Kia has launched its EV5 electric SUV to challenge the Tesla Model Y and other family electric vehicles in what’s become the most competitive part of the UK car market.
The family SUV segment features everything from budget options like the Leapmotor C10 and MG ZS to established names like the Skoda Enyaq and Renault Scenic, plus Tesla’s dominant Model Y.
But Kia knows this territory well.
The company’s Sportage has been among the UK’s top-selling cars in recent years. Kia’s also built award-winning electric vehicles like the EV3, EV6 and EV9.
The EV5 aims to blend those two successful areas together – offering a new challenger for the title of best electric family SUV.
Design and Interior Space
The EV5 shares design language with Kia’s other electric models. There’s the same upright, boxy shape designed for strength and stability, plus sharp creases that give the body definition.
The “Star Map” lighting system stretches between the bonnet’s leading edge, wheel arches and lower bumper to create a striking light signature. At the rear, thin lights run nearly the full width and scoop down in a C-shape toward the rear bumper.
Silver trim elements on higher trim levels help break up the shape.
Inside, Kia maintains its user-friendly approach. Physical controls handle key driving functions – lights, climate control and driver aids – supplemented by touchscreen controls and haptic buttons on the dashboard.
The central screen’s menu system is clear and logically laid out. A 5.5-inch climate control panel flows into a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Top-spec cars add a head-up display.
To avoid a flat dashboard, Kia’s designers created an angular design that mirrors the exterior bodywork. Everything feels built to last, though almost everything comes in uniform grey. GT-Line S cars get white panels on the seats and armrests – virtually the only color anywhere.
The EV5 delivers on practicality though.
There’s extensive storage throughout the cabin, from the broad lower bin between front seats to generous door pockets and a slide-out table for rear passengers. A bag hook sits under the dashboard, plus wireless charging and multiple USB ports.
The long wheelbase means some of the best rear legroom in the class. There’s space for three across the wide rear bench with plenty of room for those in front. The 566-liter boot provides ample luggage space, though some rivals offer more. A 44-liter frunk stores cables and other items.
Battery and Performance
Kia keeps the EV5’s powertrain simple. There’s one battery, one motor option for now.
All-wheel-drive and hot GT versions will arrive later.
Every current version gets an 81.4kWh battery and a 214bhp motor driving the front wheels. The 0-62mph time hits 8.4 seconds – respectable but not exciting.
Entry-level Air specification offers a 329-mile range while GT-Line and GT-Line S models with bigger wheels and heavier equipment provide up to 313 miles. That’s notably behind class leaders – the Enyaq offers up to 360 miles, the Scenic 379 miles and the new Citroen E-C5 Aircross reaches 421 miles.
Charging maxes out at 127kW. Rivals offer between 150kW and 280kW, which can shave five to 10 minutes off the EV5’s 30-minute 10-80% charging time.
On the road, performance feels adequate but unremarkable.
The EV5 definitely lacks the punch of the 282bhp Enyaq but pulls well enough for most situations. Multiple driving modes include sport – which sharpens the throttle and activates pneumatic seat bolsters in GT-Line S cars – and snow mode for reduced wheel slip.
Like other Kia EVs, there are multiple braking regeneration settings from off to one-pedal driving, plus an auto option.
Kia delivers its usual controlled, reassuring driving experience. The GT version might unlock new dynamic ability, but the regular car feels connected whether meandering through town or pressing along country lanes. The ride is firm, especially on higher-grade cars’ larger wheels, with a slightly stiff feel over broken surfaces. It’s still more settled and comfortable than Chinese alternatives and matches the Scenic’s comfort level.
Pricing and Equipment
C-SUV segment prices now range from the low £30,000s to the high £50,000s. The EV5 sits neatly in the middle.
Three trim levels start with Air grade at £39,345. GT-Line begins at £42,645 while range-topping GT-Line S costs £47,145 before options.
Options are limited to a heat pump, fancy paint finishes and entertainment packages.
Every EV5 gets alloy wheels, full LED lights, heated front seats, tinted rear windows, dual-zone air conditioning and wireless smartphone mirroring. Standard driver assistance includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.
GT-Line upgrades the Air’s 18-inch wheels to 19-inch units. It adds powered door handles, adaptive LED headlights, a powered tailgate and heated rear seats along with cosmetic upgrades.
GT-Line S adds a panoramic roof, Harman Kardon stereo, upgraded front seats with cooling and back-care Ergo Motion for the driver, plus head-up display and fingerprint recognition.
The Competition Challenge
The EV5 doesn’t feel like the same standout as Kia’s other electric vehicles – but that’s down to very capable rivals across the segment.
Some competitors offer more power, longer range, faster charging or lower prices. The EV5 doesn’t emerge as a clear class leader in any single area.
It does deliver a strong all-around package though.
The combination of space and practicality with decent everyday performance, reasonable range and generous equipment creates a compelling family electric vehicle.
Kia EV5 GT-Line S Specifications:
- Price: £47,145 (£47,820 as tested)
- Powertrain: Single-motor, front-wheel-drive
- Battery: 81.4kWh
- Power: 214bhp
- Torque: 218lb ft
- Top speed: 102mph
- 0-62mph: 8.4 seconds
- Range: 313 miles
- Consumption: 3.5 miles/kWh
- Charging: Up to 127kW
