This article includes speculative illustrations that are not endorsed or associated with Kia.
Kia has set its sights on an ambitious target, aiming to sell 1.6 million battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by 2030, up from their initial goal of 1.2 million. To achieve this vision, the Korean automaker has strategically planned to introduce at least two BEVs annually, resulting in a robust lineup of 15 BEVs by 2027. Among the key players in this electrifying lineup is the highly anticipated EV5 compact SUV.
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Unveiled at this year’s 2023 Chinese EV Day back in March, the EV5 Concept received considerable praise for its modern design. Positioned as the new-age electrified sibling to the Sportage, the EV5 is set to occupy a position below the upcoming flagship three-row EV9 in Kia’s lineup.
Whilst camouflaged prototypes are yet to hit the road, we’ve visualized what it could look like in production guise and explore everything else we know about the electrified compact SUV.
Muscular Design
Drawing inspiration from architectural elements and the beauty of natural landscapes, the EV5 exhibits a striking and muscular appearance, paying homage to its larger sibling, the EV9. This design influence is seamlessly translated into a more compact package, allowing the EV5 to make a bold statement while retaining its own unique character.
Front-end styling sports the automaker’s new “Digital Tiger Face”, which features a full-width LED light bar below the leading edge of the frunk, and Kia’s Star Map signature lighting technology – a constellation of connecting stars to a clean fascia.
Elsewhere, the EV5 has an even blend of smooth curves and hard edges. The greenhouse is upright and boxy, featuring a floating roof effect for visual dynamism. Deeply sculpted sheet metal and powerful haunches cement the purposeful look, while full-width C-clamp LED taillamps, spoiler and a contrasting kick panel finish off the rear aesthetic.
Interior Smarts
Kia EV5 Concept interior pictured
The interior design of the conceptual version of the EV5 is very linear, with strong horizontal lines and lightly colored materials – which are said to be recycled and eco-friendly. Unlike current Kia products, the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen now blend into one continuous screen.
The EV5 is expected to follow in the footsteps of its larger EV9 counterpart by offering advanced over-the-air updates, allowing for easy access to improvements and additional features through the Kia Connect Store. This means that owners can conveniently order and install updates from anywhere, enhancing the vehicle’s capabilities. Among the updates anticipated for the EV5 are semi-autonomous driver assist functions and the availability of various front lighting constellation configurations, further enhancing the driving experience and personalization options.
To enhance practicality, the EV5 will feature a completely flat floor, optimizing interior packaging to provide ample space for occupants and efficient stowage solutions. However, similar to the EV9, the availability of swiveling seats may vary depending on country-specific design regulations, which could limit their inclusion in certain markets, such as the U.S.
Power to Stun
At present, Kia has not disclosed any specific details regarding the powertrain options. However, it is highly likely that the EV5 will utilize the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), similar to the EV9. This suggests that it may offer both single and dual-motor configurations, employing a downsized version of the setup found in its larger brother. A high-performance GT version could also be in the cards down the line.
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Battery capacity will likely sit between 77.4-90 kWh and yield a 300-mile range. Its 800-volt architecture should allow DC fast charging up to 350kW (all going well) and allow for bi-directional charging capabilities.
Rivals and Reveal
While it’s too early to know pricing details, we expect the Kia EV5 to start from about $40,000 and climb to around $50,000 for the top-end dual-motor trims. Key competitors will include a raft of electric crossovers such as the Toyota bZ4X, Nissan Ariya and Volkswagen ID.4., and possibly even the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
The EV5 is scheduled to make its initial debut in China during the fourth quarter of this year, aligning with Kia’s goal of achieving nearly 40% of its annual sales from all-electric vehicles. Following its launch in China, the electric crossover is expected to reach other markets in the first half of 2024, possibly as a 2025 model year in North America.
Would you consider the EV5 as your first electric vehicle? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
