Kia introduced the new EV5 electric crossover in China in August, and during the recent EV Day event in South Korea, more details about this compact SUV were revealed.
The EV5 is built on the flexible E-GMP architecture, which is also used for Kia’s EV6 crossover, EV9 SUV, EV3, and EV4. It has a similar size to the Sportage but features a boxier and more futuristic design. EV5 is impressive, there’s hope the stylish aero wheels make it onto the production version.
Comparisons between the EV5 and EV9 are warranted, as both SUVs have practically identical layouts and designs. The dashboard features a large screen spanning most of its width, housing two 12.3-inch displays and an additional 5.0-inch screen for climate control functions. Frequently used controls are flush mounted, backlit and integrated into the center of the dash.
The EV9’s distinctive squircle steering wheel also carries over to the EV5.
Interior Design Layout
When the Chinese version of the EV5 debuted, it showcased front seats that resembled a raised bench. Kia clarified this design is specific to the Chinese market, other markets will have a traditional two seat arrangement. The purpose and usefulness of the faux bench design are unclear, especially since there is no seatbelt for a possible middle seat passenger.
Kia revealed certain powertrain details about the EV5 during the EV Day event. However, it remains uncertain which of these details will apply to the rest of the world model. One confirmed aspect is that the EV5 will exclusively use a 400-volt vehicle architecture. Therefore it can’t take advantage of 350 kilowatt DC fast-chargers.
The max charging speed is yet to be determined, but an official mentioned it will exceed 150 kw.
The 400-volt version of the E-GMP platform offers a slight cost advantage, which will be beneficial during the pricing phase of the EV5.
Batteries and all Important Range
In China, the EV5 will be available in standard, long range, and long-range AWD models. The standard version features a 64-kilowatt-hour battery pack and a front motor with 214 horsepower. The long-range version pairs an 88-kWh pack with the same motor. The long-range model is estimated to have a driving range of approximately 700 kms. based on the (CLTC) test.
Kia has announced that the Korean-spec EV5 will have the same number of models but different battery packs. The standard range EV5 will be equipped with a 58-kWh battery, while the long-range variant will have an 81-kWh battery. Kia stated that the driving range of each model will be adjusted to meet market demands.
In addition, the EV5 will feature vehicle to load (V2L) charging capabilities like the EV6. The SUV will also include Kia’s full suite of driver assistance technologies, including updated versions of the Highway Driving Assist and Remote Smart Park Assist functions. Kia confirmed a higher performance EV5 GT model is currently in development.
However, it should be noted that the information on the Kia EV5 Electric Crossover being Introduced is subject to availability in specific locations. It is hoped that official announcements regarding the availability of the EV5 will be made soon for interested buyers.