Kia chose the 2026 Brussels Motor Show as the world premiere venue for the Kia EV2. The decision reflects the development goal of a compact SUV aimed at the European market. Kia unveiled the EV2 for the first time in the world at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show held at Brussels Expo in Belgium on Friday, the 9th local time.
The EV2 is Kia's sixth dedicated electric vehicle, optimized for urban driving with distinctive design, interior space and convenience features that exceed its class, positioning itself as the vanguard of the compact (global B-segment) electrified SUV market.
Based on compact dimensions of 4,060 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width and 1,575 mm in height, the EV2 applies Kia's design philosophy "Opposites United" to complete a solid yet modern SUV image.
The front end's smoothly finished hood and bumper emphasizing volume give a strong presence in the city, while vertical headlamps placed at the outer edges and the starmap signature lighting create a confident and refined impression. The starmap signature lighting harmonizes with a body-colored panel that replaces the grille of internal combustion vehicles to implement an evolved form of the "tiger face."
The side expresses a confident image with a three-dimensional shoulder line, and features such as auto flush door handles, geometric wheel arches and a robust fender design combine to emphasize a tough yet refined image. The rear has tail lamps with three-dimensional and finely finished surfaces positioned at the body edges, adding a fresh sensibility and making the body appear wider.
The interior is designed as a simple, emotional and practical space based on the "picnic box" concept. Centered on a wraparound crash pad, a panoramic wide display integrates a 12.3-inch cluster, 5-inch climate control display and 12.3-inch infotainment system in a cohesive layout, and horizontal air vents and physical buttons create a visually wider and more relaxed interior. Mood lighting that crosses the crash pad naturally continues to the first-row door trims to add comfort, and, linked with the turn signals, provides intuitive information to the driver, realizing a harmony of modern design and function.
The EV2 GT line strengthens a bold and modern impression with differentiated design features such as a dedicated bumper with body-colored garnish, 19-inch dedicated wheels, black high-gloss door frame molding and beltline. The interior uses a contrast of dark gray and off-white to create a more luxurious and dynamic atmosphere.
With a 61.0 kWh battery in the long-range model, the EV2 can travel up to about 448 km on a single charge (※ 16-inch wheels, WLTP laboratory measurement), and the "EV route planner" function guides optimal charging-station route stops so long-distance driving can be undertaken with confidence. Fast charging from 10% to 80% takes 30 minutes for the long-range model and 29 minutes for the standard model (※ internal laboratory measurement), and it supports 11 kW and 22 kW slow charging while offering "Plug and Charge (PnC)" functionality for automatic authentication and payment when the charging cable is connected, providing an easy and convenient charging experience.
Kia also equipped the EV2 with a high-output column-mounted electric power steering (C-MDPS) and optimized the steering gear ratio to deliver agile handling in narrow alleys and complex intersections, and applied hydro bushings to the rear coupled torsion beam axle to minimize impacts from speed bumps and road irregularities.
It also includes advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) at a higher-class level—forward collision-avoidance assist (including intersections and oncoming vehicles), steering wheel grip detection (HoD, Hands On Detection), lane keeping assist 2, highway driving assist 2, remote smart parking assist, and an in-cabin monitoring unit (ICMU)—to support safe and convenient driving. The ICMU is a system that uses a camera embedded in the rearview mirror to detect passenger conditions in real time to warn against distracted driving and enhance passenger safety by linking with passenger protection devices such as seat belts and airbags in collision situations.
In addition, measures such as minimizing the A-pillar width and lowering the tailgate glass design increase openness and secure front and rear visibility so that novice drivers can drive safely and without burden.
▲User-centered variety of convenience features provided
The EV2 is configured to provide differentiated habitability and convenience by allowing flexible and practical use of an interior and luggage space that is among the largest in its class.
Kia applied a column-type shift-by-wire (SBW) electronic shifter to the EV2 to secure ample storage space in the floor console, and added a sliding function to the second-row seats to expand rear legroom from a standard 885 mm to a maximum 958 mm. The rear space also offers a generous 973 mm headroom and a reclining function so even tall adults can ride comfortably.
The luggage space expands from a standard 362 liters (VDA) to a maximum 1,201 liters with the second row folded, and with a wide 1,094 mm trunk opening and a class-first 15-liter frunk, it can efficiently store large items as well as small personal belongings.
The EV2 is equipped with various advanced convenience and infotainment features that stimulate customers' sensibilities.
Before boarding, the EV2 greets the driver with a "HELLO=)" welcome message visible beyond the driver's window, and when exiting, it offers an interactive experience with a "HAVE A NICE DAY" message displayed inside the door handle. A Harman Kardon premium sound system is offered as an option to deliver high-quality audio experiences, and various display themes—Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars™ and National Geographic—are available for purchase or subscription at the Kia Connect store, along with music streaming and a "pet mode" for companion animals, supporting relaxation, work and hobbies inside the vehicle through diverse functions.
Kia also bolstered product competitiveness by applying the latest connectivity specifications to the EV2, including interior and exterior V2L (vehicle to load), a 100W USB-C charging port, Kia AI assistant, digital key 2, and wireless software updates (OTA).
Kia president Song Ho-sung said, "The EV2 is the most compact among Kia's dedicated electric vehicles while offering the most vivid interior experience and emotional design," and noted, "With space that transcends its class and differentiated user experiences, it will lead electric vehicle popularization."
At the 2026 Brussels Motor Show, Kia newly unveiled the EV3 GT, EV4 5-door GT and EV5 GT, and plans to reveal detailed product specifications for the EV3 GT, EV4 4-door GT and EV5 GT and launch them in the domestic market in the first half. From Jan. 10 to 18, the general public days of the 2026 Brussels Motor Show, Kia will exhibit 19 electrified models including the EV2 and EV2 GT line, EV3, EV4, EV5, EV9 and PV5 in an exhibition space of approximately 1,401 m2 (423 pyeong).
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