2025 Kia EV5 Revealed – Budget-Friendly EV SUV Coming to Australia

A New Chapter in Kia’s EV Evolution

Kia is no stranger to innovation in the electric vehicle space, and 2025 marks yet another chapter in its electrification strategy with the unveiling of the 2025 Kia EV5. Positioned as a compact electric SUV, the EV5 is set to become the brand’s most accessible and practical EV offering to date — targeting a younger, budget-conscious demographic without compromising on style, safety, or tech.

Revealed globally in 2024 and confirmed for Australia in early 2025, the EV5 will compete in a booming segment that includes the BYD Atto 3, MG ZS EV, and even lower trims of the Tesla Model Y. But what sets the EV5 apart?

Let’s take a deep dive into everything Australians need to know about Kia’s newest EV star.

Kia EV5 Overview: What Is It?

The Kia EV5 is a compact electric SUV that sits below the larger EV6 and the upcoming flagship EV9. It’s the first Kia EV model to be developed with cost-accessibility as a key priority — aimed at making the transition to electric more feasible for the average buyer.

Key Highlights:

• Segment: Compact SUV (electric)
• Expected Price Range: $49,000–$59,000 AUD (est.)
• Battery Sizes: 58 kWh and 81 kWh options
• Range: 500–720 km (China test cycle), likely ~450–550 km (WLTP)
• Drivetrain Options: Single and dual motor (FWD and AWD)
• Platform: E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform)

Exterior Design: EV9 DNA in a Smaller Package

One of the standout aspects of the EV5 is its striking design language, borrowed heavily from its bigger sibling, the EV9. It features boxy proportions, squared wheel arches, a flat bonnet, and Kia’s “Digital Tiger Face” — a modern reinterpretation of its iconic grille.

Design Elements:

• Vertical LED light signatures
• Flush door handles
• Floating roof with contrasting colours
• Aerodynamic alloys
• Rugged plastic cladding for SUV appeal

Despite being smaller, the EV5 looks substantial on the road, thanks to its tall stance and edgy design. It blends futuristic aesthetics with a practical footprint ideal for urban and suburban environments.

Interior: Lounge-Like Cabin and Sustainable Materials

Step inside the EV5 and it’s clear Kia is redefining what budget EV interiors can look like. Inspired by home furniture, the cabin feels more like a lounge than a car. Kia uses soft-touch, sustainable materials made from recycled PET bottles and plant-based alternatives.

Interior Features:

• 12.3-inch infotainment display + 12.3-inch digital cluster + 5-inch HVAC panel
• Vegan leather seating
• Ambient mood lighting with 64 colours
• Flat floor and sliding center console
• Rear seats that recline and fold flat
• Optional front bench seat (Korean/Chinese market)

The interior design reflects a new focus on well-being, space, and tech, with plenty of storage and a clean dashboard layout.

EV5 Dimensions and Boot Space

While compact by classification, the EV5 makes excellent use of its space. Built on the E-GMP platform, it has a long wheelbase and short overhangs, maximising interior volume.

This puts it firmly in competition with the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Tesla Model Y in terms of size.

Battery, Range & Charging Options

Battery Sizes:

• Standard Range: 58 kWh (LFP battery)
• Long Range: 81 kWh (NMC battery)

The larger battery is expected to offer over 550 km of range in WLTP conditions, which is excellent for the segment. The EV5 also supports 800V fast-charging thanks to its E-GMP underpinnings (though not all variants will have this capability).

Charging Performance:

• DC Fast Charging: Up to 240 kW (EV6 benchmark)
• AC Charging: 11 kW
• 0–80% Charge Time: Approx. 20–30 mins with fast charger

Expect multiple charging modes and full Kia Connect integration to manage charging remotely.

Powertrain Options and Performance

Depending on the market, the EV5 will be offered in several powertrain configurations:

Performance:

• 0–100 km/h (AWD model): ~6.5 seconds
• Smooth, linear electric torque delivery
• Ideal for city, highway, and mild off-road conditions

Kia may also offer a GT-Line or GT variant later with performance-tuned specs.

Technology & Features

As expected from a modern EV, the EV5 comes packed with state-of-the-art tech:

• Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR HUD)
• Kia Connect with OTA updates
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems):
  • Highway Driving Assist 2
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Lane Centering
  • Blind-spot view monitor
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • 360-degree camera

The EV5 will also offer Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities, allowing owners to power appliances, camping gear, or even other EVs.

Safety: 5-Star Potential

The EV5 is expected to go through ANCAP testing in 2025. Given Kia’s recent safety track record, a 5-star rating is highly likely. Structural integrity, numerous airbags, and advanced driver assistance tech bolster its case.

Safety Highlights:

• Forward collision avoidance
• Lane keeping assist
• Smart parking assist
• Driver fatigue warning
• Isofix anchor points
• Multiple airbags

Australian Launch Details & Expected Pricing

Kia has confirmed the EV5 for Australia in the first half of 2025. It will likely be offered in three trims, with the entry-level model priced to compete directly with the BYD Atto 3 and MG ZS EV.

Expected Pricing (Est.):

• EV5 Standard (FWD): ~$49,990
• EV5 Long Range (FWD): ~$55,990
• EV5 Long Range (AWD): ~$59,990–$62,990

Final pricing will depend on Australian EV incentives and exchange rates.

How It Compares: Kia EV5 vs Rivals

Kia’s strengths lie in:

• Better space
• More refined cabin
• Stronger safety tech
• Longer range in high trims

Who Should Buy the EV5?

The Kia EV5 is tailored to:

• First-time EV buyers
• Small families needing a practical daily SUV
• Budget-conscious drivers
• Urban and suburban commuters
• Tech enthusiasts wanting high-end features under $60K

It’s not a hardcore off-roader or performance SUV, but as an all-rounder in the EV segment, it hits the mark impressively.

Final Thoughts: Kia’s Budget EV Game-Changer

The 2025 Kia EV5 is shaping up to be a true game-changer for Australia’s EV market. It brings together style, space, practicality, and technology — all under a compelling price point. With competition heating up and consumer interest growing, the EV5 may just become the new go-to family EV SUV for Aussies.

Stay tuned to carsoop.com.au for the latest EV news, model updates, and test drive impressions as we get closer to the EV5’s official Australian launch.