. It takes 11.6 seconds to hit the century mark, but it gets there with a calm, linear surge.

The suspension strikes a fine balance between comfort and control. Despite its 2.1-tonne heft, it never feels lumpy or wallowy. Braking is drama-free, and the body stays poised through corners. Steering is light but accurate, and you never get the sense that you’re piloting a runaway fridge.

Where it could use a bit more polish is in regenerative braking. Level 3 regen is fine, but the i-PEDAL mode (Kia’s version of one-pedal driving) felt a tad unrefined, with inconsistent braking that left me feathering the accelerator more than I’d like.

Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 is present and accounted for, but it lacks the slickness of rival systems. It works, eventually. Just don’t expect to impress anyone while you stand there holding the button like a magician mid-spell.

So, should you buy one?

There’s a lot to like about the Kia EV5 Earth. It’s a thoughtfully designed, well-rounded family SUV that does the day-to-day stuff without fuss. Its unique style, smart packaging, and Singaporean roots give it character in a space where many rivals blur together.

In a market obsessed with value, the EV5 reminds us that refinement matters too. It might not shout, but it certainly speaks volumes.

Technical Specifications

Kia EV5

Engine: Single Electric Motor
Powertrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 100 kW (134 bhp)
Torque: 310 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A) Reduction Gear
0-100km/h: 11.6 Seconds
Top Speed: 185 km/h
Battery Capacity: 88.1 kWh
Drive Range: 540 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 18.5 kWh/100km (claimed)

Price: S$192,000 (Air), S$208,600 (Earth), both with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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It’s Singapore’s first locally assembled Kia, and it joins the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 on the pedestal of locally-made automobiles.

Design-wise, Kia’s been flexing its “Opposites United” philosophy, and the EV5 wears it well. The front fascia is adorned with Kia’ Digital Tiger Face. Clean, chiselled lines stretch out into Star Map LEDs that make the car look like it’s plotting a course for the future.

Beyond the bold exterior, the EV5’s secret weapon is its cabin. Step inside and you’re greeted by tons of space, courtesy of the 2,750mm wheelbase and a lofty 1,715mm height, giving everyone room to breathe.

The Panoramic Wide Display fuses three screens into one seamless interface, giving the dash a tech-forward elegance. And if you’re lucky enough to snag the Earth or GT-Line variants, you’ll get Kia’s Relaxation Seat, complete with massage function, lumbar support, and a leg rest.

With the rear seats down, you’re looking at 1,714 litres of cargo capacity. With all seats up, it’s 513 litres, plus a 67-litre frunk. Plus, the EV5 is peppered with thoughtful touches: a Smart Power Tailgate that opens hands-free, a heated-and-cooled storage drawer for drinks, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) tech that lets you power a laptop, a rice cooker, or even a karaoke machine.

Three variants cater to different drivers, from the pragmatic to the performance-hungry:

• Air: With 100kW and 310Nm of torque, it’s the starter pack. It gives you 400km of WLTP range and charges from 10% to 80% in just 36 minutes.
• Earth: The range king, with a larger 88.1kWh battery offering 540km on a single charge.
• GT-Line: All-wheel-drive, dual-motor, 230kW, 480Nm, and a 0–100km/h dash in 6.3 seconds.

Of course, being a Kia, it comes armed to the teeth with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Avoidance is all there, quietly working in the background so you can enjoy the drive without second-guessing every lane change or parking manoeuvre.

Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 is also included. With this, you can step out and let your car park itself, the party trick that’ll impress neighbours and confuse nosy cats in HDB carparks alike.

“This launch represents an extraordinary moment for both Kia and Singapore,” said Wilfrid Foo, Managing Director of Cycle & Carriage Singapore. “The EV5 delivers on every front, a product tailor-made for our country, in our country.”

With prices starting at S$194,000 (with COE) for the Air variant, S$210,600 for the Earth, and S$260,000 for the range-topping GT-Line, the Kia EV5 is competitively priced against its rivals.

