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Volvo EX40 vs Kia EV3 comparison

Compare performance (442 HP vs 265 HP), boot space and price (45,200 £ vs 40,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Volvo EX40 or Kia EV3?

Volvo EX40 vs Kia EV3: Key differences

Volvo EX40

4.5 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly more power
  • only slightly more electric range
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
details

Kia EV3

4.4 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat cheaper
  • only slightly more efficient
  • very slightly lighter
  • barely more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

EX40

Head-to-head: Kia EV3 VS Volvo EX40 — compact electric crossover comparison

The Kia EV3 and the Volvo EX40 go head-to-head in this compact electric crossover comparison: welcome to the Kia EV3 VS Volvo EX40 page. If you’re hunting for a practical electric crossover or a premium compact EV, this duel is where real-world priorities meet showroom promises. We’ll run through character, daily usability and the kind of drivers each car will actually suit rather than drowning you in spreadsheets. The Kia EV3 and the Volvo EX40 may share the same EV category but they speak very different languages — economy and urban cleverness versus composure and refinement. Think of this as a buyer-focused roadmap to decide which personality fits your driveway.

EV3

Two attitudes on four wheels

On one side the Kia EV3 feels intentionally down-to-earth: light-footed, efficient and designed to disappear into city life. On the other, the Volvo EX40 projects a quieter kind of confidence — more composed ride, a premium interior vibe and a tech-forward presence that says "this is deliberate." Where the Kia trades flash for friendly pragmatism, the Volvo leans into substance and a sense of occasion. That contrast is obvious the moment you open the doors: the Kia EV3 is cheerful and accessible; the Volvo EX40 is measured and tidy. Both are modern EVs, but their characters appeal to very different sensibilities.

EX40

How they fit into daily life

For daily life the Kia EV3 is happiest in the city — easy to park, forgiving on short hops and built around economical use. The Volvo EX40 shines on longer spells behind the wheel, promising composure on motorways and a cabin that keeps passengers pleasantly cocooned. Families with regular luggage or active weekend plans will notice the Volvo’s tendency to feel a touch more grown-up and secure for distance driving. Conversely, urban commuters and those who prize straightforward, low-cost running will find the Kia’s packaging and user-friendly setup more useful day to day. Neither is a one-trick pony, but how you split time between city streets and long runs will decide which one feels right.

EV3

Buying it for pride or purpose?

Choosing the Kia EV3 often comes down to sensible justification: it’s an easy-to-own EV that doesn’t ask much from you. Buying the Volvo EX40 is as much about the image as the experience — a quieter, more premium statement that reassures on comfort and safety. If you want your car to be a low-drama tool, the Kia lets the numbers and practicality do the talking. If you prefer your car to underline taste and a bit of status while delivering a composed ride, the Volvo answers in kind. Neither choice is purely rational or purely emotional; it’s about which compromise you’re willing to live with every morning.

EX40

Who should lean toward the Kia EV3?

If you’re a value-conscious commuter who measures choices by ease of ownership, running costs and clever space use, the Kia EV3 reads like a practical manifesto. It’s aimed at people who prefer straightforward tech, simple ergonomics and a car that performs its homework without fuss. Think sensible trips to work, school runs and tight-city parking as core strengths, not afterthoughts. For these buyers the Kia’s balance of usability and thrift is the kind of assurance that just makes life easier.

EV3

Who should favor the Volvo EX40 — and where the Kia still tempts

If your buying checklist starts with cabin calm, brand aura and a premium feel, the Volvo EX40 is the more natural fit. It suits drivers who care about a refined ride, neat materials and the sort of presence that turns mundane journeys into something a little more civilized. Status-conscious buyers who want their car to signal taste and safety will prefer the Volvo’s personality, while technically minded owners will appreciate its modern systems. That said, the Kia EV3 remains the smarter pick for anyone who prefers to spend less and get a very usable EV without ceremony. Scroll down to the technical delta when you’re ready for the hard numbers — they’ll tell you exactly where these practical and premium choices diverge.

Frequently compared as well

Kia EV3
Kia EV2
VS
The Kia EV3 and Kia EV2 are two compact electric models from Kia that target different priorities — the EV3 leans toward longer range and richer equipment, while the EV2 focuses on affordability and city-friendly dimensions. This comparison will highlight the key differences in range, performance, …
Kia EV3
Subaru Uncharted
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The Kia EV3 and the Subaru Uncharted represent two different takes on the new-generation compact EV: Kia leans toward efficient, value-packed urban versatility while Subaru aims for rugged, outdoors-ready capability. This quick comparison will help you decide whether you want a tidy city runabout …

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

EX40

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Kia EV3 is somewhat cheaper – starting at 40,200 £ , while the Volvo EX40 costs 45,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,066 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the Kia EV3 is only slightly more efficient: consuming 15.8 kWh/100km compared to 16.6 kWh/100km for the Volvo EX40. That’s a difference of about 0.8 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Volvo EX40 offers only slightly more range – reaching up to 576 km, about 4 km more than the Kia EV3.

