Kia has been testing a new electric Punch rival in Korea with global debut and launch set for 2026!

The upcoming Kia EV2 has been spied testing ahead of its global debut, revealing a smart combination of rugged SUV elements and futuristic EV styling. This new entry-level electric SUV will be positioned below the EV3 in Kia’s global lineup and is likely to appeal to budget-conscious EV buyers looking for style, space, and tech.

Exterior Design

The Kia EV2 adopts a bold, boxy silhouette with a modern upright stance. Inspired by Kia’s larger EV9 and EV3 models, it follows the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. At the front, it sports vertically stacked LED headlamps, a flat bonnet, and a squared-off front fascia. The charging port is integrated at the front, indicating a front-wheel-drive setup on the E-GMP platform.

While the concept version featured open-style LED DRLs, the production model may introduce some changes for practicality. Rugged elements such as a chunky bumper, flared wheel arches with thick black cladding, and prominent body lines reinforce its SUV character.

From the side, the EV2 carries dual-tone aero-style alloy wheels, traditional door handles, dual-tone ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, roof rails, a blacked-out B-pillar, and a slightly sloping roofline. The rear section is expected to feature vertically stacked tail lamps and a high-mounted stop lamp, along with a chunky rear bumper for added visual strength.

Interior & Features

Although the interior can’t be seen in these spy shots, being built on Hyundai-Kia’s E-GMP platform means a flat floor and long wheelbase, translating into a roomier cabin. The EV2 is expected to feature a minimalistic dashboard layout, twin connected displays for infotainment and instrumentation, a gaming-inspired steering wheel, and a full-glass roof to enhance cabin ambience.

Tech features may include a premium sound system, OTA updates, Kia’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC), and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities. Additionally, a comprehensive suite of Level 2 ADAS features is likely, making it one of the most advanced offerings in its segment.

Battery & Performance

The Kia EV2 is expected to offer two battery options:

42 kWh LFP battery with a range of around 350 km.
62 kWh NMC battery with a 500 km range.

Like Kia’s other EVs, the EV2 will support fast charging, allowing a 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes using a public DC fast charger. It may come with a powerful electric motor, possibly similar to the 150 kW unit from the EV3, ensuring strong acceleration.

Additionally, the EV2 could feature Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) charging, allowing users to power small appliances, laptops, and other devices directly from the car’s battery.

Final Thoughts

With a length close to 4 metres, bold styling, and a tech-loaded interior, the Kia EV2 is shaping up to be a highly competitive electric SUV for global markets. As it nears production-ready form, more details will surface, but from what we’ve seen so far, the EV2 will be a strong contender in the affordable EV space.