Kia EV3 GT and EV4 GT join electric performance blitz

Kia has unveiled high-performance GT versions of its EV3 and EV4 models at the Brussels Motor Show.

Using shared underpinnings and powertrains, the EV3 GT and EV4 GT both offer almost 290bhp from a new all-wheel-drive setup. Kia says this delivers the best of both worlds for drivers looking for performance and engagement even as they “embrace responsible mobility”.

Set to go on sale later this year, the EV3 GT marks Kia’s first foray into the world of spiced-up compact crossovers. It is set to go head-to-head with the 276bhp Abarth 600e, Vauxhall Mokka GSE and Skoda Elroq vRS.

The EV4 GT, meanwhile, will be sold in both hatchback and fastback variants, offering a rival to the Cupra Born VZ and Volkswagen ID3. GTX.

Powering both EV3 and EV4 GT is a two-motor arrangement with one 194bhp unit mounted at the front wheels and a 94bhp unit driving the rear wheels for a combined 288bhp.

In the EV3 GT, that delivers a 0-62mph time of 5.8 seconds while the lower, sleeker EV4 GT shaved 0.1 seconds off that time. That makes Kia’s newest hot hatch as quick off the line as the VW ID.3 GTX, despite being 35bhp down on the German EV.

With the EV4 already positioned as a more dynamic alternative to an SUV, Kia says the hot version brings a new level of sportiness and agility.

As well as new powertrains, Kia has reworked the cars’ chassis and introduced electronically controlled suspension with bespoke GT tuning. Driving modes have also been enhanced with a dedicated GT mode and both cars borrow the virtual gearshift technology (VGS) and active sound design from the larger EV6 GT and EV9 GT.

As with the larger GT models, the VGS and active sound design in the EV3 and EV4 GT work together to create a more connected feel. The sound design responds to throttle position and pressure to match it with a synthesised “engine” sound. At the same time, VSG simulates the action of an eight-speed sequential gearbox controlled via the braking regeneration paddles on the steering column.

Befitting their flagship performance position, the EV3 and EV4 GTs get design enhancements. More aggressive body kits and bespoke 20-inch alloy wheels with performance-focused tyres will mark them out externally. Internally, semi-bucket seats, neon green highlights and ambient lighting linked to drive modes are joined by unique GT interface graphics.

With the focus on performance, Kia is keeping quiet about range for its new GTs but all three models use the same 81.4kWh battery as the standard single-motor cars. Expect the extra power and weight to mean a drop in range from the 375-388 miles they are currently capable of.

There is also no word on the price of the new GT models. We would expect the EV3 GT to align closely with rivals such as the Elroq vRS somewhere just north of £45,000.

The EV4, too, can be expected to steer close to its key rivals at around £45,000.

The EV3 GT and EV4 GT were revealed at the same show as the EV5 GT, which brings an even more powerful all-wheel-drive setup to the brand’s C-segment SUV.

When they go on sale later in 2026, they will join the existing 641bhp EV6 GT and the recently launched 502bhp EV9 GT.