The 2025 Kia EV5 is now a powerful and impact-ready compact crossover SUV as it raises the bar for style, family-friendliness and eco-savvy power. In between the smaller EV3 and larger EV6 that form part of Kia’s rapidly expanding electric family, the EV5 strikes a handsome balance of value, utility and innovation. Whether you are an urban commuter or a family in need of the most versatile EV out there, this SUV has what it takes. In this piece, we’ll cover everything there is to know about the Kia EV5, including its specs, features, price, performance and range estimates as well as safety equipment.
Overview of the Kia EV5
Launched in 2023 at the Chengdu Motor Show, the Kia EV5 is the third model in Kia’s dedicated EV lineup, following the acclaimed EV6 and EV9. Constructed on a reworked version of Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) but with 400-volt architecture, it is focusing more on cost-effectiveness and usability than its siblings’ ultra-rapid 800-volt charging capabilities. It is currently not sold in the U.S., due to tariffs related to production, but it sells in markets such as Canada, Australia, China and the UK with plans for an entry into Canadian market at the 2025 Canadian International Auto Show.
Pricing and Trims
And like those, the Kia EV5 is budget-friendly and perfect for an affordable entry into the EV market. In Australia, pricing starts from approximately $56,770 AUD ($36,583 USD), and in the UK it begins at £39,295 ($51,500 USD). The EV5 comes in several trims, including:
- Air: The model’s entry-level version in a single-motor, front-wheel-drive configuration with standard or long-range battery.
- Earth: Mid-spec with optional 4X drive and upgrade interior.
- GT-Line: Dual-motor AWD, sporty styling, panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats are among the features in this top-spec model.
- Pricing varies by region and spec; that GT-Line AWD range-topper, for instance, still undercuts rivals such as the Tesla Model Y at about $75,990 AUD (~$43,600 USD) in Australia.
Battery, Range, and Charging
The Kia EV5 offers two battery options:
- 64.2 kWh Battery: Paired with a 215 hp (160 kW) front-wheel-drive motor, delivering an estimated range of 530 km (329 miles) under WLTP standards.
- 88.1 kWh Battery: Available with either a single motor (215 hp) for up to 555 km (345 miles) or a dual-motor AWD setup (308 hp, 230 kW) with a range of 470–500 km (292–311 miles).
- Charging is possible at a maximum DC fast-charge rate of 140–185 kW, which enables a charge from 10 to 80% in about 25 to 38 minutes. For home-charging, an 11 kW AC wallbox will charge the battery fully overnight (about 12 hours). The EV5 also has new features like Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), transforming it into a moving power station for devices or your home.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Kia EV5 proves to be a strong performer for such a compact SUV. The single-motor variant does 0–100 km/h in around 8.4 seconds and the AWD dual motor GT-Line will do it in approximately 6 seconds. The dual-motor system makes 308 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, enough for brisk acceleration and all the passing power you’ll need. Yet, others say that the EV5 leans more towards comfort than sporty handling as there’s occasional torque steer in the front-wheel-drive model and less refinement than its stablemates (EV6 or EV9).
The suspension of the EV5 is finally tuned for comfort, perfect for taking a family road trip or driving within city restrictions. Its 400-volt technology is not as advanced as other Kia EVs using an 800-volt system, but it provides a combination of efficiency and affordability to the meter for real-world energy use of approximately [15.9–19.9 kWh/100 km], depending upon model.
Interior and Practicality
The EV5’s interior is a work of art, combining sustainability with luxurious comfort. It includes eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastics, plant-based leather and natural fibers. It’s roomy with comfortable seating for five passengers and features a flat floor layout to ensure an even better ride in the stunning interior. Boot-space is impressive, at between 490–566 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,650 litres with them folded down.
Key interior features include:
- A triple-screen setup with dual 12.3-inch displays (infotainment and driver information) and a 5-inch climate control panel.
- Vegan leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, and optional massaging seats.
- A floating center console with dual cupholders, wireless charging, and storage trays.
- Pet Mode, which maintains cabin temperature for pets and displays a message for passersby.
Safety and Technology
The EV5 is packed with advanced safety and driver-assistance features, earning a five-star ANCAP safety rating in Australia (2024 criteria). Standard safety kit includes:
- Seven airbags (dual front, front side, front center, and full-length curtains).
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance.
- Adaptive cruise control, Highway Driving Assist 2, and a 360-degree camera (GT-Line).
Technology highlights include:
- Kia Connect OS with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Augmented reality heads-up display (select trims).
- Remote Smart Parking Assist for stress-free parking.
- Over-the-air updates for continuous software improvements.
Exterior Design
Design The EV5 adopts Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, including an assertive “Digital Tiger Face” with Star Map LED headlights and taillights. There’s also a flush-fitting door handle, an extended D-pillar (to create more room inside) and a rear spoiler with hidden wiper. The GT-Line trim pumps up the sporty with bigger alloy wheels and gloss black accents.
Also Read: 2025 Kia Carens: Features, Specs, and Price
Reliability and Warranty
Kia’s reputation for reliability shines with the EV5, backed by an industry-leading warranty:
- Vehicle: 7 years or 100,000 miles (unlimited kilometers in some markets).
- Battery and EV Components: 7 years or 150,000 km (8 years/100,000 miles for models registered after January 1, 2024).
Specific maintenance costs feel conditional to utilize, but the inclusion of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries leave long-term degradation worries in the dust, and don’t be surprised if upkeep rides in cheaper than with standard lithium-ion units.
Competitors and Market Position
Competing with the likes of the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID. 4, and BYD Sealion 7. Its major selling points are the lower entry-level price, lavish warranty and sensible cabin. But it’s up against pressure from Chinese brands that are coming in with similar features at even lower prices. That recipe of style, technology and value would appear to make the EV5 a strong contender in places like Canada or Australia for the compact electric SUV category.
Conclusion
The 2025 Kia EV5 is a total disrupter in the small electric (SUV) space, and has the special “3”–affordability, sustainability and technology. With roomy real-life range, an adaptable cabin and edgy safety tech: it’s perfect for anyone who wants to go green when they hit the road with the kids. It might not have the dynamism of the EV6 or EV9 but its affordability and practicality makes it a very tempting option. If you are in Canada, or Australia, there where the EV5 is available then do yourself a favour and take it for a test drive to see its futuristic attractions first hand.
