- The Kia Concept EV2 previews a future production model that’s probably too small to be sold on our shores.
- The EV2 has a bulldog-like appearance with its broad shoulders, stubby overhangs, and assertive, albeit still adorable, face.
- Inside, nifty features abound, such as the sliding front bench seat, portable speakers, and text messages that can be displayed through the windows.
Despite a strangely arranged name, the Kia Concept EV2 is like a cute puppy we want to take home. Too bad we’d have to smuggle it out of the adoption center because it’s likely not coming to the United States due to its diminutive dimensions. Still, a production version of the pint-sized electric SUV is slated to be sold elsewhere sometime in 2026.
The EV2 Is Kia’s Smallest-Ever EV
Think of the EV2 concept as Kia’s version of the Hyundai Inster, a similarly tiny and quirky ute that we also don’t get here. While there’s not a single drop of information about the EV2’s electric powertrain, we bet the production version will be influenced by the Inster’s setup, which peaks at 113 horsepower and 108 pound-feet of torque when paired with the larger (lol) 49.0-kWh battery. That translates to roughly 187 miles of range, meaning American drivers would probably treat the Inster or EV2 like a puppy that peed on the carpet.
The EV2 represents Kia’s smallest EV, but its design is similar to its larger siblings. For example, its vertical front lighting elements resemble those of the upcoming EV4 sedan and EV9 three-row SUV. The EV2 also features what Kia has dubbed “Star Map” lighting, which is basically illuminated freckles on the vehicle’s flat front panel. The geometric shapes seen on the glass and wheel arches continue the continuity. However, a couple of things differentiate the EV2 concept from its kin, namely the missing center pillar and rear-hinged back doors (a.k.a. coach doors). While we’d be surprised if those design elements make their way into production, they’re cool nonetheless.
The Concept EV2’s interior is arguably the coolest thing about it. We’ll cut straight to the chase: we’re suckers for front bench seats, so the EV2 is playing games with our hearts. What’s also interesting is that the front bench is on a track, so users can slide it backward and fold the rear seats out of the way, opening space to stretch out or even sit on the flat floor. The latter situation is possible according to Kia, but we’re not sure how feasible that will be for more than one person over six feet tall.
The dashboard features a tablet-like display that wouldn’t be out of place on most current Kia models. The concept also has a fanciful steering wheel that looks like it was melted in the oven. We dig the dash’s fabric material, which looks like it was inspired by the BMW iX, and there’s an oddly colored metal surface that spans the bottom section. Kia says the EV2’s speakers are portable, so car karaoke can easily become a mobile affair.
Another interesting concept is the message lighting that lets people display text messages through the windows. However, it’s quite possible that “Hey, Kia, why don’t you sell cool stuff like the EV2 in America?” is too long to fit.
Eric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si.
Source: Motor - aranddriver.com
