Kia Updates EV2 Range with New 61kWh Battery
The automaker has discontinued its smaller 42kWh battery variant to standardize the EV2 range with higher capacity.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Kia has refreshed its EV2 model lineup by replacing the 42kWh battery and First Edition trim with a new 61kWh battery standard. This update provides the vehicle with a maximum range of 275 miles across the new Air, GT Line, and GT Line S trim levels.
Why it matters
The switch to a larger battery addresses limitations in the initial First Edition trim's appeal by increasing the maximum driving range by approximately 80 miles. This consolidation simplifies the purchasing process while offering improved performance metrics for all current EV2 models.
The EV2 now comes equipped with a 61kWh battery producing 133hp and 250Nm of torque, capable of a 0-62mph acceleration time under 10 seconds. The vehicle offers 362 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,200 litres with the seats folded.
The players
Kia
This South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer is a subsidiary of the Hyundai Motor Group and is a major player in the global electric vehicle market.
The details
The updated EV2 range is now available in Air, GT Line, and GT Line S grades, replacing the previously available 42kWh First Edition model. Each trim level features 12.3-inch touchscreen and driver displays, with a P11D price of £27,930.
Timeline
The larger-battery variant was originally planned for release in Summer 2026.
Full availability for the updated EV2 range with the 61kWh battery began in October 2026.
Roadmap
This move reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry where manufacturers are phasing out entry-level, short-range battery options to focus on higher-capacity cells. By prioritizing the 61kWh battery, Kia is positioning the EV2 to remain competitive against rivals as the transition to electric vehicles reaches mass-market saturation.
Buyers looking for the EV2 now benefit from a significant 80-mile range increase, making the vehicle more suitable for longer trips. Customers should be aware that the entry-level 42kWh option is no longer available, shifting the starting point of the lineup to the higher-capacity battery configuration.
The takeaway
When shopping for a new electric vehicle, prioritize models that align with your specific daily commuting and long-distance travel requirements to ensure battery capacity meets your needs. Simplifying a product range to feature higher-performance batteries is becoming a common strategy for automakers looking to boost consumer satisfaction.
Further reading
For more information on the current state of the global market, visit our Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fleet World.
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