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Slated to run from 3pm on 18 April to 3pm on 20 April 2025, the challenge is a rallying cry to Kia Niro Hybrid owners to prove, in real-world conditions, what their fuel-sipping crossovers are capable of.

It’s also a tip of the hat to the Niro’s own performance legacy, harking back to its record-setting 2022 feat: a national benchmark of 970km in 24 hours, achieved without a single fuel stop.

Unlike the typical “test drive” where you spend 20 minutes figuring out how to adjust the seats, participants are invited to form three-driver teams, craft their own routes, and take shifts behind the wheel, all while coaxing every last kilometre from a sealed 42-litre fuel tank. Each team will also pass through a designated pit stop to clock in and check their standing.

It’s a strategic test as much as it is mechanical. Route planning, driver habits, terrain, all of it will factor into how far the Niro can go on that single tank.

And with real rewards on the table, the motivation to optimise every kilometre is real. $10,000 in cash and servicing credits await the team that travels the farthest, and for those crossing the 970km mark, there’s a fuel and servicing voucher bonus too.

And while the challenge is about kilometres, it’s also about community. Every team that signs up walks away with a full tank of petrol, limited-edition t-shirts, and a goodie bag to commemorate the journey. 

For those ready to test their mettle and mileage, the clock for the Unstoppable Niro 48Hr Challenge starts ticking on 18 April. One tank. One mission. One record to beat. Are you in?

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Introduced at the Wearable Robot Tech Day at Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, this pioneering device promises to be useful for industries as diverse as construction, shipbuilding, and agriculture.

The X-ble Shoulder is designed with overhead tasks in mind; this robot assists upper arm muscles, reducing shoulder strain by up to 60% and muscle activity by 30%. 

Weighing just 1.9kg, the X-ble Shoulder is crafted from high-strength carbon composite and wear-resistant materials.

The parts that touch the user’s body feature impact-resistant materials, ensuring safety even in demanding environments. The modular design makes maintenance a breeze, while the detachable vest means it’s easy to clean.

What sets this wearable apart is its muscle compensation module, which provides assistive force without needing a battery. This patented multi-link system allows for up to 700,000 folding and unfolding actions annually, adapting seamlessly to various industrial tasks. 

Available in basic and adjustable versions, the X-ble Shoulder offers customised solutions: the basic model caters to dynamic, ever-changing postures, while the adjustable variant is ideal for repetitive tasks.

Hyundai and Kia conducted a two-year trial involving 300 workers and health managers, incorporating feedback into the design. From unrestricted arm movement to adjustable assistive force, every feature reflects what users need most in a high-performance wearable.

The Robotics Lab plans to roll out additional devices, including the X-ble Waist for heavy lifting and the X-ble MEX, a medical robot aimed at rehabilitating walking impairments.

As Dong Jin Hyun, Vice President and Head of Robotics Lab, puts it: “We aim to create products that work naturally with users to enhance their daily lives. By pushing technological boundaries, we will make these beneficial products accessible to more people.”

While the X-ble Shoulder is set to debut in Hyundai and Kia’s production and maintenance departments, the companies have bigger plans. By 2026, they aim to expand sales to Europe, North America, and beyond, tapping into industries ranging from aviation to automobiles.

Interested businesses can already inquire through Hyundai Robotics Lab’s official site, where they’ll also find integrated consulting services to assess how the wearable could transform their operations.

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The event followed the global success of Kia EV Day 2023; distributors, media, and stakeholders gathered to witness the unveiling of two standout models: the Kia EV3, and the futuristic Concept PV5.

Kia EV3

If the EV9 was Kia’s audacious debut into the electric SUV space, the EV3 is its more approachable sibling. Set to launch in select Asia Pacific markets in 2025, the EV3 is built on Kia’s E-GMP platform. 

Boxy rear fenders and a sloping roofline ensure it stands out, while its performance credentials, including Electric Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control (eDTVC) and advanced driver assistance systems, signal a vehicle designed to handle with grace and confidence. 

