Volkswagen ID.4 competitor: Practical family SUV Kia EV5 celebrates European premiere

It's not really a premiere, as the Kia EV5 has been available in China since 2023. Nevertheless, the model could provide a boost in Europe. Why this is the case? ntv.de has taken the test drive and compiled a number of facts.

It's clear – Kia has developed its own design language for its all-electric models: The models with the "EV" in front of the number all look somehow more futuristic than the previous combustion engines. Now, ntv.de has taken a first look at the EV5 and even boarded it. First of all – the EV5 also has this visually forward-looking influence, although when viewed in the studio, it appears rather conservative at first glance.

After a while, it becomes clear why. The Kia team has, for once, brought an EV model with a conventional glossy paint color, thus foregoing the matte finish that is usually so popular. This gives the new family SUV a comparatively dignified appearance.

But that's not the case at all. A closer look reveals that the multifunctional electric car fits into the same lineup as the EV3 and EV4. And that doesn't look bad at all. However, the focus of the compact EV5 is primarily on practical utility. This makes it a perfect fit for families, or at least for those who regularly plan extended trips with several people. Or for homeowners with a garden and the need to transport bulky items from the hardware store. It's not without reason that Kia emphasizes that the cargo area is two meters with the rear seats folded down.

An interesting feature for travelers, however, is the 566 liters of luggage space with the rear seats upright, allowing for plenty of suitcases when fully occupied. The maximum capacity of 1,650 liters is also impressive. And there's also a frunk with a capacity of more than 44 liters under the hood.

Only 400 volts

And what's under the metal of the 4.61-meter-long electric car? A large battery, at 81.4 kWh, should be enough – depending on the tires, this should deliver up to 530 kilometers according to the average WLTP test. However, the battery pack can't be filled quite as quickly as in the EV6 and EV9 series – because although the EV5 is based on the so-called E-GMP platform, the engineers only use a 400-volt electrical system. As a result, the compact car now needs 30 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent instead of under 20. And no matter how much the people in charge emphasize that the SUV charges faster than a stop at a rest stop – there are scenarios where every minute counts. And those are not uncommon. But ultimately, it's also a cost issue.

Kia is still keeping quiet about these, although the starting price should be somewhere significantly below €50,000. After all, the Kia is poaching on the Volkswagen ID.4's territory. And for this price, there are not only practical features like a 200-volt outlet in the trunk (vehicle-to-load), but also seats with climate control and massage functions. And the large panoramic display is also a good match for such luxury features – although this is also familiar from the other Kia models.

What's new, however, is direct control of the most important climate functions via a physical button, including ventilation intensity and interior temperature selection. Easily accessible USB ports and ample storage space are standard at Kia, and this also applies to the young SUV. Added to this are a wealth of driver assistance features, including camera and radar sensors, plus gadgets like a digital key.

How the European version will drive cannot yet be said. But with an output of 218 hp (295 Newton meters of torque), it should offer a certain degree of dynamic aplomb. Acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) is a relatively leisurely 8.4 seconds, and the top speed is capped at 165 km/h (103 mph). Anyone curious about this all-rounder will probably have to wait until early 2026, when the first examples are expected to arrive at local dealerships.

The EV5's rear end appears somewhat futuristic on the one hand, yet dignified on the other. Especially with the understated color scheme. A large display and the occasional physical button will please digital natives as much as the more conservative clientele. The EV5's cargo area seems almost endless with the rear seats folded down. No wonder, considering the cargo area measures two meters.