What’s New About the Kia EV5 for Europe?
If you’ve been eyeing the electric SUV market, you might’ve noticed the Kia EV5 making waves in China since 2023. Now, Kia’s gearing up to launch a European version—and it’s not just a copy-paste job. The European EV5 gets a significant battery upgrade, swapping out the lithium-iron-phosphate pack used in China for an 81.4kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt unit. This is the same battery you’ll find in Kia’s smaller EV3 and EV4 models, but here it delivers a claimed range of up to 329 miles. That’s a real-world figure that puts it right in the thick of the competition, especially for drivers who want to go the distance without constant charging stops.
How Fast and Convenient Is Charging?
Let’s be honest—nobody wants to spend their life waiting at a charging station. Kia seems to get that. The EV5’s battery supports DC fast charging at up to 120kW, which means you can juice up from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes. That’s enough time for a coffee and a quick scroll through your messages, not an entire afternoon lost. Plus, the vehicle isn’t just about taking power in—it can give it back, too. Thanks to vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-grid capabilities, you can use the EV5 to power external devices or even feed energy back into the grid. Think camping trips with electric grills or helping out during a home power outage. It’s a clever touch that makes the EV5 more than just a way to get from A to B.
What’s Under the Hood (and Why Does It Matter)?
At launch, the European EV5 will come with a single front-mounted motor delivering 215bhp and 218lb ft of torque. Translation: it’ll get you from 0 to 62mph in 8.4 seconds. That’s not supercar territory, but it’s more than enough for everyday driving and quick overtakes. If you’re after something sportier, you might have to wait—Kia isn’t offering the 302bhp four-wheel-drive setup available in China, at least not yet. However, there’s talk of a future GT version with more power, firmer suspension, and simulated gear changes. If you’ve seen what Kia did with the EV6 GT, you know they’re not afraid to turn up the fun factor.
How Does the Interior Stack Up for Daily Life?
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that feels thoroughly modern. The EV5 features dual 12.3-inch displays for both instruments and infotainment, plus a 5.3-inch touch panel dedicated to climate controls. Kia has also ditched the Chinese model’s bench-style front seats in favor of a more conventional two-seat setup with a larger center console. This change isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort and practicality, giving you more usable space and a familiar driving environment. It’s the kind of thoughtful tweak that shows Kia is listening to what European drivers actually want.
Will the European-Built EV5 Avoid Tariffs?
Here’s a bit of behind-the-scenes strategy: Kia will build the European-market EV5 in Korea, not China. Why does that matter? Because it sidesteps the European Union’s tariffs on Chinese-built electric vehicles. The result is likely better pricing for consumers and a smoother path to market. It’s a move that could give Kia a real edge over rivals who are still figuring out how to navigate these trade hurdles.
How Does the EV5 Compare on Price and Rivals?
While Kia hasn’t confirmed exact pricing yet, there are some strong clues. The EV4 Long Range starts at £37,695, and the EV6 Long Range is priced from £45,585. That suggests the EV5 will likely slot in just below the £40,000 mark. At that price, it’s going head-to-head with heavyweights like the Audi Q4 E-tron, Nissan Ariya, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. If Kia can deliver on its promise of range, tech, and practicality, the EV5 could be a compelling alternative—especially for buyers who want a fresh face in a crowded field.
What’s the Real-World Impact for Drivers?
The EV5 isn’t just about specs on a page. It’s about making electric driving more accessible, more practical, and—dare we say it—more enjoyable. With a long range, fast charging, smart interior design, and the ability to power your gadgets or even your home, it’s clear Kia is thinking beyond the basics. And by building the car in Korea, they’re making sure European buyers get a fair deal.
The big takeaway? Choosing an electric SUV like the Kia EV5 isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.