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The Hindu
5 days ago
- Automotive
- The Hindu
Vietnam's electric vision eyes Indian roads
I recently had the opportunity to visit VinFast's headquarters in Hai Phong, Vietnam. While there, I experienced the two models that will spearhead VinFast's entry into India: the VF6 and VF7. I also got an inside look at how VinFast builds its cars, and how it plans to build its presence in a competitive and complex market like India. Scale, strategy, and manufacturing muscle VinFast's entry into India is a strategic one, and it comes with real investment. The company is setting up a manufacturing facility at Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable to 150,000 units annually. With an investment of up to USD 500 million, this is not a soft launch — it is a full-fledged push into what is one of the world's most promising auto markets. The strategy is not just about assembling cars. VinFast plans to build an entire EV ecosystem — including charging infrastructure, service networks, and a strong dealership presence spanning both metro and Tier 2/3 cities. There is also a clear focus on localisation to improve cost efficiency, aligning with India's Make in India initiative. But ambition alone does not guarantee success — especially in a market where Tata Motors and Mahindra have already established themselves with localised EV offerings, extensive networks, and strong consumer trust. This is where VinFast's products will have to do the talking. VF6: Compact, connected, and surprisingly refined At 4,241 mm in length and with a 2,730 mm wheelbase, the VF6 slots into the compact SUV category. But in terms of presence, it punches above its weight. The stance is confident, and design-wise, it manages to look futuristic without being flashy. Under the skin is a 150 kW (201 bhp) motor that drives the front wheels and puts out 310 Nm of torque. The 0–100 km/h time of 8.89 seconds feels adequate for daily commutes, with a linear throttle response and quick off-the-line acceleration. The 59.6 kWh battery delivers usable range in the region of 400+km, and regenerative braking is adjustable across four levels. What stood out during the drive was the ride quality. The MacPherson front and control blade rear suspension setup absorbed bumps well and gave the VF6 a planted, confidence-inspiring feel — something not every EV manages at this size and price point. The cabin is minimal yet feature rich. A 12.9-inch touchscreen anchors the dashboard, controlling most functions. You get wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, air purification, and even ventilated vegan leather seats with 8-way electric adjustment for the driver. The overall execution feels premium, not just for the segment, but also when compared to some ICE rivals. Safety is well covered: seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, rear cross traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system are all included. VinFast is clearly not cutting corners on tech or safety. VF7: Sharper and stronger The VF7 builds on the VF6's platform and takes things up a notch — both in size and performance. At 4,545 mm long and with a 2,840 mm wheelbase, it enters mid-size SUV territory. The styling is sleeker, and details like the flush door handles, panoramic glass roof, and LED signature lighting elevate its street presence. You get two drivetrain options: a single-motor FWD variant with the same 150 kW/310 Nm setup as the VF6, or a dual-motor AWD version with 260 kW (348 bhp) and 500 Nm of torque. The latter hits 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, and that performance is genuinely felt on the road. Acceleration is immediate, and the AWD system adds a sense of grip and stability, particularly useful for highway stints or wet conditions. Like the VF6, the VF7 uses a dedicated EV platform. Its 70.8 kWh battery promises better range, and it supports 7.2 kW AC charging via a CCS2 port. Cabin insulation is good, and ride quality is polished—on par with what you'd expect from established global brands. Inside, you get similar tech and creature comforts as in the VF6, but the VF7 adds space and a more premium touch. Reclining rear seats, a powered tailgate, and memory functions for the mirrors and seats are thoughtful touches. The ADAS suite is equally comprehensive, with auto lane change assist, adaptive high beam, and door open warning among the features. Challenges and the competitive lens The VF6 and VF7 will enter what is fast becoming a crowded space in India — the compact and mid-size electric SUV segments. These segments are no longer niche, and buyers today are discerning, well-informed, and demanding. They expect their EVs to be more than just green alternatives; they want them to be refined, feature-rich, comfortable, and practical enough to serve as primary vehicles. And on those counts, both the VF6 and VF7 come across as well-rounded machines. Though our experience was limited to the Vinfast factory test track, both vehicles demonstrated a level of chassis maturity, ride comfort, and handling confidence that will likely translate well to Indian driving conditions. Cabin insulation is impressive, build quality is solid, and the tech on board feels well-integrated rather than gimmicky. Practicality too is clearly on