Kia has entered the electric vehicle (EV) market with a bang, introducing the EV5, a compact SUV that boasts style, performance, and practicality.
Striking Design and Spacious Interior
The EV5 grabs attention with its sleek and futuristic design. The car features Kia’s “Opposites United” design language, characterized by sharp lines, geometric shapes, and a unique LED lighting signature. The spacious interior offers a comfortable and modern environment for passengers. The minimalist dashboard is dominated by two large 12.3-inch displays, one for the instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system.
Powertrain Options and Driving Performance
The EV5 comes in multiple configurations, catering to different driving needs and preferences. The base model features a 58.2 kWh battery pack and a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 215 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. This setup offers an estimated driving range of around 239 miles (385 km) according to the WLTP standard. Upgrading to the larger 77.4 kWh battery pack increases the range to an estimated 339 miles (545 km) and adds a front-mounted motor for a combined output of 302 horsepower and 608 lb-ft of torque. This AWD version delivers a 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, making the EV5 surprisingly quick for an SUV.
Charging Options and Technology
The EV5 is equipped with a CCS (Combined Charging System) port, allowing access to a vast network of DC fast-charging stations. With a 350 kW charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, making long-distance travel more convenient. The EV5 also comes packed with advanced technology features, including Highway Driving Assist 2, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering for a semi-autonomous driving experience on highways.
Not Available in the US (Yet)
While the EV5 is available in many markets around the world, including Canada, Mexico, and several European countries, it is currently not available for purchase in the United States. This is due to the complexities of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which has altered EV tax incentives in the US. However, Kia has not ruled out the possibility of bringing the EV5 to the US market in the future.
