Kia introduces compact EV5 electric crossover

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【Summary】Kia debuted the EV5 electric crossover at the Chengdu Motor Show in China. While it will launch in China this year, a U.S. launch is yet to be confirmed. The exterior resembles the EV5 concept, and the interior offers a minimalist design with adjustable ambient lighting. No details on power, battery size, range, or price have been revealed. Kia plans to have 14 EVs in its lineup by 2027, with at least two launching per year starting in 2023.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 10:28 AM PT

Kia introduces compact EV5 electric crossover

The Kia EV5 electric crossover made its debut in production-ready form at the Chengdu Motor Show in China. While it is set to launch in China later this year, there is no confirmation yet for a U.S. launch.

The exterior design of the EV5 closely resembles the EV5 concept that was first shown in March. It gives off the impression of being a mini version of the Kia EV9. Although no technical details have been released, it is known that the EV5 has a footprint similar to the current Kia Sportage crossover. There have been leaked measurements from a Chinese state site, indicating that the EV5 is approximately 182 inches long, 74 inches wide, and 68 inches tall. Kia has not mentioned the platform used for the EV5, which could be the same as the E-GMP platform used for the EV9 and EV6, or it could be a platform specifically designed for smaller, more affordable EVs.

Inside the EV5, there is a minimalist dashboard design that closely resembles the EV5 concept. However, the swiveling seats from the concept have been removed. Kia promises that the interior will provide extensive space, resembling a home lounge rather than a traditional car cabin. The ambient lighting in the EV5 can be adjusted for brightness and color, with 64 options available. It not only sets the mood but also changes colors in sync with the vehicle's drive modes and alerts drivers when they exceed the speed limit.

Kia has not revealed any information regarding the power, battery size, range, or price of the EV5. Currently, Kia has only confirmed sales in China, with further details expected to be announced at the Kia EV Day event in October. If the EV5 is planned for the U.S. market, launch timing may be revealed at that event. In the U.S., the EV5 would likely compete against vehicles such as the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya.

Kia has ambitious plans for its electric vehicle lineup, aiming to have 14 EVs in its global lineup by 2027. Starting in 2023, Kia plans to launch at least two new EVs per year. The EV9, which will be released as a 2024 model, is also part of Kia's U.S. EV plans. Additionally, Kia has plans to introduce an electric pickup truck in the U.S.