Three electric cars, three different paths to success. The Kia EV2, Volvo EX60 and Polestar 5 differ in almost every way – but show that the most memorable driving experiences are still more about character than kilowatt-hours.
KIA EV2 IS the little one the electric car with an unusually high amount of personality, smart solutions and a comfort that makes it feel larger than its size suggests. The Volvo EX60 is one of the most anticipated electric cars of the year, and after the first few miles behind the wheel it is easy to understand why. The comfort, noise level and overall quality are at a level that makes it one of the most interesting new products of the year. The Polestar 5 is the challenger that chooses the GT track when many other electric cars follow the same path. They differ in almost everything, but have one thing in common: they manage to create something that cannot be measured in range or charging speed – character.
Kia – THE LITTLE SURPRISE
The Kia EV2 is the smallest car in the group, but also the most surprising. On paper, it's a compact electric car for city life. Behind the wheel it feels considerably bigger than that. What sticks after a few miles is the comfort. Where many small electric cars get bumpy and anxious over uneven asphalt, the EV2 chooses a different path. The suspension is softly tuned and the car moves with a calmness that feels unusual in the class.
The steering is light and the car is easy to position, making it agile in tight spaces. At the same time, there's a naturalness to the powertrain that suits the car's character. It's not built to impress with acceleration, but the power is delivered smoothly and predictably. The result is a car that feels relaxed to drive rather than fast.
It's also when you look closer at the spaces that the EV2 starts to stand out. The back seat offers more space than you'd expect, and in the four-seater version the seats slide back and forth to give greater flexibility between passengers and cargo. The luggage compartment, however, is more charming than impressive, but two cabin bags slip in without protest.
Add an easy-to-use infotainment system and smart features like V2L, and you have a car that's well thought out far beyond its external dimensions. The EV2 won't win any arguments about performance or range. But it does manage something that's often harder. It feels bigger, more comfortable, and more usable than its size suggests.
KIA EV2 STANDARD RANGE
Drivetrain Front electric motor, 147 hp
Battery: 42.2 kWh
Range Up to 317 km (WLTP)
Charge: AC 11 (22) kW, DC 100 kW
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 8.7 seconds
Top speed 161 km/h
Luggage compartment: 363 liters (up to 403 liters in four-seat version)
Towing weight: 750 kg
Price from: SEK 331,900