Kia Concept PV5

The Concept PV5 is what Kia terms a “Platform Beyond Vehicle” (PBV), a term to describe its vision for adaptable, purpose-built mobility. Whether ferrying passengers in a ride-hailing service, delivering goods, or accommodating adventure seekers, the PV5 adapts with ease.

Its simple yet robust design emphasises functionality, while advanced spatial and software technologies ensure a customisable experience.

Commitment to Customer Experience

Ki Seok Ahn, President & CEO of Kia Asia Pacific HQ, summed up the brand’s direction succinctly: “Our inaugural Asia Pacific region EV Day is a testament to Kia’s unwavering dedication to sustainable mobility. By prioritising a customer-centric approach, we’re not just meeting consumer demands but shaping a greener, more innovative future.”

To back this ambition, Kia plans to establish six global EV production bases by 2025, aiming to sell 1.6 million EVs annually by 2030. This includes expanding hybrid and PBV offerings, and ensuring a versatile lineup for diverse markets.

Kia’s EV strategy isn’t limited to what happens on the road. The brand is also focusing on enhancing customer experience across all touchpoints, from the showroom to the digital interface and even at home. Premium, personalised technologies are at the heart of this transformation.

For more details on Kia’s latest innovations, visit Kia’s official website.

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Kia’s flagship family mover, the Carnival, has finally caught up with Kia’s hybrid lineup. With the diesel now a distant memory, Kia is throwing down the gauntlet for spacious, eco-friendly transport.

But does the new Carnival Hybrid offer the efficiency we’ve all been waiting for, or is it more style than substance?

Looks like that mean business

Traditionally, the Carnival’s SUV-inspired styling (Kia calls it a GUV, or Grand Utility Vehicle) has kept it relevant in a world veering more toward SUVs than minivans.

Post-facelift, this new model feels like it’s embracing its MPV identity, albeit in a slick, sci-fi kind of way.

The ‘Tiger Nose’ grille is draped in a striking black, framed by sleek LED light strips and sharp, cuboid-shaped main beams. The look is futuristic, aligning it neatly with Kia’s updated Sorento and EV9 designs.

More good news on the inside too

The outgoing Carnival was already pretty premium, and this new hybrid continues that trend. A 12.3-inch touchscreen takes centre stage with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Kia’s streamlined controls keep things simple, with touch-sensitive buttons for volume, climate, and tuning controls, alongside faster USB-C charging for passengers.

The Carnival Hybrid’s interior is as practical as they come. Clever design choices like the fold-flat third row and nicely appointed captain chairs, alongside big door pockets and well-thought-out cupholders all contribute to a great occupant experience.

At 178cm, I had no trouble hopping in the back, and even the third row has room to spare, complete with cupholders and sunshades for added comfort.

With all three rows up, the boot still offers a generous 627 litres of space, more than most competing MPVs. Drop the third row, and you’re looking at a whopping 2,827 litres, enough for a full IKEA run and then some.

The Carnival Hybrid may just be the most practical eight-seater in the country.

Under the hood

Here’s where things get interesting. The Carnival Hybrid pairs a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 54kW electric motor, offering a combined 180kW (241bhp) of power and 366Nm of torque.

Compared to the V6 petrol (216 kW) and diesel (440 Nm), it’s not quite as beefy but is perfectly balanced for the kind of smooth, efficient drive you’d want in a family mover.

With a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery under the second row, the Carnival Hybrid does away with a spare tyre (it comes with a repair kit instead). Fuel economy is rated at 15.3km/litre, and I got close with an average of 14.2km/litre. Impressive for a mammoth-sized MPV.

The hybrid’s advantage shows in range: a full tank gets you about 1,058 km, well above the petrol V6’s 580 km and even edging out the diesel’s 1,028 km. For those doing long drives, it’s a convenience worth considering.

