Kia is preparing a major mid-cycle update for its popular compact electric SUV, the Kia EV3, and the first facelift prototypes have already been spotted testing. Although the EV3 has only recently entered major global markets, Kia is moving quickly to improve the model with better battery technology, improved software, stronger reliability, and enhanced driving capability.

The upcoming Kia EV3 facelift is expected to debut in late 2027 and could arrive as a 2028 model in several international markets, including the United States. One of the biggest highlights will be the arrival of Hyundai Motor Group’s next-generation Pleos Connect infotainment system along with a long-awaited hardware-level fix for the ICCU issue that affected many E-GMP platform EV owners.

Along with this, Kia is also expanding the EV3 lineup with a new AWD version offering more power, better towing capacity, and improved performance.

Here is everything we know so far about the upcoming Kia EV3 facelift.

Kia EV3 Facelift Design: Familiar Look with Smart Improvements

The first test prototypes show that the overall design of the Kia EV3 facelift will remain largely unchanged. Kia appears to be focusing more on mechanical upgrades and digital improvements rather than a full exterior redesign.

The EV3 will continue to follow Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy with futuristic styling and strong road presence.

Expected Exterior Highlights

• Signature upright SUV stance
• Sharp front fascia
• Sleek LED daytime running lights
• Bold geometric body lines
• Short overhang design
• 17-inch to 19-inch alloy wheels
• Flush aerodynamic styling
• Glass sunroof (higher trims)
• Sportier GT-Line and GT versions

Rather than a visual revolution, the facelift is expected to deliver meaningful upgrades under the skin.

Pleos Connect: Next-Generation Infotainment System

One of the biggest cabin upgrades will be the introduction of:

Pleos Connect

This is Hyundai Motor Group’s next-generation infotainment platform based on Android Automotive OS (AAOS).

It is designed to offer a much smoother and smarter digital experience compared to the current system.

Improvements with Pleos Connect

Better User Interface

• Smartphone-like smooth navigation
• Customizable widgets
• Faster response times

Improved Connectivity

• Native Google Maps support
• Built-in Spotify
• No need for phone-based apps all the time

Smarter Voice Assistant

• Enhanced voice recognition
• GLeo AI assistant
• Better natural language understanding

Faster OTA Updates

• Over-the-Air updates for
  • motor mapping
  • battery management
  • safety systems
  • infotainment upgrades

This will make the EV3 feel more future-ready and premium.

ICCU Fix: Solving the Major Charging Issue

One of the most important upgrades expected in the facelift is the permanent fix for the:

ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit)

This issue had affected several E-GMP platform vehicles and caused:

• 12V battery drain
• Charging failures
• Complete vehicle immobilization in some cases

For the facelift, Kia is expected to introduce a proper hardware-level solution instead of software-only patches.

New ICCU Hardware Fix Includes

Enhanced Thermal Management

Better cooling will prevent overheating during heavy Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) usage.

Redesigned Capacitors

Improved components will handle voltage spikes more effectively.

Higher Reliability

Kia’s confidence is reflected in the new:

15-year / 300,000 km ICCU warranty extension

in selected global markets.

This could significantly improve customer trust and long-term ownership experience.

Bigger Battery and Improved Driving Range

The current Kia EV3 is offered with:

• 58.3 kWh battery
• 81.4 kWh battery

The facelift is expected to adopt Hyundai Motor Group’s:

Gen 4 Battery Technology

This may improve battery energy density by around:

10%

without increasing physical battery size.

Long Range Battery Upgrade

The larger battery could increase toward:

84 kWh

similar to the updated Kia EV6.

Expected Range

The top-spec model may offer:

600+ km WLTP range

which would make it one of the strongest range figures in the compact EV SUV segment.

Higher energy density also means:

• lighter battery pack
• better efficiency
• improved handling
• reduced energy consumption

Kia EV3 AWD: More Power and Better Performance

Kia has also introduced a new AWD version of the EV3, giving the compact SUV stronger performance and improved practicality.

Power Output

The AWD version produces:

195 kW (261 hp)

compared to:

150 kW in FWD models

This is achieved by adding:

• rear electric motor (45 kW)

Performance

0–100 km/h

• AWD: 6.6 seconds
• FWD: 7.9 seconds

Top Speed

• 170 km/h (all versions)

This makes the EV3 AWD significantly quicker and more capable.

Battery and Charging for AWD Version

The AWD version comes standard with:

81.4 kWh Battery Pack

WLTP Range

Up to:

597 km

Fast Charging

10–80% charging

in around:

30–31 minutes

under ideal DC fast charging conditions.

New 22kW AC Charger Option

Kia is also offering a:

22kW AC Charger

as an optional upgrade from the “Earth” trim level.

This helps reduce charging time significantly.

Charging Time

For 81.4kWh battery:

• Under 4 hours (22kW AC charger)

Compared to:

• 7+ hours (11kW standard charger)

This is a major practical upgrade for daily use.

Better Towing Capacity

Another major benefit of the AWD version is improved towing capability.

Towing Capacity

Up to 1.5 tons

which is nearly double compared to the FWD version.

This makes the EV3 AWD much more useful for active lifestyle buyers.

Final Verdict

The Kia EV3 facelift is shaping up to be much more than a cosmetic refresh. With Pleos Connect, a proper ICCU hardware fix, Gen 4 battery technology, better range, and the new AWD version, Kia is addressing real customer concerns while improving overall performance and ownership experience.

The compact EV SUV segment is becoming highly competitive, and these upgrades could help the EV3 remain one of the strongest options for buyers looking for premium features, long driving range, strong reliability, and practical everyday usability.

If Kia successfully delivers these updates by late 2027, the EV3 could become one of the most technologically advanced compact electric SUVs in the global market.