Kia unveiled its first commercial vehicle with the PV5, marking the company’s entry into the electric van market. The Korean automaker positions this model as part of its Platform Beyond Vehicle strategy – essentially a plan to build modular electric commercial vehicles.
The PV5 sits between compact and medium-sized vans. It’s similar to the Volkswagen ID Buzz and falls somewhere between Ford’s E-Transit Courier and Custom models.
This creates an interesting middle ground for businesses that need more space than small vans but don’t require full-size commercial vehicles.
Design and Interior Features
Kia designed the PV5 as a ground-up electric vehicle rather than converting a diesel van. The front end houses the charging port centrally with headlights positioned low on either side. A black visor below the windscreen and slim running lights create a distinctive look.
The interior prioritizes function over style compared to the ID Buzz. Grey finishes dominate the cabin, but storage options are extensive.
Door pockets feature three levels with multiple cup holders and bottle storage. A large lidded storage bin sits on top of the dashboard. The center console includes a pull-out drawer and wireless phone charging area.
The 12.9-inch touchscreen controls most functions, which can be frustrating during daily use. Small onscreen buttons replace physical controls for climate and audio systems. The screen runs Android Automotive, allowing fleet management apps.
A seven-inch instrument display sits beside the main screen. Build quality feels robust for commercial use.
The seating position feels more car-like than typical vans. Cargo versions with bulkheads can feel cramped for taller drivers since the seat doesn’t slide back as far.
Passenger versions offer significant rear legroom. The five-seat configuration includes a 1,330-liter luggage area. Kia plans to add a seven-seat option later.
Cargo Space and Payload
The current PV5 Cargo measures 4.67m long by 1.9m high in L2/H1 configuration. Cargo volume reaches 4.4m³ with payload ranging from 665kg to 790kg depending on battery and door configuration.
The E-Transit Custom offers more space at 5.8m³ volume in its smallest L1/H1 size, with payload exceeding one tonne across all variants.
However, Kia sees the ID Buzz Cargo as its primary competitor. The PV5 provides an extra 0.5m³ of cargo space and carries 60kg to 180kg more payload than the Volkswagen.
Kia will introduce an L1/H1 version in 2026 that’s closer to the E-Transit Courier’s size. A larger L2/H2 variant will also arrive to boost cargo capacity.
All PV5 Cargo models include 180-degree rear doors and one sliding side door. Passenger versions get two sliding doors as standard, while Cargo variants can add a second slider as an option.
The van features modular design elements including removable cladding and three-piece bumpers. Individual sections can be replaced without fitting complete new parts.
Kia’s “AddGear” system provides attachment points throughout the cabin. These can be rearranged to accommodate cupholders, tool racks, or storage bins based on specific business needs.
Battery and Performance Options
Both Cargo and Passenger versions offer two powertrain choices.
The base setup uses a 51.5kWh battery providing 184 miles of range. The 120bhp motor delivers 184lb ft of torque with 0-62mph acceleration in 16.2 seconds when fully loaded.
Higher trim levels include a 71.2kWh battery with 258 miles of range. The upgraded 160bhp motor maintains 184lb ft of torque but reduces 0-62mph times to 12.4 seconds.
Passenger models lose one or two miles of range compared to Cargo versions. All variants support 150kW DC fast charging, topping the larger battery from 10-80% in under 30 minutes.
The 160bhp variant feels more responsive than specifications suggest. While it can’t match the 282bhp E-Transit Custom or ID Buzz, it handles urban driving and highway merging well.
Four levels of regenerative braking can be adjusted via steering column paddles. The system feels well-calibrated for smooth operation.
Road behavior emphasizes stability over sportiness. The low center of gravity and weighted steering create confidence, though some boominess occurs at highway speeds due to the large interior space.
Pricing and Equipment
Kia priced the PV5 aggressively against electric van competitors.
The Cargo Essential starts at £27,645 excluding VAT. After applying VAT and the £5,000 Plug-in Van Grant, the on-road price reaches £29,299.
The larger battery adds £3,000. Plus trim models cost £31,055 before VAT, totaling £33,391 after tax and grants.
These prices undercut most competitors significantly. The smaller Ford E-Transit Courier starts at £27,000 before VAT or grants. The E-Transit Custom begins at £43,630 excluding VAT.
The ID Buzz Cargo costs £39,205 on-road with grants applied, despite offering more power and approximately 40 additional miles of range.
Passenger pricing creates even larger savings. After a £1,500 Electric Car Grant discount, the PV5 Passenger starts at £31,495 for the smaller battery and reaches £36,795 for the larger battery Plus model.
The comparable ID Buzz passenger version starts at £60,000 – nearly double the PV5’s price despite offering 282bhp versus 160bhp and 282 miles versus 256 miles of range.
Essential trim includes LED lighting, automatic climate control, the 12.9-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring, parking sensors, reversing camera, adaptive cruise control, and highway driving assist.
Plus grade adds heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless charging, vehicle-to-load capability, and optional heat pump. Passenger Plus variants include 16-inch alloy wheels, heated rear seats, powered driver adjustment, and powered tailgate.
The PV5 represents Kia’s successful entry into commercial vehicles. While less powerful and stylish than the ID Buzz, it costs £8,000 less for Cargo versions and £30,000 less for passenger configurations.
Compared to traditional Transit-class vans, the PV5 offers less space and payload but costs significantly less while meeting many business and family needs.
The van delivers typical Kia qualities including thoughtful design, robust construction, generous equipment, and capable electric powertrains.
Kia PV5 Cargo Plus Specifications:
- Price: £31,055, excl VAT (£33,391 OTR, incl PIVG)
- Powertrain: Single-motor, front-wheel-drive
- Battery: 71.2kWh
- Power: 160bhp
- Torque: 184lb ft
- Top speed: 84mph
- 0-62mph: 12.4 seconds
- Range: 258 miles
- Consumption: 3.3m/kWh
- Charging: up to 150kW
