Kia has added the EV5 to its electric SUV lineup, a mid-sized model that offers a practical alternative to the popular Sportage. Slightly larger than the Sportage, the EV5 borrows its bold, boxy design from the larger EV9, giving it a strong road presence and ample cabin space for family and luggage.
Trim Levels and Specifications
Three trim levels are available: Air, GT-Line, and GT-Line S, with an AWD version and a sporty GT model on the way. All models feature distinctive front light clusters, tough bumpers, squared-off wings, sculpted wheel arches, vertical rear lights, a large tailgate, and 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels. The cabin houses three infotainment screens merged behind a curved panel: the left screen handles entertainment, the middle controls climate, and the right displays driving data like speed and range.
Powered by a long-range 81.4 kWh battery, the EV5 has a claimed range of up to 329 miles. Prices start from just over £39,000 and go up to £47,145 for the top-of-the-range model. Standard equipment includes a reversing camera, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, while the range topper adds powered heated and ventilated seats with a massage function. The car also features fingerprint recognition technology for storing driver preferences and an AI personal assistant.
Performance and Driving Experience
With 214 bhp, the EV5 achieves a top speed of 102 mph and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 8.4 seconds. While some rivals in this segment are more dynamic, the EV5 cruises comfortably on the motorway and handles twisting country roads with balance. The steering is well-weighted and offers good feedback. An i-Pedal setting allows one-pedal driving, bringing the car to a standstill without touching the brakes. Four drive modes and steering wheel paddles adjust the regenerative braking strength. The suspension smooths out rough roads, providing a refined ride.
The boot offers 566 litres of space, expanding to 1,650 litres with the 60:40 split rear seats folded flat. Additional storage is available inside the cabin. Charging from 10 to 80 per cent takes 30 minutes on a rapid charger, 70 minutes on a 50 kW outlet, and 7 hours 20 minutes on an 11 kW port for a full charge. The EV5 holds a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and comes with the Kia seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty, with an eight-year battery warranty.
John Murdoch noted that the cabin felt a little dark and bland, but the car's strong features may make it as popular as the Sportage.
Ineos Grenadier Military Collaboration
In a separate development, Ineos Automotive, SMT Defence, and NMS UK have formed Team Grenadier, a UK-anchored industrial collaboration to deliver a range of vehicles for the UK Ministry of Defence based on the Ineos Grenadier platform. The partnership addresses the MoD's Light Mobility Vehicle programme by combining the Grenadier's 4x4 capability with specialist systems integration expertise.
The Grenadier Multi-Role Light Vehicle (MRLV) is one of nine modular LMV applications, each built on the Grenadier's ladder-frame chassis, permanent four-wheel drive, beam axles, and high payload capacity. The platform is already proven in demanding environments by fire, police, and rescue services worldwide.
Mike Whittington, chief commercial officer of Ineos Automotive, said: "A defining advantage of the industrial collaboration is its British ownership, onshore assembly and local supply chain. It brings strategic benefits in operational independence and resilience with security and regulatory alignment - delivering on the MoD's core objectives. Grenadier's unrivalled capability and inherent strength provide an obvious starting point for mission-critical transport."
