Kia Just Gave Its Affordable EVs More Power And Pretend Gears

• Kia introduces more powerful, dual-motor versions of the EV3, EV4 and EV5.
• The EV3 GT and EV4 GT deliver 282 horsepower, while the larger EV5 GT packs 302 horsepower.
• Production of all three new GT models is scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2026.

Kia hasn’t gone crazy with the power figure for the GT versions of the EV3, EV4 and EV5, which gets a second motor and better performance—they’re nowhere near as quick as the bonkers EV6 GT. Until now, only single-motor, front-wheel-drive versions of all three models were on offer and driver excitement was clearly not a priority.

But Kia promises the GT models “pair emotional driving with advanced digital experiences” thanks not only to more power but also a dedicated GT driving mode and electronically adjustable suspension. The non-GT versions have soft and very comfort-oriented suspension setups, so it will be interesting to see just how much it’s been stiffened up.

Gallery: Kia EV3 GT

They also get exterior design tweaks and badging to reflect their enhanced sportiness, while inside they feature body-hugging sports seats, a standard three-prong GT steering wheel and artificial engine sounds complete with virtual gear shifting meant give an otherwise completely silent EV the feel of a real performance car.

The EV3 GT (subcompact crossover) and EV4 GT (compact hatchback or sedan) deliver 282 horsepower combined from a 194-hp front motor and a smaller 94-hp rear motor. Kia gave the EV5 GT slightly more power with a combined total of 302 hp, thanks to a more powerful 208 hp front motor.

Gallery: Kia EV4 GT

Rumors suggested that Kia would give these smaller GT models closer to 400 horsepower, but even if that hasn’t materialized all these cars are considerably quicker in GT trim. The quickest is the EV4 GT, which can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.6 seconds, while the EV3 GT needs 5.7 seconds and the bigger, heavier EV5 GT pushes the time to 6.2 seconds.

We don’t know what the WLTP range rating is for any of these new GT cars. They all have the same 81.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack, which gives the EV3 up to 376 miles (605 km), the EV4 up to 391 miles (633 km) and the EV5 up to 344 miles (555 km). All of them will have less range with the extra power draw and weight of the second motor.

Gallery: Kia EV5 GT

Soohang Chang, President and CEO of Kia Europe said “Our new electric Kia GT models prove that electrification can be emotional and resolute. The EV3 GT, EV4 GT, and EV5 GT will deliver an engaging, confidence-inspiring drive, combining the instant responsiveness of electric power with sporty character and all-purpose capability. These GTs are crafted for those who seek the best of both worlds: excitement while embracing a future of responsible mobility.”

Kia hasn’t specified when it plans to introduce these GT models, only that production will begin in Q2 2026, so deliveries should start soon after. There’s also no word on whether the smallest addition to Kia’s electric lineup, the subcompact EV2, is getting a dual-motor GT version.