A Refreshing Take on Electric: The Kia EV5

I have driven my fair share of EVs, and frankly, some blend into the background. But the Kia EV5? This one caught my attention from the moment I laid eyes on it. It strikes that elusive balance: a compelling fusion of traditional automotive design with the forward-thinking aesthetic of an electric vehicle. This isn’t just another blob-shaped EV. It is a statement.

A Sharply Defined Exterior

Kia’s recent design language, with its emphasis on sharp lines and geometric forms, is something I genuinely appreciate. The front fascia is bold, featuring creatively designed headlights that lend a futuristic yet aggressive look. The “tiger face” grille, though now purely aesthetic, adds a touch of familiarity. The rims, with their intricate patterns, further enhance the vehicle’s futuristic appeal. Moving to the rear, the clean lines and distinctive tail light design create a cohesive and sophisticated look.

I must admit that initially, I was intrigued by the flush door handles. They look sleek and contribute to the EV5’s aerodynamic profile. However, the practicality is a bit questionable. Requiring two motions – a press and a pull – to open the door can be a bit cumbersome, especially when your hands are full.

And, as expected with a modern EV, the absence of a traditional engine leaves a small storage space under the hood, useful for stowing charging cables or small items.

A Thoughtfully Designed Interior

Stepping inside, the EV5 impresses with its spaciousness and intelligent layout. The digital dashboard, featuring a dual 10.5-inch screen for the driver’s gauges and infotainment, is crisp and responsive. A separate 5.0-inch display for climate controls adds a touch of sophistication. I was particularly pleased with how easily the system read metadata from my phone, displaying music thumbnails seamlessly.

One of the most striking features is the bench-style front seat with a fold-up middle section. It is a nostalgic nod to the past, reminiscent of classic “people movers,” and reinforces the EV5’s family-friendly nature. The thoughtful inclusion of a USB port with the option to select charging or data transfer is a small but significant detail. Wireless charging in the centre console is another welcome addition.

Kia has maximised storage space with a compartment beneath the centre console, perfect for handbags or small items. The unconventional front AC vents, while visually distinct, function effectively. A unique touch is the drawer at the rear of the centre console, offering convenient storage for rear passengers.

The interior is exceptionally spacious, with ample head and legroom for all occupants. The rear seats recline, and there is enough space to comfortably accommodate a third row should Kia choose to offer it in the future. The rear AC vents, mounted on the side columns, are a configuration I prefer, ensuring efficient airflow.

Infotainment and Audio

The 10.5-inch infotainment screen is responsive and intuitive, and the system easily integrates with smartphones. The 7-speaker audio system delivers clear and balanced sound, adequate for most listeners.

Cargo Space and Practicality

The EV5 offers a generous 513 litres of cargo space, making it practical for everyday use and longer trips.

Driving Experience: Smooth and Responsive

The gear selector, mounted on the steering column, operates smoothly and effortlessly. During a tight manoeuvre on a narrow one-way street, the quick shift between drive and reverse proved invaluable.

The EV5 offers various driving modes – ECO, Normal, Sport, and Snow. I primarily used Normal mode, which proved to be adaptive and intuitive, providing ample power when needed. Selecting these modes via a button on the steering wheel is a convenient feature. The suspension is on the firmer side, providing a stable and controlled ride. Sport mode delivers instant power, but the vehicle’s weight is noticeable during sharp turns.

Competition

The Kia EV5 faces stiff competition from the BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Tesla Model Y.

The Kia EV5 is a compelling entry into the electric SUV segment. Its blend of striking design, spacious interior, and thoughtful features makes it a strong contender. While the flush door handles might not be the most practical, the overall package is impressive.

Specifications and Pricing

Price Range: $9.39m (Standard Range), $11.29m (High Spec Range)

Horsepower: 218 (Standard Range), 308 (High Spec Range)

Torque: 218 lb-ft (Standard Range), 318 lb-ft (High Spec Range)

Drivetrain: FWD (Standard Range), AWD (High Spec Range)

Cargo Space: 513 Litres

Interior Fabric: Fabric (Standard Range), Leather (High Spec Range)

Competition: BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Tesla Model Y

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