Kia Unveils EV5: Electric SUV with 530 km Range and V2L Power

Kia has launched the EV5, 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 in the upmarket and lavishly equipped GT-Line, but the car manufacturer specifies a range of ‘only’ 505 kilometres for this version. This is likely due to a slightly higher kerb weight and the larger 19-inch wheels. The base EV5 rolls on 18-inch wheels.

Fast charging capability allows the battery to recharge from 10 to 80% in just 30 minutes using DC fast chargers up to 150 kW. The model supports 11 kW AC charging for home or public use.

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 export vehicles, on the other hand, are built in Korea to avoid punitive tariffs on Chinese electric cars.

The EV is powered by a 160 kW electric motor. In Australia, for example, Kia offers three EV5 variants, and the Long Range AWD version is offered with an additional 70 kW drive in the rear. There is no mention of this for the now announced markets. Another important 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.

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 and enjoy smooth, intuitive one-pedal driving for 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.

Towing capacity is rated up to 1,200 kg (approximately 2,645 lbs) in Korea and Europe, with trailer mode automatically adjusting estimated driving range based on trailer weight.

The EV5’s cockpit features a panoramic wide display combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a dedicated 5-inch climate control panel. It supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates and offers digital feature purchases through the Kia Connect Store. Additional tech includes Digital Key 2.0, fingerprint recognition, Kia AI Assistant, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. The Bold Motion Symphony sound identity provides a distinctive acoustic experience aligned with the vehicle’s futuristic design.

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. The EV5 is designed to meet Euro NCAP 5-Star and KNCAP Grade 1 safety standards.

The EV5 measures 4.6m in length with a 2,75m wheelbase, offering spacious interior dimensions suitable for families and active lifestyles. Exterior design embraces Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, with a robust SUV profile featuring a wide nose, three-dimensional ‘Star Map’ daytime running lights, rugged bumpers, and a broad skid plate. The SUV’s geometric surfacing, sharp vertical lines, and unique 19-inch wheels underline its bold yet functional character. 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 centre console features a sliding tray extending accessibility to the rear seats, which fold nearly flat to create a large, continuous cargo space. Rear seat-back tables, a sliding armrest with cupholders, and a three-zone climate control system with ergonomic seats offering massage and recline functions complete the lounge-like atmosphere.

“The EV5 is designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life. 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,” said Spencer Cho, Vice President and Head of Global Business Planning at Kia.

Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song added: “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.”

The EV5’s global rollout begins in the second half of 2025 in Korea and Europe, with North American sales planned for early 2026. However, North America in this case means Canada only. At the beginning of the year, Kia Canada stated that the EV5 will be ‘exclusively reserved for the Canadian market’ in North America.