Kia EV2 Set for January Reveal as Europe’s Next Entry-Level Electric SUV

Introduction

Kia is preparing to expand its European electric lineup with a new entry-level model, the EV2, scheduled to debut on January 9 at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show. Positioned beneath the EV3 and targeting the rapidly growing small EV segment, the EV2 aims to deliver a practical, Europe-focused alternative in the budget-friendly electric SUV class.

Design and Segment Positioning

The EV2 will adopt a compact, upright SUV profile similar to the EV3 but scaled down for urban use. Kia’s teaser images suggest the exterior will remain close to the original EV2 concept, retaining its clean surfacing and simplified lighting signatures. The interior, however, is expected to follow the modern, functional approach seen in the EV3, abandoning the concept’s minimalist experiment in favor of a more production-ready layout.

Platform and Powertrain

Underneath its compact body, the EV2 uses the front-wheel-drive version of Kia’s E-GMP architecture. This platform underpins most of the brand’s purpose-built EVs and provides more packaging efficiency than converted gasoline platforms.

Customers will be able to choose between two battery types:

• A lower-cost LFP pack for the base model, optimized for durability and affordability.

• A higher-capacity NMC pack for extended range, targeting buyers who expect longer motorway capability.

Kia has not yet published official capacities, but the packs will sit between the Hyundai Inster’s 49-kWh upper option and the EV3’s 58.3- and 81.4-kWh choices. This places the EV2 in a competitive position against both in-house rivals and European offerings such as the Renault 5 and Renault 4.

Manufacturing and Market Strategy

The EV2 is being engineered specifically for European use and will be built in Slovakia. Kia emphasizes its commitment to “responsible mobility” in the region, noting that the model is designed, developed, and produced in Europe—a strategic move that should shorten supply chains and reduce delivery times.

Although the EV2 could theoretically compete with upcoming U.S. products like the 2026 Chevrolet Bolt EV, tariff barriers mean the model will remain a Europe-focused product, with limited likelihood of North American availability. Beyond Europe, Kia is expected to offer the EV2 in South Korea and selected global markets.

Broader Lineup and Performance Variants

Kia will also use the Brussels stage to launch GT variants of the EV3, EV4, and EV5. These performance-oriented trims are intended to inject more excitement into a lineup often praised for capability rather than driving engagement.
The EV2 will not debut with a GT version, but given Kia’s recent product strategy, the possibility of a future performance model remains open.

Pricing and Competitive Landscape

European pricing for the EV2 is projected to begin around €30,000, placing it at the higher end of the small-EV segment. The similarly sized Renault 4 starts just below that mark, but Kia is expected to counter with advantages in rear-seat space, battery efficiency, and likely faster charging speeds.

Driving dynamics, however, may remain an open question. Front-wheel-drive E-GMP models have historically prioritized comfort and range over handling, while the retro-styled Renault 4 has earned early praise for its responsive road manners.

Outlook

With strong demand for compact electric crossovers and increasing pressure to offer more budget-friendly EVs, the EV2 is positioned to play a significant role in Kia’s European strategy. Its combination of practical design, accessible pricing, and regional manufacturing could make it one of the most impactful EV launches of 2026.

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