Kia has officially unveiled the EV5 electric SUV at the Chengdu motor show in China. This comes after an earlier concept and subsequent leaked images of the production version. The EV5 is the third addition to Kia’s growing family of electric vehicles, following the EV6 and EV9.
Initially launching in China, the EV5’s design draws inspiration from the larger EV9 SUV. While the production model features traditional wing mirrors and smaller alloy wheels compared to the concept, it retains the flagship EV9’s distinctive ‘tiger nose’ front-end design and unique rear beltline. The SUV’s dimensions measure 4,615mm in length, 1,875mm in width, and 1,715mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750mm and a weight of 1,870kg. The rear design emphasizes both practicality and aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside, the interior layout is reminiscent of the EV9, featuring a wraparound digital panel, driver display, and center touchscreen. Over-the-air updates will keep the EV5 up to date, and the vehicle’s roomy cabin offers features like ambient lighting, accessible infotainment and climate controls, and a variety of upholstery options. The EV5 boasts a bench-style front seat arrangement, and the rear seats fold completely flat for increased cargo space.
Regarding its powertrain, Kia has not yet released detailed specifications, but Chinese filings suggest a rear-mounted electric motor producing 218hp and 310Nm of torque. The Chinese version is expected to use a BYD LFP Blade battery, while the global model might feature an 82kWh NMC battery with a potential range of up to 600km. Kia has plans to introduce a high-performance GT version within its ‘EV’ lineup, likely offering a more potent 4WD variant of the EV5.
Although the initial launch is for the Chinese market, the EV5 will eventually be available in select global markets, with further details set to be revealed in October. Once launched, the EV5 will compete with electric vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Skoda Enyaq iV. While there is no confirmed timeline for its availability in India, Kia is set to introduce the EV9 in the Indian market next year, following the introduction of the EV6 in 2022.
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