VinFast's radar — with usable boot space, roomy interiors, and thoughtful inclusions like drive modes, wireless connectivity, and intuitive interfaces. While the true test will be how these cars behave on Indian roads with local load conditions and varying terrains, the early signs are positive. The driving experience was cohesive — there were no rough edges or incomplete calibrations. Simply put, these are well-engineered EVs that tick the right boxes for modern Indian buyers looking for a balance between sustainability, sophistication, and everyday usability. Of course, competition will be fierce. Brands like Tata and Mahindra already have a strong foothold, with EVs tuned for local preferences and supported by expansive networks. For VinFast, the challenge will be less about proving product strength and more about pricing them wisely, building trust, and executing on after-sales promises. Real-world test awaits From factory floor to tarmac, VinFast has shown that it has the capability to produce high-quality electric vehicles that feel global in execution. The VF6 and VF7, both built on the company's own EV platform, are solid entries into their respective segments—with refined drivetrains, robust safety packages, and contemporary interiors that rival the best in class. But success in India is not just about the product. It is about scale, price, support, and trust. VinFast has a solid foundation to work from, but it now has to deliver on its promises in a market that is both rewarding and unforgiving. The VF6 and VF7 make a strong first impression—well-engineered, feature-rich, and ready for Indian roads. With the right strategy, VinFast could well position itself as a serious new contender in the country's fast-evolving EV landscape. Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram on @motorscribes
The Hindu
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Hindu
VinFast's India strategy will have an entire EV ecosystem, including strong dealership presence in Tier two and three cities
I recently had the opportunity to visit VinFast's headquarters in Hai Phong, Vietnam—a sprawling, vertically integrated manufacturing complex that reflects the company's global ambitions. While there, I experienced the two models that will spearhead VinFast's entry into India: the VF6 and VF7. I also got an inside look at how VinFast builds its cars,how it plans to build its presence in a competitive and complex market like India. Scale, Strategy, and Manufacturing Muscle VinFast's entry into India is a strategic one, and it comes with real investment. The company is setting up a manufacturing facility in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable to 150,000 units annually. With an investment of up to USD 500 million, this is not a soft launch—it is a full-fledged push into what is one of the world's most promising auto markets. The India strategy is not just about assembling cars. VinFast plans to build an entire EV ecosystem — including charging infrastructure, service networks, and a strong dealership presence spanning both metro and Tier 2 and 3 cities. There is also a clear focus on localisation to improve cost efficiency, aligning with India's 'Make in India' initiative. But ambition alone does not guarantee success — especially in a market where Tata Motors and Mahindra have already established themselves with localised EV offerings, extensive networks, and strong consumer trust. This is where VinFast's products will have to do the talking. VF6: Compact, Connected, and Surprisingly Refined Let us start with the VF6. At 4,241 mm in length and with a 2,730 mm wheelbase, it slots into the compact SUV category. But in terms of presence, it punches above its weight. The stance is confident, and design-wise, it manages to look futuristic without being flashy. Under the skin is a 150 kW (201 bhp) motor that drives the front wheels and puts out 310 Nm of torque. The 0–100 km/h time of 8.89 seconds feels adequate for daily commutes, with a linear throttle response and quick off-the-line acceleration. The 59.6 kWh battery delivers usable range in the region of 400+km, and regenerative braking is adjustable across four levels. What stood out to me during the drive was the ride quality. The MacPherson front and control blade rear suspension setup absorbed bumps well and gave the VF6 a planted, confidence-inspiring feel — something not every EV manages at this size and price point. The cabin is minimal yet feature rich. A 12.9-inch touchscreen anchors the dashboard, controlling most functions. You get wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, air purification, and even ventilated vegan leather seats with eight-way electric adjustment for the driver. The overall execution feels premium, not just for the segment, but even compared to some ICE rivals. Safety is well covered: Seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, rear cross traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system are all included. VinFast clearly is not cutting corners on tech or safety. VF7: Sharper, Stronger, and Segment-Up The VF7 builds on the VF6's platform and takes things up a notch—both in size and performance. At 4,545 mm long and with a 2,840 mm wheelbase, it enters mid-size SUV territory. The styling is sleeker, and details like the flush door