Kia’s compact electric SUV, the EV3, could be nearing its North American debut after a camouflaged version was recently spotted testing on U.S. roads, sparking speculation that the model could arrive as early as 2026.
The EV3 has already gained significant traction in overseas markets. In the first quarter of the year, Kia sold 27,761 electric vehicles in Europe, a 17% increase over the company’s previous record in Q3 2023. The EV3 accounted for 64% of those sales, with 17,878 units sold. In Korea, it continues to lead as the country’s top-selling electric vehicle.
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Kia’s EV3 also made a notable impact in the United Kingdom in March, where it was the best-selling retail electric car, contributing to a record 21% share of Kia’s total vehicle sales being electric in that market.
A recent video by KindelAuto captured a camouflaged EV3—presumed to be the U.S.-spec version—featuring design elements such as orange side reflectors, which are typically required to meet North American regulations. While Kia has not officially confirmed the vehicle’s launch timeline, industry watchers expect the EV3 to debut in the U.S. later this year with a market launch in early 2026.
See also: Kia EV3 Becomes UK’s Top-Selling Retail EV in Q1, Driving Record Global Sales for Brand
Pricing for the U.S. version has yet to be disclosed, but it is expected to fall between $35,000 and $40,000. For comparison, the EV3 is priced at approximately €36,000 ($40,000) in Europe and KRW 42.08 million (roughly $30,700) in South Korea.
While the EV3 continues to expand into markets such as Australia and New Zealand, Kia is also preparing to launch its first electric sedan, the EV4, in North America next year. The 2026 EV4 will include a built-in NACS port for access to Tesla Superchargers and is estimated to offer a range of up to 330 miles. Its pricing is also projected to start in the $35,000 to $40,000 range.
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