Kia EV5 unveiled as stylish electric SUV for 2024

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【Summary】Kia has officially unveiled the EV5, a stylish five-seat electric SUV that prioritizes practicality and space. Although initially designed for the Chinese market, a European launch is highly likely. The EV5 is part of Kia's expanding family of electric cars and will serve as an electric alternative to the Kia Sportage. It shares similarities with the larger EV9 and will compete with models such as the Skoda Enyaq iV and Mercedes EQB.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 9:20 AM PT

Kia EV5 unveiled as stylish electric SUV for 2024

The new Kia EV5 has been unveiled as a practical and spacious five-seat electric SUV with a stylish design. Earlier this year, a near-production concept of the EV5 was previewed, and leaked images of the final car provided hints about its design and positioning. However, official details have only now been revealed at the Chengdu motor show in China, primarily focusing on the car's design. Full technical specifications will be released closer to the launch.

Initially, the EV5 has been designed for the Chinese market and will be manufactured there for sale. However, there are strong indications that the car will also be launched in Europe, including the UK. Kia has announced that more details about the launch in "select global markets" will be provided at an event in October.

The EV5 is part of Kia's expanding range of bespoke electric cars, following the EV6 and EV9. It shares a close relationship with the larger EV9, and when it becomes available in dealerships, it will serve as an electric alternative to the similarly sized Kia Sportage crossover. Competitors in its segment will include the Skoda Enyaq iV, Mercedes EQB, Ford Explorer, and Fisker Ocean.

According to details published on the Chinese Ministry of Transport homologation platform, the EV5 has dimensions of 4615mm in length, 1875mm in width, and 1715mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2750mm and a kerb weight of 1870kg.

The influence of the flagship seven-seat EV9 is evident in the EV5's upright, two-box silhouette, chunky lower body cladding, and distinctive alloy wheel designs. Additionally, the EV5 shares its sibling's aggressive 'tiger nose' front end design and kinked rear beltline, which are characteristic features of the electric Kia lineup.

Kia describes the EV5 as a vehicle that seamlessly combines transformative design, exceptional versatility, and outstanding comfort. The aim is to surpass the accepted aesthetics of the existing compact SUV sector.