handles, panoramic glass roof, and LED signature lighting elevate its street presence. You get two drivetrain options: a single-motor FWD variant with the same 150 kW/310 Nm setup as the VF6, or a dual-motor AWD version with 260 kW (348 bhp) and 500 Nm of torque. The latter hits 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, and that performance is genuinely felt on the road. Acceleration is immediate, and the AWD system adds a sense of grip and stability, particularly useful for highway stints or wet conditions. Like the VF6, the VF7 uses a dedicated EV platform. Its 70.8 kWh battery promises better range, and it supports 7.2 kW AC charging via a CCS2 port. Cabin insulation is good, and ride quality is polished—on par with what you would expect from established global brands. Inside, you get similar tech and creature comforts as in the VF6, but the VF7 adds space and a more premium touch. Reclining rear seats, a powered tailgate, and memory functions for the mirrors and seats are thoughtful touches. The ADAS suite is equally comprehensive, with auto lane change assist, adaptive high beam, and door open warning among the features. Challenges and the Competitive Lens The VF6 and VF7 will enter what is fast becoming a crowded space in India—the compact and mid-size electric SUV segments. These segments are no longer niche, and buyers today are discerning, well-informed, and demanding. They expect their EVs to be more than just green alternatives; they want them to be refined, feature-rich, comfortable, and practical enough to serve as primary vehicles. And on those counts, both the VF6 and VF7 come across as well-rounded machines. Though our experience was limited to the Vinfast factory test track, both vehicles demonstrated a level of chassis maturity, ride comfort, and handling confidence that will likely translate well to Indian driving conditions. Cabin insulation is impressive, build quality is solid, and the tech on board feels well-integrated rather than gimmicky. Practicality too is clearly on VinFast's radar—with usable boot space, roomy interiors, and thoughtful inclusions like drive modes, wireless connectivity, and intuitive interfaces. The true test will be how these cars behave on Indian roads with local load conditions and varying terrains. The driving experience was cohesive — there were no rough edges or incomplete calibrations. Simply put, these are well-engineered EVs that tick the right boxes for modern Indian buyers looking for a balance between sustainability, sophistication, and everyday usability. Brands like Tata and Mahindra already have a strong foothold, with EVs tuned for local preferences and supported by expansive networks. For VinFast, the challenge will be less about proving product strength and more about pricing them wisely, building trust, and executing on after-sales promises. Final Thoughts: Impressive Debut, Real-World Test Awaits From factory floor to tarmac, VinFast has shown that it has the capability to produce high-quality electric vehicles that feel global in execution. The VF6 and VF7, both built on the company's own EV platform, are solid entries into their respective segments—with refined drivetrains, robust safety packages, and contemporary interiors that rival the best in class. But success in India is not just about the product. It is about scale, price, support, and trust. VinFast has a solid foundation to work from, but it now has to deliver on its promises in a market that is both rewarding and unforgiving. The VF6 and VF7 make a strong first impression. With the right strategy, VinFast could well position itself as a serious new contender in the country's fast-evolving EV landscape. Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram on @motorscribes
The Advertiser
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe price and specs
UPDATED 08/06/2025 8:00am:We've updated this article, first published in December 2024, with recently announced higher pricing for Santa Fe Hybrid models. The fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe arrived here in 2024 at first with hybrid power, with a petrol engine joining the range in December. From May 1, 2025, hybrid versions have gotten more expensive, with the gap between petrol and hybrid versions growing from $2500 to $4000. Hyundai Australia confirmed the reason for the price increase was to align the Santa Fe with other models from the brand that offer both petrol and hybrid powertrains. Pricing for petrol-powered Santa Fe variants is unchanged, though the XRT option packages are now $1000 more than at launch. 100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. While the Santa Fe's Kia Sorento cousin also offers a turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid four-cylinder powertrain, it sticks with an older 3.5-litre V6 engine as the petrol option, while additionally offering a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four. The Santa Fe, in contrast, features a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, as its base engine. No diesel is available in the latest generation. The turbo-petrol is available across base, Elite and Calligraphy variants like the hybrid, with all-wheel drive available across all. A price-leader front-wheel drive base variant is available at $53,000 before on-road costs, though the Santa Fe range still starts $6950 higher than the previous-generation model. In addition to a lower price and more power than the Santa Fe Hybrid, the petrol-powered Santa Fe also features greater towing capacity (2000kg braked vs 1650kg), though that's still down 500kg on turbo-diesel and V6 petrol versions of the previous-generation Santa Fe. While all Santa Fe models have MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, there's a difference in brake setup between the 2.5T and Hybrid models. 