KIA has shown off the smallest EV ever built, proving that dynamite truly does come in small packages after all. The Korean automaker has launched several popular models in the past, and this year, its smallest EV ever will feature a “star map” showing design constellations. The automaker became a major global automotive achiever in 2025, securing a spot among the top ten top-selling brands. Will this latest EV contribute to the automaker’s successes in 2026, perhaps even help KIA to move up in the ranks? Let’s find out.
Continuing the line of success
KIA has proven its dominant hold over key markets such as the U.S. and India in 2025, as some of its most popular models typically feature some of the most sought-after characteristics, which include:
- Sleek and aesthetic designs
- Top rank reliability and quality
- Advanced, high-end electric features and performance
- Including ‘exclusive’ features in its standard models with no additional charge
- Affordability
According to a report by Driving, the top five KIA cars from 2025 include:
- KIA EV9
- KIA Telluride
- KIA EV6
- KIA Sorento
- KIA Carnival
Five categories were used to determine the top-rated KIA cars, namely: warranty, power, safety, efficiency, and cargo space. Now, another KIA model has caught the world’s attention in particular, as it’s not only the smallest EV ever built but showcases some very unique features, such as its “star map” lighting.
KIA shows smallest EV ever built
KIA stunned the world after the early preview of the KIA Seltos in 2025. Now, its smallest and most affordable EV ever will be launched soon. This model is called the KIA EV2, and if 2025 is any indication, it will undoubtedly be popular. During an interview with Auto Express in 2025, Song Ho-Song, the CEO and President of KIA, announced plans to launch the KIA EV2 in early 2026.
The EV’s concept design already piqued the interest of thousands after making its debut at the annual KIA EV Day in early 2025. The automaker’s design boss, Karim Habib, also informed Auto Express that:
“It is still a concept car, but a lot of it you will see. You can take the example of the EV3 or EV4, which we showed you years ago as concepts….the delta between production car and show car is exactly the same.”
From outstanding performance to unique features
According to KIA’s website, the EV2 will embody “the spirit of innovation and adventure.” Design-wise, fans can expect the ‘Opposites United’ design, which was also featured on the automaker’s other latest EVs, as well as the unique Star Map daytime lighting (DRLs). Its structure will be smaller, more upright like an SUV, and have sleek, modern lines. It will also have a more minimalist layout.
Other features to look forward to
- Standard models will boast 113 HP
- GT versions will boast over 300 HP
- Folding rear bench
- The front bench can slide back
- Foldable second-row seats
- Interior made from sustainable materials
- Rear-hinged back doors
- Vehicle-to-Load charging
- Over-the-Air updates
- 400V architecture
The price for this unique urban EV will reportedly start at approximately $35,000, which is a little more affordable compared to the Kia EV3. The production model of the EV2 may be released during the upcoming Brussels Motor Show between 9 and 8 January, so fingers crossed!
The Korean automaker also reportedly plans to release another EV model, which will be even smaller and more affordable than the EV2. This specific model will then be utilised as the base model for all its electric cars going forward. Excitement is growing by the day as we await to see what lies ahead for the industry for the rest of the year, especially as competition between automakers becomes tougher. In 2025, KIA also tested a brand-new engine. Time will tell whether this engine will be featured in its upcoming models.