KGM Rexton vs Kia EV3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The KGM Rexton starts from $50,000 before on-road costs, while the Kia EV3 opens at $48,315. That makes the Kia EV3 the more affordable entry point by $1,685.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $55,000 and $53,147 respectively.
The Kia EV3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The KGM Rexton, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the KGM Rexton and Kia EV3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the KGM Rexton and 7 in the Kia EV3.
Feature Showdown
The KGM Rexton features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Kia EV3 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The KGM Rexton stands out with power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Kia EV3. The Kia EV3 counters with V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the KGM Rexton gets leather upholstery while the Kia EV3 offers cloth.
Drivetrain
The KGM Rexton uses a Turbo DDi Diesel producing 149kW and 441Nm of torque, sent through a 8-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 11.5 seconds.
The Kia EV3 responds with a Electric making 150kW and 283Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds.
The Kia EV3 has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 149kW. In the real-world sprint, the Kia EV3 is 4.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The KGM Rexton measures 4,850mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 550mm longer than the Kia EV3 at 4,300mm (2,680mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Rexton generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 236L in the KGM Rexton and 310L in the Kia EV3, giving the Kia EV3 a 74L advantage. The KGM Rexton seats 7 vs 5.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.6m
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Rexton) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV3). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the KGM Rexton if: You or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia EV3 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV3 takes 5 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Kia EV3 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, KGM Rexton and Kia EV3?
The Kia EV3 is the cheapest at $48,315 before on-road costs. That undercuts the KGM Rexton by $1,685.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The KGM Rexton uses the least fuel at 8.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — KGM Rexton and Kia EV3 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Kia EV3 has the largest boot at 310L.
Which can tow the most?
The KGM Rexton has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Kia EV3 makes the most power at 150kW. The Kia EV3 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.5s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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