2.5T models have 345mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 305mm x 11mm solid rear discs, while hybrids have 325mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 325mm x 20mm ventilated rear discs. Service pricing is essentially identical between petrol and hybrid variants. 12 months of roadside assist is included, with an additional 12 months each time you service with Hyundai. The Hyundai Santa Fe has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, based on testing conducted in 2024. Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Elite and Calligraphy models also include: There are three trim levels in the Santa Fe range. The base Santa Fe comes standard with the following equipment: The Santa Fe Elite adds: The Santa Fe Calligraphy adds: All Santa Fe models have the Bluelink suite of connected services. These include: A six-seat configuration with power-adjustable second-row captain's chairs is a $500 option on the Calligraphy only. There are a pair of dealer-installed option packages aimed at improving the Santa Fe's off-road ability. The XRT Adventure Option Pack costs $7990 and includes: The XRT Peak Option Pack costs $10,990 and includes all of the above-mentioned equipment, plus: Metallic and mica premium paint finishes are an extra $750, with matte paint a $1000 option. Supersonic Grey, Forest Green and Pecan Brown interior colourways are a $295 option. MORE: Everything Hyundai Santa Fe Content originally sourced from: UPDATED 08/06/2025 8:00am:We've updated this article, first published in December 2024, with recently announced higher pricing for Santa Fe Hybrid models. The fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe arrived here in 2024 at first with hybrid power, with a petrol engine joining the range in December. From May 1, 2025, hybrid versions have gotten more expensive, with the gap between petrol and hybrid versions growing from $2500 to $4000. Hyundai Australia confirmed the reason for the price increase was to align the Santa Fe with other models from the brand that offer both petrol and hybrid powertrains. Pricing for petrol-powered Santa Fe variants is unchanged, though the XRT option packages are now $1000 more than at launch. 100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. While the Santa Fe's Kia Sorento cousin also offers a turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid four-cylinder powertrain, it sticks with an older 3.5-litre V6 engine as the petrol option, while additionally offering a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four. The Santa Fe, in contrast, features a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, as its base engine. No diesel is available in the latest generation. The turbo-petrol is available across base, Elite and Calligraphy variants like the hybrid, with all-wheel drive available across all. A price-leader front-wheel drive base variant is available at $53,000 before on-road costs, though the Santa Fe range still starts $6950 higher than the previous-generation model. In addition to a lower price and more power than the Santa Fe Hybrid, the petrol-powered Santa Fe also features greater towing capacity (2000kg braked vs 1650kg), though that's still down 500kg on turbo-diesel and V6 petrol versions of the previous-generation Santa Fe. While all Santa Fe models have MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, there's a difference in brake setup between the 2.5T and Hybrid models. 2.5T models have 345mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 305mm x 11mm solid rear discs, while hybrids have 325mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 325mm x 20mm ventilated rear discs. Service pricing is essentially identical between petrol and hybrid variants. 12 months of roadside assist is included, with an additional 12 months each time you service with Hyundai. The Hyundai Santa Fe has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, based on testing conducted in 2024. Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Elite and Calligraphy models also include: There are three trim levels in the Santa Fe range. The base Santa Fe comes standard with the following equipment: The Santa Fe Elite adds: The Santa Fe Calligraphy adds: All Santa Fe models have the Bluelink suite of connected services. These include: A six-seat configuration with power-adjustable second-row captain's chairs is a $500 option on the Calligraphy only. There are a pair of dealer-installed option packages aimed at improving the Santa Fe's off-road ability. The XRT Adventure Option Pack costs $7990 and includes: The XRT Peak Option Pack costs $10,990 and includes all of the above-mentioned equipment, plus: Metallic and mica premium paint finishes are an extra $750, with matte paint a $1000 option. Supersonic Grey, Forest Green