Smooth operator

The Carnival Hybrid transitions seamlessly between petrol, hybrid, and full EV modes, with the engine humming to life only when needed. It’s surprisingly quiet at low speeds, thanks to the EV mode.

The six-speed automatic gearbox is integrated with the electric motor, ensuring there’s no lag as the car shifts modes.

In city driving or with a carload of passengers, power delivery is smooth, thanks to the torque from the electric motor, and the engine’s ready to rev without complaint when you’re fully loaded.

I spent most of my drive in Eco mode, where the hybrid’s performance is more than enough for daily errands. In Sport mode, it’s zippier, calling on the petrol engine more often for a bit of extra push.

On the highway, it settles into EV mode at cruising speeds, creating a hushed cabin atmosphere perfect for long drives. Road noise sneaks in on rougher surfaces, but for the most part, it’s a serene ride.

Kia’s tweaks to the shock absorbers and steering have created a stable, composed drive, though the weight is noticeable over bumps.

Packed with tech, the Carnival Hybrid includes a surround-view camera with an augmented reality display to help you park. Blind-spot cameras activate when you indicate, giving you a full view of what’s lurking in your blind spot.

This is worth the splurge

The only foreseeable challenge the Kia Carnival Hybrid has is its price. At $287,999 for the 8-seater, it’s slightly on the pricier end of the spectrum.

But, for those who value space, prioritize a quieter and cleaner drive, plus plan to put the Carnival’s impressive range to good use, this new Hybrid variant is an appealing choice for large families.

I loved it back when it launched in 2021, and I love it even more now.

Technical Specifications

Kia Carnival Hybrid

Engine: 1.6-litre Smartstream Turbo Hybrid
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 180 kW (241 bhp)
Torque: 366 Nm
Gearbox: 6-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 9.3 seconds (claimed)
Fuel Economy: 15.3 km/litre (claimed)
Price: S$287,999 (8-seater) / S$295,999 (7-seater) with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Contact: Kia Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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A Modern Marvel with a Personal Touch

Just under a decade ago, the Kia Sorento captured the hearts of many with its blend of efficiency and value, particularly with the 2.2 CRDi model—a personal recommendation I made to countless friends and family. Those same vehicles are still in service, a testament to their enduring appeal and reliability.

Fast forward to today, and the latest iteration, the MQ4 chassis, stands ready to continue that legacy. Despite the challenges of soaring Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices, the new Kia Sorento Hybrid SX Tech Pack is a vehicle that deserves a closer look.

Design and Styling

Upon first glance, the 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid makes a striking impression. The design language, which debuted on the Kia EV9 Electric, includes a commanding grille and vertically oriented headlamps, accented by the now-iconic Kia daytime running lights.

These updates enhance its aesthetic and position the Sorento at the forefront of modern SUV design, reflecting a bold step forward for the brand.

Interior Luxury

Stepping inside the Sorento feels like entering a high-tech sanctuary. The standout feature is the massive, integrated display (over 24 inches wide) stretching elegantly across the dashboard. This setup simplifies the interface, allowing drivers to toggle effortlessly between climate and infotainment systems via a new horizontal touchscreen panel.

The interior design is thoughtful and user-centric, focusing on comfort with plush, ventilated seats that make every journey a pleasure.

Dimensions and Driveability

The Kia Sorento is undeniably substantial in size, but it handles like a much smaller vehicle. Its generous dimensions provide plenty of room inside without feeling bulky on the road. Thanks to the advanced lane assist system, navigating through tighter spaces is less intimidating, enhancing the driving experience significantly.

Driving the Sorento around town, you feel a reassuring sense of control and stability, a rare find in vehicles of this size.

Performance and Efficiency

The heart of the Sorento is its 1.6-litre turbo hybrid engine, a powerhouse that delivers 212 bhp and 366 Nm of torque. The performance is smooth, and the transition between electric and gasoline power feels seamless.

While you can hear the engine work hard upon heavy acceleration, it is never intrusive, showcasing the Sorento’s good sound insulation.

