The Kia EV3 lineup in Australia has just received a significant performance boost. Arriving in September 2026, the new 2027 Kia EV3 GT-Line AWD introduces a potent dual-motor powertrain to the popular compact electric SUV range, offering more grip, faster acceleration, and premium features.
Priced at $66,490 before on-road costs, this new flagship variant sits $2,540 above the existing front-wheel-drive GT-Line. While it misses out on the full ‘GT’ badge seen in overseas markets, the GT-Line AWD brings a substantial 45kW power increase over the standard models, making it a compelling option for drivers seeking all-weather confidence and stronger performance.
The new Kia EV3 GT-Line AWD brings dual-motor performance and all-weather capability to the compact SUV segment.
Australian pricing and the complete EV3 range
With the addition of the all-wheel-drive flagship, the 2027 Kia EV3 lineup is now complete in Australia. The range continues to start from a highly competitive $47,600 before on-roads for the entry-level Air, stretching up to the new AWD model.
Variant
Drivetrain
Price (before on-roads)
Air Standard Range
FWD
$47,600
Air Long Range
FWD
$53,315
Earth Long Range
FWD
$58,600
GT-Line Long Range
FWD
$63,950
GT-Line Long Range
AWD
$66,490
At this price point, the Kia EV3 AWD finds itself in a unique position. It undercuts larger dual-motor rivals like the Tesla Model Y Long Range, while offering a more premium alternative to budget-focused options like the BYD Atto 2 or the mid-size Deepal E07.
The GT-Line trim features gloss-black exterior accents, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a distinctive boxy silhouette.
Dual-motor performance and range
The headline upgrade for the GT-Line AWD is its dual-motor setup. Producing a combined 195kW of power and 385Nm of torque, it delivers a noticeable step up from the 150kW/283Nm found in the front-wheel-drive EV3 variants.
This extra traction and power slashes the 0-100km/h sprint time to 6.6 seconds, down from 7.9 seconds in the FWD model. To handle the increased performance, Kia has also equipped the AWD variant with larger brakes and a bespoke suspension and steering tune specifically designed for this model.
Power is drawn from the same 81.4kWh long-range battery pack used across the upper EV3 range. Despite the heavier dual-motor hardware, efficiency remains impressive. The GT-Line AWD boasts a WLTP driving range of 559km—only a minor 4km penalty compared to its FWD sibling.
When it comes to fast charging, the EV3 utilises a 400-volt architecture rather than the ultra-fast 800-volt system found in the larger EV6. However, it still supports respectable DC fast charging speeds, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent top-up in approximately 31 minutes. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability is also included, allowing you to power external devices directly from the car.
Despite the added weight of the dual-motor system, the AWD variant still achieves an impressive 559km WLTP driving range.
A premium, tech-focused interior
Inside, the GT-Line AWD represents the pinnacle of the EV3 range, offering a cabin that blends sustainable materials with high-end technology. The dashboard is dominated by Kia’s integrated panoramic display, which combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 5-inch climate control panel, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen into a single seamless unit.
As the flagship model, it comes fully loaded with luxury features. Occupants benefit from an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, a wide sunroof, ambient mood lighting, and ‘premium relaxation’ front seats that are both heated and ventilated. A head-up display ensures crucial driving information remains directly in the driver’s line of sight.
The tech-forward cabin features a continuous digital display, premium relaxation seats, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Kia Connect telematics and over-the-air (OTA) software updates are standard, ensuring the vehicle’s systems remain current long after purchase. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless smartphone charger, keep devices connected and powered without cable clutter.
Safety and arrival in Australia
Safety remains a priority for Kia, and the EV3 AWD is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active driver assistance systems. This includes autonomous emergency braking with junction assist, lane-centring assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and a 360-degree camera system. The EV3 range is backed by a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
The 2027 Kia EV3 GT-Line AWD is available to order now, with the first customer deliveries scheduled to commence in September 2026. For those eager to experience Kia’s electric lineup before committing to a purchase, you can easily rent an EV through the evee platform to see how it fits into your daily life.
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