and Pecan Brown interior colourways are a $295 option. MORE: Everything Hyundai Santa Fe Content originally sourced from: UPDATED 08/06/2025 8:00am:We've updated this article, first published in December 2024, with recently announced higher pricing for Santa Fe Hybrid models. The fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe arrived here in 2024 at first with hybrid power, with a petrol engine joining the range in December. From May 1, 2025, hybrid versions have gotten more expensive, with the gap between petrol and hybrid versions growing from $2500 to $4000. Hyundai Australia confirmed the reason for the price increase was to align the Santa Fe with other models from the brand that offer both petrol and hybrid powertrains. Pricing for petrol-powered Santa Fe variants is unchanged, though the XRT option packages are now $1000 more than at launch. 100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. While the Santa Fe's Kia Sorento cousin also offers a turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid four-cylinder powertrain, it sticks with an older 3.5-litre V6 engine as the petrol option, while additionally offering a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four. The Santa Fe, in contrast, features a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, as its base engine. No diesel is available in the latest generation. The turbo-petrol is available across base, Elite and Calligraphy variants like the hybrid, with all-wheel drive available across all. A price-leader front-wheel drive base variant is available at $53,000 before on-road costs, though the Santa Fe range still starts $6950 higher than the previous-generation model. In addition to a lower price and more power than the Santa Fe Hybrid, the petrol-powered Santa Fe also features greater towing capacity (2000kg braked vs 1650kg), though that's still down 500kg on turbo-diesel and V6 petrol versions of the previous-generation Santa Fe. While all Santa Fe models have MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, there's a difference in brake setup between the 2.5T and Hybrid models. 2.5T models have 345mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 305mm x 11mm solid rear discs, while hybrids have 325mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 325mm x 20mm ventilated rear discs. Service pricing is essentially identical between petrol and hybrid variants. 12 months of roadside assist is included, with an additional 12 months each time you service with Hyundai. The Hyundai Santa Fe has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, based on testing conducted in 2024. Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Elite and Calligraphy models also include: There are three trim levels in the Santa Fe range. The base Santa Fe comes standard with the following equipment: The Santa Fe Elite adds: The Santa Fe Calligraphy adds: All Santa Fe models have the Bluelink suite of connected services. These include: A six-seat configuration with power-adjustable second-row captain's chairs is a $500 option on the Calligraphy only. There are a pair of dealer-installed option packages aimed at improving the Santa Fe's off-road ability. The XRT Adventure Option Pack costs $7990 and includes: The XRT Peak Option Pack costs $10,990 and includes all of the above-mentioned equipment, plus: Metallic and mica premium paint finishes are an extra $750, with matte paint a $1000 option. Supersonic Grey, Forest Green and Pecan Brown interior colourways are a $295 option. MORE: Everything Hyundai Santa Fe Content originally sourced from: UPDATED 08/06/2025 8:00am:We've updated this article, first published in December 2024, with recently announced higher pricing for Santa Fe Hybrid models. The fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe arrived here in 2024 at first with hybrid power, with a petrol engine joining the range in December. From May 1, 2025, hybrid versions have gotten more expensive, with the gap between petrol and hybrid versions growing from $2500 to $4000. Hyundai Australia confirmed the reason for the price increase was to align the Santa Fe with other models from the brand that offer both petrol and hybrid powertrains. Pricing for petrol-powered Santa Fe variants is unchanged, though the XRT option packages are now $1000 more than at launch. 100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. While the Santa Fe's Kia Sorento cousin also offers a turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid four-cylinder powertrain, it sticks with an older 3.5-litre V6 engine as the petrol option, while additionally offering a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four. The Santa Fe, in contrast, features a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, as its base engine. No diesel is available in the latest generation. The turbo-petrol is available across base, Elite and Calligraphy variants like the hybrid, with all-wheel drive available across all. A price-leader front-wheel drive base variant is available at $53,000 before on-road costs, though the Santa Fe range still starts $6950 higher than the previous-generation model. In addition to a lower price and more power than the Santa Fe Hybrid, the petrol-powered Santa Fe also features greater towing capacity (2000kg braked vs 1650kg), though that's still down 500kg on turbo-diesel and V6 petrol versions of the previous-generation Santa Fe. While all Santa Fe models have MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, there's a difference in brake setup between the 2.5T and Hybrid models. 