The performance is pretty punchy. With the century sprint in just over 9 seconds, the car accelerates promptly and switches from EV mode to ICE mode seamlessly—proving that power and hybrid efficiency can coexist beautifully.

While testing, I noted the fuel efficiency to be around 14 km/L, not quite reaching the ambitious 19.6 km/L touted by Kia, yet still impressive for its class, especially given the full use of amenities like air conditioning during my drives.

Daily Conveniences and Safety

Kia has packed the Sorento with features that enhance daily driving. Everything is designed to create a comfortable and connected driving environment, from ventilated seats and a wireless charging pad to seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The addition of a 12-speaker Bose sound system elevates the audio experience, making every commute feel like a private concert.

Conclusion

The 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX Tech Pack is more than just a vehicle; it feels like a mobile extension of my home. Its blend of style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and luxurious SUV.

For those with a long history with the brand, this latest Sorento is a proud continuation of Kia’s legacy of innovation and value. It’s a vehicle that meets the modern driver’s needs and does so with flair and a personal touch that’s hard to find elsewhere in the market.

Now, could we just remove that huge ‘SORENTO’ emblazoned on the side?

Technical Specifications

Kia Sorento

Powertrain: 1,598 cc Turbocharged Hybrid
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 212 bhp combined
Torque: 366 Nm
Gearbox: 6-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 9.3 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 193 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 19.6 km/l
Price: S$270,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Kia Singapore

Photo Credits: Joel Tam (@carboy_365)

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For those of you eyeing a practical 7-seater SUV, this one might just be the ride you’ve been waiting for.

This facelifted Sorento Hybrid looks sharp, with its sleeker, more defined front end. The revamped bumper, grille, and slimmed-down taillights resemble both the EV9 and the new Carnival. 

Take a walk to the rear, and you’ll notice the previously separated taillights now gently bridged together at the top. Small changes, but they give the Sorento an even more commanding presence on the road. 

Inside, the Sorento Hybrid has had a serious makeover. The dashboard now features what Kia calls a “single curved panel,” which elegantly merges a pair of 12.3-inch screens.

Kia’s hallmark switchable control panel sits right beneath, and the cabin now feels more premium.

If you remember, the original Sorento arrived in Singapore with a turbodiesel engine. But in this facelifted version, it’s all about petrol-electric power. And with the updated hybrid system, this SUV feels fresher, more relevant to the times we’re driving in. 

Under the hood, the new Sorento Hybrid boasts a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, paired with a 64bhp electric motor. Combined, you’re looking at 212bhp and a beefy 366Nm of torque. 

All this power is funnelled through a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, clearing the century sprint in a respectable 9.3 seconds. It’s slightly down on power compared to the pre-facelift version, but the extra electrical shove more than makes up for it.

Now, if you’re only focusing on those power numbers, you might miss the real magic – the hybrid efficiency. Kia claims an impressive fuel consumption of 19.6km/litre, which is amazing for an SUV of this size. 

Tech-wise, this is the most advanced Sorento yet. The latest generation of driving assistance features is fully loaded as standard. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating busy streets, you’ll have systems like Forward Collision Avoidance Assistance, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind-Spot Monitors working with you.

And if you’re upgrading to the SX Tech Pack, ambient mood lighting, a powered panoramic sunroof, and tunes blasting from a 12-speaker BOSE sound system are included.

Even if you opt for the base SX trim, you’re far from missing out. You get 8-way powered front seats with ventilation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and air-con vents for second and third-row passengers.

The SX Tech Pack just takes it all up a notch with extras like a head-up display and all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a top-tier variant.

With prices starting from $244,999 for the SX trim (COE included), the Sorento Hybrid is now available for viewing at Kia’s showroom.

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Three years after its original fourth-generation debut, the new Carnival offers substantial upgrades in exterior styling, cabin features, and, most notably, its drivetrain.

