A COMPACT electric SUV is the latest model to join Kia's growing EV portfolio with the arrival of the EV3.

Taking much of its technology from the large Kia EV9 the newcomer also has styling similarities to the bigger SUV.

With a claimed range of up to 375 miles, a fast charging capability and a 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds the EV3 measures 4,300mm long, 1,850mm wide, 1,560mm high and has a wheelbase of 2,680mm.

Top speed from the 204hp motor is said to be just over 105mph and it will be available with a choice of batteries - 58.3kWh in a standard model which has a range of 254 miles and an 81.4kWh battery in a long range variant.

Recharging from 10 to 80 per cent capacity can be done in around half an hour, says Kia and the EV3 is front wheel drive.

With a 25-litre frunk and a 460-litre rear load capacity, the EV3 has an adjustable two-tier luggage board which provides more than 140mm of load height flexibility.

It is the first model to have Kia's new i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking system which allows for one-pedal driving and the car also has a Vehicle-to-Load facility which enables small electrical devices such as coffee machines, small fridges, kettles and laptops to be operated by hooking up to the car.

Inside, the car is a five seater and the instrument layout is similar to that of the flagship EV9 with two 12.3-inch display screens linked by a five-inch panel for the air conditioning controls.

The near 30-inch combination of displays extends to the centre of the dashboard, giving the front-seat passenger access to entertainment and navigation features.

The EV3 is the first EV model to feature Kia's AI Assistant technology, which provides users with new and innovative ways to interact with and control the vehicle's features.

The EV3 will be introduced first in Korea in July 2024, followed by its European launch in the second half of the year.

Prices and full specification of UK models is still to be announced but it is understood Kia is targeting an entry point of around £30,000.