Kia’s new EV5 mid-sized SUV, built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, delivers up to 530 km range, fast charging, V2L/V2G power capabilities, and advanced safety. It is scheduled to launch in Korea and Europe in late 2025; pricing has just been communicated and starts at €45,990.
Kia’s EV5 is a fully electric mid-sized SUV built on Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). Offering two battery options, 60.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh, the EV5 delivers a WLTP driving range of up to 530 km. Kia does not mention a WLTP range for the smaller battery.
The larger battery pack also comes standard with the upmarket GT-Line, but the car manufacturer specifies a range of 505 kilometres for this version. This is most probably due to a slightly higher kerb weight and the larger 19-inch wheels. The base EV5 comes standard with 18-inch wheels.
Fast charging capability enables the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes using DC fast chargers with a capacity of up to 150 kW. The model supports 11 kW AC charging for home or public use.
Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song: “The EV5 represents a significant step in Kia’s shift toward electrified mobility. This vehicle was developed not only to expand our electric lineup but to make EV ownership more practical and appealing to a broader range of drivers.”
“With the EV5’s global launch, we’re reinforcing our presence in key markets including Korea, Europe, and North America, and continuing our commitment to making sustainable mobility more accessible worldwide,” he added.
Model differences
Kia presented the EV5 in October 2023 and initially launched it on the market in China. It is also exported to Thailand and Australia. The design of the electric SUV is based on the large EV9. Like the latter, the EV5 is also based on the E-GMP electric platform, but only on the 400-volt version.
In Europe, this drive is known from the smaller EV3. It is hardly surprising that the Chinese market took priority; the EV5 rolled off the production line there for local customers. The vehicles exported to many other countries are built in Korea to avoid punitive tariffs on Chinese electric cars.
A 160 kW electric motor powers the EV. In Australia, Kia offers three EV5 variants, with the Long Range AWD version featuring an additional 70 kW of drive in the rear. There is no mention of this for the now announced markets.
Another essential difference between the Chinese and international versions concerns the battery technology. While the EV5 models intended for China have an LFP battery, the model marketed in Europe, like the other electric Kias available here, has NMC batteries. In the basic version, these have a capacity of 60.3 kWh, but the manufacturer does not specify a range for this variant.
Smart and functional
What Kia does mention is that the EV5 features advanced electric drivetrain technology, including traction-enhancing all-wheel drive and Kia’s new i-Pedal 3.0 system. This system enables drivers to adjust regenerative braking levels, allowing for smooth and intuitive one-pedal driving, which provides greater control and comfort.
The SUV also integrates Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and upcoming Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functionality, allowing it to serve as a mobile power source for outdoor activities, worksites, or emergencies. The towing capacity is rated at up to 1,200 kg in Korea and Europe, with trailer mode automatically adjusting the estimated driving range based on the trailer’s weight.
Safety technologies include seven airbags, a reinforced body structure, and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Highlights are Highway Driving Assist 2 with Hands-On Detection, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.
‘Opposites United’ design philosophy
The EV5 measures 4.61 m in length, 1,88 m in width, and 1,68 m in height. It has a 2,75 m wheelbase, offering spacious interior dimensions suitable for families and so-called ‘active lifestyles’.
The exterior design embodies Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, featuring a robust SUV profile with a broad nose, three-dimensional ‘Star Map’ daytime running lights, rugged bumpers, and a broad skid plate. The rear includes vertically extended lamps and a clean tailgate, reinforcing the EV5’s authentic SUV stance.
Inside, the cabin is designed for flexibility and comfort. The wide center console features a sliding tray extending accessibility to the rear seats, which fold nearly flat to create an ample, continuous cargo space.
Rear seat-back tables, a sliding armrest with cupholders, and a three-zone climate control system, along with ergonomic front seats offering massage functions for the driver and recline functions, complete the lounge-like atmosphere.
The ccNC system (connected car Navigation Cockpit) combines a 12.3-inch instrument panel, a similarly sized infotainment panel, and a 5.3-inch climate display into a single panoramic display. Over-the-air (OTA) updates keep the whole connectivity and info system up to date.
“The EV5 is designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life,” said Spencer Cho, Vice President and Head of Global Business Planning at Kia.
“It offers the kind of range, charging convenience, and smart interior technology and comfort that make electric driving feel natural, whether you’re commuting, spending time outdoors, or enjoying the freedom to power your life anywhere with V2L and V2G,” he added.
Not in the U.S.
The EV5’s global rollout is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025 in Korea and Europe, with North American sales planned for early 2026. However, in this case, North America refers only to Canada. At the beginning of the year, Kia Canada stated that the EV5 will be “exclusively reserved for the Canadian market” in North America.
EV 5 starting at €45,990 in Belgium
The new Kia EV5 can be ordered in Belgium starting from now at €45,990. First deliveries are scheduled for december and the car will, of course, be one of the highlights at the Brussels Motor Show in January 2026.
Meanwhile, Kia has slightly revised its Sportage best-seller, and the car is now also ready to order. The vehicle is available in an ICE configuration and in electrified versions, as well as hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Prices start at €35,190.
