Kia EV5 2025 review: Is this a game-changing new electric car that will trouble the Tesla Model Y?
Uploaded 9 months ago by CarsGuide
Video Summary
Here's a summary of the Kia EV5 video review:
The EV5 is all new all electric midsized SUV, and is considered to be the biggest challenge the Tesla Model Y has ever faced. It’s cheaper than the Tesla and the basic "Air" model has a standard range version costing $56,770 AUD. Air models get 18-inch alloys, LED lighting, roof racks, and power mirrors. The interior features cloth and faux leather seats with a massage function for the driver, a faux leather steering wheel, and LED interior lighting. Tech features include twin 12.3-inch screens and a smaller 5-inch climate screen, along with built-in nav, a six-speaker stereo, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The Earth model adds 19-inch alloys, black exterior flourishes, and privacy glass. The interior now has all faux leather seats and a second vehicle-to-load connection and a powered tailgate. The upcoming GT-Line gets everything, including 20-inch alloys, auto-flush door handles, a panoramic sunroof, premium relaxation seats, wireless phone charging, fingerprint recognition, a heated steering wheel, and an augmented reality head-up display.
Performance in the EV5 Earth are rated with twin motors (all-wheel-drive), with a combined 230kW and 480Nm, yielding a brisk 0-100 km/h time of 6.1 seconds. It comes with 88.1kWh battery, upping the range to 555 km. Air standard range models have a 64.2kWh battery, with an 8.5 second 0-100 km/h acceleration and a claimed range of 400 km. The GT line will have a similar setup to the Earth. In AC charging, the versions with single motor are capable to work up to 7kW, while the dual motor versions are set up for 11kW. DC fast charging is capable to plug into a 350kW charge point.
The size is approximately the same as a Tesla Model Y, giving adequate space for all passengers in the rear seats and enough storage. In the EV5 Air standard version there is 67 L under the front hood and 513 L in the back. Under floor storage is provided.
On the downside, the steering can feel artificially heavy and active lane keep assist can be intrusive, and cabin noise can be present on the wrong road surfaces. All models have great standard safety features, along with a comprehensive seven-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty. Servicing costs can be pre-paid. The vehicle is rated overall at 7.8/10. The price, size, and driving experience are right.