EV3

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Volvo EX40 offers clearly more power – delivering 442 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 177 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Volvo EX40 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.6 s, while the Kia EV3 takes 6.6 s. That’s about 2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Volvo EX40 delivers substantially more torque with 670 Nm compared to 385 Nm. That’s about 285 Nm more.

EX40

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Kia EV3 is very slightly lighter – 1,995 kg compared to 2,040 kg. The difference is around 45 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Kia EV3 offers barely more boot space – 413 L compared to 410 L. That’s a difference of about 3 L.

When it comes to payload, the Kia EV3 carries very slightly more – 485 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 5 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Volvo EX40 is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £45,200
EX40

Volvo EX40

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 238 - 442 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 16.6 - 17.6 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 477 - 576 km
details
Volvo EX40
Kia EV3

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Volvo EX40

The Volvo EX40 is a compact electric SUV that blends Scandinavian minimalism with a comfortable, high-quality interior suited to daily driving and longer trips. It prioritizes safety and intuitive technology, delivering a calm, refined experience that feels mature and easy to live with.

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Reviews Volvo EX40

4.5 (3 Reviews)
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Marco
24 Jun 2026, 10:14:05

I find them to be two models that aren't comparable,
the Model Y is much longer and wider.
I would choose the Model Y if it were within 4.50 meters in length.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Bent
16 May 2026, 19:14:01

Stable car and generally good build quality — but I hate the Google and infotainment systems, which both seem designed to irritate the user as much as possible.
I'm looking at a Toyota B4ZX AWD when the lease on my EX40 expires. I need to be able to tow 1,500 kg, but without going broke.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 is a stylish, user-friendly electric crossover that focuses on practicality and a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It delivers a comfortable ride with intuitive technology and efficient everyday performance, making it a sensible choice for city and family use.

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Reviews Kia EV3

4.4 (6 Reviews)
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Werner Wesselbaum
22 Jul 2026, 06:43:05

The Kia EV3 is the modern car. It offers an optional 22 kW charger for people who can’t charge at home — only a few manufacturers think of that, really a shame.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
pedro
8 May 2026, 11:01:53

Aesthetically it seems nicer to me, and I think it's better soundproofed.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
José
24 Dec 2025, 17:42:54

A good car for a small family. Easy and practical.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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Volvo EX40
Volvo EX60
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Volvo’s EX40 and EX60 lock horns in a neatly staged duel: the nimble EX40 is a city-savvy, efficiency-first EV built for tight streets and savvy budgets, while the larger EX60 brings more space, stronger performance and longer range for family life and weekend escapes. Pick this showdown for a …
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This comparison looks at the Kia EV3 vs the Kia EV5 to help you decide which electric crossover better fits your daily needs and budget. The EV3 leans toward compact, city-friendly efficiency and value, while the EV5 offers more interior space, stronger performance and extra tech for buyers who …
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Skoda Elroq
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The Volvo EX40 and Skoda Elroq offer contemporary takes on the small SUV segment, but they aim at different buyers — Volvo leans toward premium refinement while Skoda focuses on pragmatic value and space. This comparison will look at driving character, interior practicality, technology and running …
Audi Q4 e-tron
Volvo EX40
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Comparing the Audi Q4 e-tron and the Volvo EX40 pits two compact premium electric SUVs against each other: the Q4 e-tron brings Audi’s refined driving dynamics and a traditionally upscale cabin, while the EX40 focuses on minimalist Scandinavian design, safety, and efficiency. Choose the Q4 for a …
Volvo EX40
Kia EV3

Costs and Consumption
Price
45,200 - 56,000 £
Price
40,200 - 43,900 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
16.6 - 17.6 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 kWh/100km
Electric Range
477 - 576 km
Electric Range
572 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
2,040 - 2,170 kg
Curb weight
1,995 kg
Trunk capacity
410 L
Trunk capacity
413 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,863 mm
Width
1,850 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
430 - 480 kg
Payload
485 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
238 - 442 HP
Power HP
265 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.3 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.6 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
420 - 670 Nm
Torque
385 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
175 - 325 kW
Power kW
195 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Volvo
Brand
Kia
What drivetrain options does the Volvo EX40 have?

The Volvo EX40 is available as Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.