Kia EV5: A New Contender on British Roads
The landscape of British automotive history has been significantly shaped by manufacturers from the Far East, with South Korea’s Kia emerging as a prominent force. Once known for its affordable and practical, albeit stylistically understated, vehicles, Kia has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, the brand is synonymous with desirable, modern designs, comfortable and technologically advanced interiors, and a premium feel – a journey that now sees its vehicles commanding upmarket prices. This evolution is perfectly encapsulated by the arrival of the new Kia EV5, a sprightly family-sized electric SUV that offers a compelling blend of style, technology, and practicality.
The EV5 enters the market in three well-appointed trim levels: the entry-level Air, starting at £39,346, the mid-tier GT-Line at £42,645, and the range-topping GT-Line S, which I had the opportunity to test, priced from £47,145. This new model benefits from technology trickling down from Kia’s larger and more expensive EV9 SUV, bringing a host of premium features to a more accessible segment.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Riding on 19-inch alloy wheels (18-inch on the Air trim), the EV5 is powered by a robust 81.4kWh battery feeding a lively 214bhp electric motor. This powertrain propels the SUV from 0 to 62mph in a swift 8.4 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 102mph. Kia claims a maximum range of up to 329 miles, with my test vehicle achieving a respectable 313 miles on a full charge.
Roughly comparable in size to the popular Kia Sportage, the EV5 proves to be an engaging car to drive. It exhibits brisk acceleration on straight roads, and the inclusion of a Sport mode enhances its responsiveness, providing a reassuring feel when navigating tighter corners. Even in urban environments with lower speed limits, the EV5 demonstrates excellent composure and refined manners.
Innovative Driving Features
One of the standout features of the EV5 is its sophisticated ‘one-pedal’ driving system. This functionality, controlled via paddles on the steering wheel, allows drivers to adjust the level of regenerative braking. This means that by simply easing off the accelerator, the car can decelerate smoothly, bringing it to a complete halt without the need to use the brake pedal, offering a more intuitive and efficient driving experience.
A Tech-Forward Interior
The interior of the EV5 is a testament to Kia’s commitment to modern automotive design and technology. The dashboard is a masterclass in blending physical controls with intuitive touch interfaces. A dominant, almost 30-inch screen consolidates key information and functions. This expansive display incorporates a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, a 12.3-inch central touchscreen for navigation and infotainment, and a dedicated 5.3-inch section for climate control. This setup is complemented by a useful head-up display, keeping essential information within the driver’s line of sight.
My test model was equipped with massage seats, a luxurious and unexpected addition that proved highly effective in promoting relaxation during longer journeys and aiding alertness. The cabin also features a sliding panoramic sunroof, privacy glass for enhanced comfort and security, and a cavernous boot.
Practicality and Safety
The practicality of the EV5 is undeniable. The boot offers a generous 566 litres of storage space with the rear seats in place, expanding to a substantial 1,650 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Furthermore, a convenient 44-litre ‘frunk’ (front trunk) provides additional storage for smaller items.
Safety is paramount, and the EV5 has earned a top five-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP safety assessments, underscoring Kia’s dedication to occupant protection.
Charging and Availability
When it comes to charging, the EV5 is well-equipped for various scenarios. A high-power 350kW DC fast charger can replenish the battery to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. For those using a 50kW DC charger, a full charge to 80% will take just over an hour. At home, an 11kW AC charger will take around seven and a half hours to fully charge the battery.
The EV5 is available in a choice of seven attractive exterior colours, including Iceberg Green, Gravity Grey, and Frost Blue, with specific colour options varying by trim level. Kia backs its new electric offering with a comprehensive seven-year or 100,000-mile transferable warranty, which extends to eight years for the battery pack.
Kia’s Electric Future
The EV5 is part of Kia’s systematically numbered electric vehicle range, which extends from EV1 to EV9. The brand continues to expand its electric portfolio, having recently unveiled the compact EV2 SUV and sporty GT versions of the EV3, EV4, and EV5 at the Brussels Motor Show. These new models maintain a recognisable familial design language, ensuring brand consistency across their increasingly diverse electric line-up.
The Kia EV5 represents a significant step forward for the Korean manufacturer in the competitive UK market. It offers a compelling package for families seeking a stylish, technologically advanced, and practical electric SUV that balances performance with everyday usability.
Kia EV5 GT-Line S Specifications:
- Price as driven: From £47,145
- EV5 Trim Levels: Air, GT-Line, GT-Line S
- Dimensions:
- Length: 4,610mm
- Width: 1,875mm
- Height: 1,675mm
- Wheelbase: 2,750mm
- Weight:
- Gross weight: 2,580kg
- Kerb weight: 2,092kg
- Battery: 81.4kWh Lithium-ion polymer
- Motor: Electric
- Power: 214bhp
- Performance:
- 0 to 62mph: 8.4 seconds
- Top speed: 102mph
- Maximum Range: 313 miles
- Luggage Space:
- Rear seats in place: 566 litres
- Rear seats folded: 1,650 litres
- Front trunk (‘frunk’): 44 litres
- Charging Times (to 80%):
- 350kW DC fast-charger: 30 minutes
- 50kW DC: 1 hour 10 minutes
- 11kW AC charger: 7 hours 20 minutes
