Kia EV5 debuts in China, slated for Australian launch in 2024

Kia debuted its third dedicated electric vehicle (EV), the EV5, at the Guangzhou Auto show on Friday. It will likely become available in Australian some time in during 2024. The EV5, which is similar in size to the Sportage, will be produced in Korea and China, with the Australian models being sourced from China. The EV5 is built on the same E-GMP all-electric architecture as the EV6 and EV9, as well as Hyundai's Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6.

It has been aggressively priced in China, starting at AUD 29,700 (149,800 yuan). This brings it close to the BYD Yuan Plus (Atto 3) pricing of AUD 26,300 (139,800 yuan) and significantly less than Tesla's Model Y, which starts at a higher 266,400 yuan (approximately AUD 58,600).

Kia EV5 Specifications

The EV5 will be available in three variants in the Chinese market: Standard, Long Range, and Long Range AWD. Australian variants have yet to be confirmed but given what we've seen from the Australian market preferences, there's a good chance all three will go on sale.

• The Standard variant features a 160kW electric front-motor, coupled with a 64kWh battery. Kia states that under the more lenient CLTC testing conditions, it can achieve a range of as much as 530km.
• In the Long Range version, the same 160kW motor at the front is used, but it's equipped with a bigger 88kWh battery. According to Kia, under CLTC testing, this model can cover a distance of up to 720km.
• The Long Range AWD variant introduces an additional 70kW motor at the rear, resulting in a total power output of 230kW. This model is equipped with a 70kWh battery and is claimed to have a range of up to 650km, as per CLTC testing standards.

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The EV5 also boasts fast-charging capabilities that Kia and Hyundai EVs are known for, allowing a charge from 30 to 80 percent in as little 27 minutes.

At 4,615 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height, the EV5 sits between the Tesla Model Y and BYD Atto 3 size-wise.

The vehicle is equipped with features suitable for both hot and cold climates, including an advanced heat pump system for battery temperature management. It also offers i-Pedal one-pedal driving system, vehicle-to-load (V2L), and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) functionalities.

Kia EV5 Features

The interior of the EV5 includes a curved display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 5.0-inch display for tri-zone climate controls, and an optional head-up display. The EV5 introduces a new unified graphical user interface and supports over-the-air software updates.

The EV5's seats are made from recycled materials and Bio-PU leather, with various comfort features like massage and heating functions. Safety features include Highway Driving Assist 2, rear cross-traffic alert, remote parking, and digital key functionality.

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