Kia’s EV3 small SUV and EV4 hatchback models have become more affordable in the United Kingdom, as both now qualify for the government’s £1,500 Electric Car Grant (ECG). This change comes with the introduction of a new ‘Motion’ trim level for the EV4, expanding consumer options while lowering costs.
EV3 Pricing and Eligibility
The Kia EV3 is eligible for the ECG in both its Standard Range (58.3 kWh, 270 miles) and Extended Range (81.4 kWh, 375 miles) configurations. The entry-level Air Standard Range now starts at £31,555, while the GT-Line Extended Range is priced at £37,995. Notably, the top-spec GT-Line S exceeds the £42,000 threshold for the grant, increasing its price to £43,055—even before adding optional features like the £900 heat pump.
EV4 Updates and the New ‘Motion’ Trim
The Kia EV4 has been ECG-eligible since December 2025 in its base Air specification with either battery option (58.3 kWh, 273 miles or 81.4 kWh, 388 miles). The automaker has now introduced a new ‘Motion’ trim for the Extended Range version.
The EV4 Motion Long Range starts at £38,995 and is currently available only as a hatchback. To receive the grant with a saloon body style, buyers must opt for the Air trim. The Motion trim bridges the gap between the GT-Line and GT-Line S in terms of equipment but retains the more understated styling of the base Air model.
Standard features in the Motion trim include an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, part-leatherette upholstery, an electric driver’s seat, heated rear seats, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera.
Why Not All EV4 Trims Qualify?
A point of confusion is why the EV4 GT-Line doesn’t also qualify, given its Extended Range powertrain is below the £42,000 threshold. According to Kia, this is due to larger wheels on the GT-Line, which have a higher homologated rolling resistance compared to those on the Motion and Air trims. The same issue applies to the higher-priced GT-Line S, which exceeds the £42,000 limit regardless.
These adjustments underscore the ongoing interplay between vehicle specifications and government incentives, highlighting how seemingly minor details—like wheel size—can affect eligibility for financial benefits.
The updated EV3 and EV4 pricing, alongside the new Motion trim, provides consumers with increased accessibility to electric vehicle ownership in the UK.
