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Why the Kia EV5 Is Worth a Second Look
The latest addition to Kia’s electric lineup, the EV5, promises a blend of practicality, tech, and a bold design that sets it apart from its sibling, the EV3. While the EV5 carries a higher price tag, its expanded interior, upgraded features, and distinctive styling make it a compelling option for families and tech‑savvy drivers alike.
Exterior Design: A Boxy, Rugged Statement
The EV5 adopts a boxy silhouette that echoes the styling cues of the larger EV9, giving it a rugged, almost “Tonka‑toy” appearance. Its low, wide stance and prominent wheel arches create a presence that feels both modern and sturdy. The front bumper features a slightly different design on the entry‑level model, while the higher trims sport 19‑inch wheels compared to the 18‑inch set on the base version. Despite the bulk, the car’s low dash and generous side windows provide excellent forward visibility, making tight manoeuvres surprisingly manageable.
Interior Comfort and Tech Highlights
Inside, the EV5 offers a spacious cabin with ample knee and headroom for rear passengers. The seats are highly adjustable, with a large base that supports a generous amount of foot space. The front seats include a relaxation mode activated by a simple button, and the rear seats can be reclined for added comfort on longer journeys. A hidden storage drawer keeps contraband out of sight, while a fingerprint sensor on the door unlocks the vehicle and loads the driver’s personalized settings with a single touch.
Technology is a strong point: the infotainment system features a dark‑themed interface, physical climate controls, and a digital driver display that cycles through views with ease. The GT and GT Line S models include a heads‑up display, heated and cooled seats, a massaging seat feature, and a large panoramic sunroof. Connectivity is robust, with wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 12‑volt socket. The car also offers a remote parking feature that lets the key fob drive the vehicle forward or backward into tight spaces, a handy tool for urban parking.
Performance and Handling: Front‑Wheel Drive with a Punch
The EV5 is powered by a single front‑wheel‑drive electric motor delivering 217 horsepower. Weighing 2.1 tonnes, it is heavier than the EV3’s 1.9‑tonne frame, which slightly dampens its acceleration. Nevertheless, the EV5 achieves 0‑60 mph in 7.88 seconds, a respectable figure that matches the EV3’s 7.9‑second sprint. Braking performance is adequate, stopping from 60 mph in about 34 metres, though the heavier weight means the EV5 takes a bit longer than the lighter EV3.
Handling is surprisingly confident. The front‑wheel‑drive layout provides a light steering feel, and the car grips corners well, even when the driver applies a hard foot. The suspension absorbs bumps smoothly, though a subtle “jiggle” can be heard over rough roads. The only notable drawback is a slight wheel slip in tight turns, a common trait in front‑wheel‑drive vehicles.
Range and Efficiency: Real‑World Numbers Matter
The EV5’s 81‑kWh battery promises a range of 313 miles on paper, while the EV3 claims over 360 miles. In practice, the EV5 averages about 2.5 miles per kWh, translating to roughly 204 miles of real‑world range. This is noticeably lower than the EV3’s real‑world performance, which achieved 88% of its claimed range. The larger battery, heavier body, and boxier shape contribute to higher energy consumption, making the EV5 less efficient than its smaller sibling.
Practicality, Value, and Buying Advice
Pricing starts at £39,000 for the base model and rises to £47,000 for the top‑trim GT Line S. While the EV5 offers more space and features, it is about £3,000 pricier than the EV3. For buyers prioritising interior room and tech, the extra cost may be justified; for those focused on efficiency and lower running costs, the EV3 remains a better value.
Leasing the EV5 is not recommended, as the depreciation over a lease term would cost around £23,000, whereas buying outright would only incur about £17,000 in depreciation. Purchasing the EV5 directly, or even opting for a used EV9, can provide better long‑term value. The EV5 also comes with a seven‑year warranty, offering peace of mind for potential buyers.
Overall, the EV5 delivers a compelling package for families who need extra space and appreciate a bold design. Its performance is solid, though not exceptional, and its real‑world range falls short of the EV3’s. Buyers should weigh the trade‑offs between size, features, and efficiency when deciding between the EV5 and its smaller counterpart.
Key Takeaways
The Kia EV5 stands out with its boxy, rugged styling, spacious interior, and a suite of tech features that enhance daily driving. Its performance is respectable, but the heavier weight and larger battery reduce efficiency compared to the EV3. Pricing and depreciation considerations suggest that buying outright is preferable to leasing. For families seeking a roomy, feature‑rich electric SUV, the EV5 is a strong contender; for those prioritising range and cost, the EV3 remains the smarter choice.