Kia Australia has confirmed the arrival of its new all-electric, mid-sized SUV, the Kia EV5, bringing a compelling mix of features and pricing to the electric vehicle (EV) market. With the entry-level Air Standard Range FWD variant priced at $56,770 across both RRP and Driveaway and the top-tier GT-Line AWD reaching $71,770 RRP ($75,990 Driveaway), the EV5 aims to position itself as a cost-effective option for Australian consumers.
“Kia’s EV5 marks a significant milestone in Kia’s global journey to increase access and take-up of electric vehicles,” stated Kia Australia’s CEO, Damien Meredith. He added,
The Kia EV5 will be available in three trims: Air, Earth, and GT-Line. The Air model offers a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) powertrain with a choice between a standard 64.2 kWh battery or a long-range 88.1 kWh battery, while Earth and GT-Line models come equipped with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) powered solely by the larger battery. The EV5 is built on Kia’s N3-ek platform and is designed with Australia’s unique road conditions in mind, thanks to an extensive local ride and handling program.
Design-wise, the EV5 is a bold addition to Kia’s lineup, embracing the brand’s “Opposites United” design language. The SUV sports a distinctive front end with a wide nose, solid bonnet, rugged skid plate, and ‘Star Map’ signature lighting. From the side, the EV5 reveals modern touches like folding door handles, roof rails, and stylish alloy wheels, while the rear showcases the ‘Star Map’ LED tail lamps, rugged skid plate, and an aerodynamic spoiler. Drawing inspiration from the award-winning EV9, the EV5’s interior combines design sophistication with practicality, creating an inviting and functional space for drivers and passengers alike.
Across all variants, the EV5 boasts advanced technology, including dual 12.3-inch displays connected by a 5-inch bridging segment, presenting a seamless panoramic experience. Equipped with Kia’s updated GUI and climate monitoring through the new ccNC unit, the EV5 offers a refined and intuitive driver experience. Additional comfort and convenience features, such as Kia Connect Over-The-Air (OTA) updates and a Shift-by-Wire (SBW) column, are available on all trims, with the Earth and GT-Line trims adding a Smart Power Tailgate.
For those opting for the GT-Line, exclusive features like heated and cooling storage, a fingerprint module, Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR-HUD), and Remote Smart Park Assist 2 (RSPA 2) set this variant apart, providing drivers with a truly premium experience.
In terms of safety, the Kia EV5 is equipped with a suite of active and passive safety features. Standard on all trims are Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) and a centre side airbag, while the GT-Line also includes a Blind Spot View Monitor (BVM). The EV5 is available in a range of exterior colours, with two-tone options exclusive to the GT-Line, and the Earth grade offers an artificial leather interior in Smokey Black and Nougat Beige.
Pricing / Battery Size / Range
Model | EV5 Air 2WD Standard Range | EV5 Air2WD Long Range | EV5 Earth AWD Long Range | EV5 GT-LineAWD Long Range |
Battery | 64.2 kWh | 88.1 kWh | ||
Powertrain | 2WD Single Motor | AWD Dual Motor | ||
Power/Torque | 160 kW / 310 Nm | 230 kW / 480 Nm | ||
Wheels | 18” Alloys | 19” Alloys | 20” Alloys | |
WLTP Range | 400 km | 555 km | 500 km | 470 km |
RRP | $56,770 | $61,170 | $64,770 | $71,770 |
Driveaway ** | $56,770 | $63,990 | $68,990 | $75,990 |