2.5T models have 345mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 305mm x 11mm solid rear discs, while hybrids have 325mm x 30mm ventilated front discs and 325mm x 20mm ventilated rear discs. Service pricing is essentially identical between petrol and hybrid variants. 12 months of roadside assist is included, with an additional 12 months each time you service with Hyundai. The Hyundai Santa Fe has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, based on testing conducted in 2024. Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Elite and Calligraphy models also include: There are three trim levels in the Santa Fe range. The base Santa Fe comes standard with the following equipment: The Santa Fe Elite adds: The Santa Fe Calligraphy adds: All Santa Fe models have the Bluelink suite of connected services. These include: A six-seat configuration with power-adjustable second-row captain's chairs is a $500 option on the Calligraphy only. There are a pair of dealer-installed option packages aimed at improving the Santa Fe's off-road ability. The XRT Adventure Option Pack costs $7990 and includes: The XRT Peak Option Pack costs $10,990 and includes all of the above-mentioned equipment, plus: Metallic and mica premium paint finishes are an extra $750, with matte paint a $1000 option. Supersonic Grey, Forest Green and Pecan Brown interior colourways are a $295 option. MORE: Everything Hyundai Santa Fe Content originally sourced from:
NZ Autocar
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
2025 KIA EV3 Light Review
If there is a brand that doesn't seem to put a foot wrong lately it is Kia. Not content with doing very well in the 'traditional' vehicle space with a solid range of competent and interesting enough models in most segments, it has simply outdone every other brand in the market on the breadth of its EV offerings. And it now has a new, small(ish) offering in the form of the EV3. We've been driving the Light LR 2WD, the second model up the ladder and probably the one that'll suit the most buyers. It pairs the long-range battery with a relatively basic trim – not fancy, but not stripped out either – and comes in at $62,990 before any deals. So, what's it like to live with? Turns out, pretty easy. At 4.3m long and riding on 17-inch wheels, the EV3 slots neatly into the compact SUV category, but Kia's done a solid job of stretching the space inside. It genuinely feels bigger than it looks. There's good visibility, a nice upright seating position, and a dash layout that doesn't try too hard. The vibe is light, clean and calm. Materials lean toward the durable and sustainable. Expect some hard plastics but they're offset by a sense of quality. The twin 12.3-inch screens across the dash join up to form a wide slab of info and control and there's an extra five-inch touch panel for HVAC settings. There is also plenty of storage in the front, with a large tub/tray between the seats and decent sized door pockets. A small design line running through the dash looks like it can hold small items, but really can't. The rear seat space is generous, though not class-leading. Adults will fit but knees may brush the front seatbacks if everyone's tall. The boot, though, is a decent 460 litres, with a smart double-floor set-up and a bonus 25-litre frunk up front. The real surprise comes once you get moving. With an 81.4kWh NCM battery under the floor and a 150kW/283Nm motor up front, you'd expect the EV3 to feel heavy. But it doesn't. That battery chemistry pays off with lower weight, and the EV3 feels far more agile than its spec sheet suggests. Kia's done some good work here. The car feels light on its feet, with quick steering and tidy body control. The MacPherson front and multi-link rear suspension combo helps keep things settled and while it's no hot hatch, it's happy on a winding road. Kia's selective frequency dampers (shared with the EV9) seem to do the job. Acceleration is smooth rather than punchy (0–100km/h in 7.7 seconds) but it's quick enough for anything New Zealand traffic can throw at it. There's a full set of regen modes via steering paddles, including a proper one-pedal setting that works well in stop-start. There's a simplicity to the EV3 that makes it easy to live with. The column-mounted shifter is intuitive and out of the way. The Kia Connect app means you can pre-condition the cabin, check the charge status or even lock and unlock it remotely. Handy stuff if it's a shared family vehicle or you simply hate cooking inside after a trip to the beach. Range? Officially up to 605km WLTP. Real-world? More like 500–550km depending on how and where you're driving. That's still seriously useful for a city-sized SUV. And the range estimate in the cluster is one of the more accurate we've seen. Charging is also fuss-free. Plug into a 128kW DC charger and you'll see 10–80 per cent in around 31 minutes. At home on an 11kW wallbox, expect around seven hours for a full charge, which suits overnight top-ups perfectly. One niggle (and it's a personal one) is the start button. It is not in a great position, at