Gone is the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine of the original; you’ll instead find a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 54kW electric motor and a new 6-speed automatic transmission. This transition to a petrol-electric hybrid promises better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

The new turbo-hybrid powertrain delivers more punch than its predecessor, boasting a system output of 241bhp (up by 43bhp) and 366Nm of torque. This boost in power translates to a quicker 0-100 km/h sprint, achieved in just 9.3 seconds (1.4 seconds faster than the previous diesel model). 

Kia also promises enhanced comfort and stability with its advanced hybrid technology. The new ‘E-Ride’ system uses the electric motor to reduce forward and backwards rocking motions. Meanwhile, the ‘E-Handling’ feature aids cornering performance by adjusting power delivery for improved stability.

With an official fuel consumption rate of 15.4 km/litre, this impressive efficiency is supported by the car’s aerodynamic updates. The new 19-inch Hybrid Electric Vehicle-specific rims, featuring a blocky pattern, have been optimised for better airflow.

Additionally, active air flaps on the lower bumper, similar to those on the fully electric Kia EV9, automatically adjust to reduce drag and improve fuel economy.

The Carnival Hybrid’s refreshed exterior maintains its ‘Grand Utility Vehicle’ identity, now with slimmer head and taillight signatures and a reshaped ‘Tiger Nose’ grille.

Despite a slight increase in height (now 1,785mm), it remains practical for navigating carparks with 1.8m height limits.

Inside, the Carnival Hybrid continues to shine with its generous space, particularly in the boot, which offers a substantial 627 litres even with all three rows of seats in place.

This space is complemented by an unchanged wheelbase of 3,090mm, ensuring ample room for passengers across all three rows.

Like the old model, the Carnival Hybrid comes in both 8-seater and 7-seater configurations. The latter, ideal for a more luxurious experience, features reclinable ‘Relaxation Seats’ in the second row – complete with footrests, ventilation, and multi-directional sliding capabilities.

The cabin now boasts a sophisticated three two-tone interior colour scheme (like the Navy/Misty Gray combination pictured above).

The upgraded dashboard integrates two 12.3-inch screens, an LCD touch panel for volume and climate controls, a head-up display, and a shift-by-wire rotary gear selector.

The Kia Carnival Hybrid is now available for purchase, starting at $269,999 (including COE) for the eight-seater variant.

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Cruising down the boulevard in a sleek, all-electric crossover. That’s the promise of Kia’s latest model, the EV3, as it joins its’ EV lineup.

Range anxiety is a thing of the past, with the EV3 boasting 600km of range on its Long Range variant. It overshadows the EV6’s 506km, thanks to the E-GMP platform – a foundation it shares with the Ioniq 5.

This setup supports an impressive 81.4kWh battery, while the Standard model packs a 58.3kWh pack.

Either variant will come equipped with a 201bhp electric motor, pushing out 283Nm of torque. Good for a 7.5 second 0 to 100km/h time. Despite its boxy stature, the car boasts a drag coefficient of 0.26, helping to improve overall range.

On that note, drawing design cues from the EV9, it sports vertical headlights and a clean, confident front facade.

Its long, sloping roofline culminates in a practical hatchback-like tailgate, optimising interior space. And for those who prefer a touch of rugged charm, the GT-Line variant offers an adventurous twist with contrasting body trim pieces.

The interior of the EV3 has a gigantic nearly 30-inch widescreen display that merges with a 12.3-inch cluster and AVN display, complemented by a 5.0-inch air-conditioning panel.

The centre console can also transform into a work surface, and recycled fabrics adorn the dashboard and door trims.

Kia’s new streaming service is powered by LG’s Automotive Content Platform, with access to in-car gaming and customisation apps through the Kia Connect Store. With 460 litres of boot space, the EV3 is decently practical too.

Set to launch in Korea in July 2024 and to arrive in European and Asian markets shortly after, the Kia EV3 seems like it’ll be a hit with EV enthusiasts.

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