Kia will phase out several petrol-powered models in the UK to make room for new electric vehicles, including the EV4 and a smaller entry-level EV2, the company said.
The Korean automaker is streamlining its internal combustion engine lineup, reducing trim options for the Picanto and XCeed to three variants — Pure, GT-Line and GT-Line S — while ending production of the Ceed and Ceed SW. Production has already stopped for the Proceed at Kia’s Zilina plant in Slovakia.
A company spokesperson told Autocar the changes are aimed at “clearing room” for upcoming EV production. “We are preparing the facility for the EV4, with deliveries set to begin imminently after orders opened earlier this year,” the spokesperson said. The EV4 will be offered in both fastback and hatchback versions.
The Zilina plant will also produce Kia’s EV2, scheduled to launch in early 2026. The subcompact EV, expected to measure about 4,000 mm in length, will sit below the EV3 in Kia’s lineup. While pricing details have not been disclosed, industry estimates suggest it could start at about £25,000 ($33,500).
Kia has been steadily gaining ground in the UK electric vehicle market. The EV3 was the country’s top-selling retail EV in the first half of 2025, helping Kia become the UK’s third best-selling car brand. With the EV4 and EV2 on the horizon, the company is looking to maintain its momentum.