the base of the shifter and in a car with this much tech, it seems like the kind of thing that should've been phased out by now. Why not just get in and go? As the 'Light' spec name implies, this isn't the flashiest EV3. You miss out on things like heated seats, power adjustment and some of the advanced aids found in the Earth and GT-Line models. The biggest items we miss are wireless charging and a powered tailgate. But the basics are all there. Forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise, high beam assist, parking sensors and a reversing camera are standard. So is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, albeit still wired, and four USB-C ports for devices. It's worth noting the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability is standard across the range too – both inside (via a three-pin socket in the back) and externally with the included adapter. Whether you're inflating a paddleboard, boiling a jug or powering tools, it's handy and becoming a must-have on new EVs. Kia wants the EV3 to be more than a 'starter EV,' and it mostly succeeds. The build quality is solid, the ride and refinement are excellent and the range is downright greedy. It feels more mature than the average small SUV, yet it's not trying to be something it's not. No gimmicks, no weird seats, no intrusive noises. Just a sorted, approachable EV. If you want more bling or kit, the Earth and GT-Line models are there. But honestly? The Light LR does nearly everything right and you'll have money left in your pocket. Can you get more for less with other brands? Potentially, but buttonless tech rocketships or vehicles from entirely new brands simply aren't for everyone. The EV3 Light LR isn't exciting in a headline-grabbing sense but drive it, live with it and you quickly realise it doesn't need to be. Kia's quietly nailed the brief here: give people a practical, efficient, easy-to-drive EV that doesn't overwhelm with tech or drain the wallet. For drivers wanting something compact yet capable, modern but not overcomplicated, this could be the sweet spot of the Kia EV range. And as small SUVs go, EV or otherwise, it sets a high bar. EV3 Light LR 2WD$62,220 / 14.9kWh/100km / 0g/km 0-100 km/h 7.7s Motor output 150kW Max torque 283Nm Battery 81.4kWh Range 605km Drivetrain Single-speed auto / FWD Front suspension Mac strut / swaybar Rear suspension Multilink / swaybar Turning circle 10.4m (2.5 turns) Front brakes Ventilated discs (305mm) Rear brakes Discs (300mm) Stability systems ABS, ESP, TV Safety AEB, ACC, BSM, LDW, RCTA, ALK, AHB Tyre size f/r-215/50R19 Wheelbase 2680mm L/W/H 4300 / 1850 / 1560mm Track f-1620mm r-1611mm Luggage capacity f-25L r-460-1251L Tow rating 750kg (1000kg braked) Service intervals 12months/15,000km Warranty 5yrs / 150,000 km ANCAP rating Not yet rated Weight (claimed) 1930kg
Scotsman
07-06-2025
- Scotsman
Body found in search for missing hiker on Isle of Skye
A formal identification has not been made Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... A body has been found in the search for a missing walker who vanished on the Isle of Skye. Roddy MacPherson, 67, was reported missing on Wednesday and his family have been informed. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad He was last seen on Monday outside Sligachan Hotel, walking in the direction of the Sligachan Bridge, and has not been heard from since. Mr MacPherson was described as an 'experienced walker' in an appeal by Police Scotland. On Friday afternoon, the body of a man was traced by police and local mountain rescue teams on Cuillins. There would appear to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal. Formal identification has yet to be made. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Mr MacPherson was seen walking in the direction of the Sligachan Bridge on Monday. A spokesperson for Skye mountain rescue team (MRT) said: 'Extensive searches were carried out, mainly focusing on the Red Hills and parts of the Northern Cuillin. On Thursday, thanks to helpful information from a local guide, efforts shifted to the area around Bruach na Frithe. 'Around midday on Friday, with improved weather and cloudless tops, a body was sighted on a grassy ledge high on the cliffs between Harta and Lota Corries. It was immediately clear that lowering the casualty to safety would be long and technically demanding. 'A team member was lowered to a position above and confirmed there were no signs of life, and that significantly more equipment would be needed. Fortunately, Stornoway Coastguard helicopter R948 was able to return and carry out a direct lift from the ledge — an incredible effort and a huge relief. 'The helicopter later returned multiple times to help extract the teams and equipment back to Sligachan. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Skye MRT contributed over 350 hours to this search — not including the time and effort given by Police Scotland (N division), Royal Air Force mountain rescue service, Kintail mountain rescue, Glenelg mountain rescue, Search and Rescue Dog Association Scotland, local Coastguard teams including HM Coastguard – Portree, Isle of Skye, and helicopter crews of R948 and R951. 'Our sincere thanks to all involved. Thanks also to the Sligachan Hotel for feeding and supporting us on Wednesday night and Thursday.
