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Overview


Kia Corporation, the South Korean automotive manufacturer is fast developing a portfolio of lower-emission ‘eco’ vehicles, to include, zero-tailpipe emission battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and mild hybrids. The Korean automotive company is headquartered in Seoul, and it is South Korea’s second largest automotive manufacturer after the Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai owns a 33.88% stake in Kia Corporation). At one point, the US automotive manufacturer, Ford Motor Company, also owned a stake in Kia.

Kia was founded in June 1944, and was formerly known as Kyungsung Precision Industry. It has also been previously known as Kia Motors Corporation. The Kia name has been derived from the Sino-Korean characters, ‘ki’ (arise) & ‘a’ (Asia) to suggest ‘Rising from Asia’. The Kia Corporation has been active in the European markets since 1991. The Kia electric vehicle (EV) portfolio includes both, battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models: 



Electric Cars: The Basics


For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles:


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The All-Electric Kia EV5 SUV


If you like the all-electric Kia EV3 compact SUV, but need a larger family SUV, the all-electric mid-size Kia EV5 SUV is certainly an option to consider. Of course, if you need a lot more space, then the all-electric Kia EV9 is more suitable. The Kia EV5 is an all-electric alternative to the Kia Sportage. The Kia EV 5 is manufactured in South Korea.

The all-electric SUV segment has witnessed some fierce competition over the recent years, in particular, the compact and mid-size segments. Good news for consumers, given the incredible basket of e-SUV’s on offer today across all price segments. Not so good news for automotive manufacturers (OEMs) who need to work harder to garner the attention of buyers. The Kia EV5 certainly has its work cut out, but is well positioned to deliver, given Kia’s impressive track record in the development and production of electric vehicles (EVs). The Kia EV5 was launched in July 2025.

The five-door (C segment) Kia EV5 SUV has been developed and built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) with 400 Volt architecture. The Kia EV3 uses the same EV platform. The Kia EV5 is available in two EV battery sizes (not in all markets): entry-level 64.2 kWh (396.8 V) and 88.1 kWh (399.4 V). The 64.2 kWh (standard range) is only available as a front-wheel drive (FWD), while the 88.1 kWh (Long Range) variant is available as a both, a 2WD and an all-wheel drive (AWD). If both EV battery options are available in your market, we at e-zoomed would recommend to not ‘jump’ to the conclusion that the larger EV battery is the better.

Many families do not commute long distances on a regular basis, with most of their day-to-day driving needs within the local vicinity i.e. school runs, local high street, local supermarkets, local gym etc. The 64.2 kWh option is more than sufficient for these day-to-day needs and also for shorter motorway journeys. However, if you regularly drive long distances on the motorway, then the 88.1 kWh option is more suitable. Kia offers as standard 8 years or 100,000 miles warranty for the high-voltage EV battery.

For those of you new to electric driving, there are a number of advantages of choosing a smaller EV battery. The obvious one is tag price i.e. the variant will be cheaper. But there are other significant advantages, some not so obvious. As an example, the larger the onboard EV battery, the greater the weight of the electric vehicle (EVs) and the lower the efficiency. In general, the higher the efficiency of an electric car, the longer the range per kWh of battery capacity.

An EV battery is usually between 20% to 30% of the total weight of the EV. The 64.2 kWh is 428 kg, while the 88.1 kWh is 574 kg. The total weight of the Kia EV5 is over 2 ton. In electric cars, the battery is usually placed on the floor of the e-vehicle. This helps with both, the weight distribution and also the centre of gravity of the vehicle. Key factors related to the handling and performance of the battery-electric vehicle (BEV).

Another advantage of a smaller EV battery is the life-cycle emissions of the EV. In general, the larger the EV battery, the higher the life-cycle emissions of the electric vehicle. However, it is worth noting that pure electric cars offer far lower life-cycle emissions compared to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles, also known as an internal combustion engine (ICE). In fact, an-all electric car offers the opportunity to reduce life-cycle emissions up to an astounding 70% compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. Bottom-line, electric cars are good for both the wallet and the environment.

The 88.1 kWh front-wheel drive (FWD) variant has 329 miles WLTP claimed range on a full charge. Even adjusting for real-world driving conditions, the variant should be able to deliver up to 280 miles. The 88.1 kWh all-wheel drive (AWD) variant has 313 miles WLTP claimed range. Again, adjusting for real-world driving conditions, expect the electric SUV to deliver up to 270 miles. Put another way expect the real-world miles per kWh to be just over 3 miles per kWh.

The Kia EV5 incorporates a 11 kW AC onboard charger as standard. For those with access to three-phase (11 kW) EV charging at home, work or public EV charging destinations, the 88.1 kWh EV battery will take up to 7 hours and 15 minutes to fully charge. Single-phase (7.4 kW) EV charging will take longer. The Kia EV5 incorporates 150 kW DC rapid charging as standard. The EV can be charged 10%-80% in 30 minutes.

For home charging we recommend the use of a smart EV charger which is solar compatible. We at e-zoomed also encourage EV owners to install on-site (home or business) solar PV and battery storage. It is a fantastic way to leverage the potential for lower cost of ownership of an electric car, and also achieve ‘well-to-wheel’ zero-tailpipe emissions. We at e-zoomed offer a number of fantastic solar PV and battery storage bundle offers!

In terms of dimensions, the five-seat Kia EV5 is 4.61m long and 167m tall (187m wide). In comparison, the all-electric Kia EV3 is 4.30m long and 1.57m tall (1.85m wide). The EV5 has a 44 L frunk (perfect for storing a shorter length EV cable) and a 566 L boot (up to 1,650 L with rear seats folded down). In comparison, the EV3 has a 25 L frunk and a 460 L boot. The Kia EV5 is a fraction longer, wider and taller than the Kia Sportage. The five-door Kia EV5 family SUV offers ample legroom and headroom for adults seated in the rear, even the taller ones. The rear seats recline and all around visibility is very good.

There is even a massage option on offer. The tailgate is power-operated. The interior of the cabin is not as premium as one would have hoped but the practicality of storage within the cabin makes up for it, along with physical buttons for climate control. Kia uses sustainable materials to include, bio plastic, bio paint, recycled carpet, recycled PET and bio-PU.

In terms of exterior styling, the ‘boxy’ styling may not be to everyones liking, but we like it, at least from the front. The digital Tiger Face lighting is a good touch. The rear design is less to our liking. According to Kia, the design language echos Kia’s ‘Opposite United’ design philosophy. Despite the boxy styling, Kia has worked hard to make the EV aerodynamically as efficient as possible. Examples include the active air flaps in the front bumper and full body undercover. The Kia EV has a 0.30 Cd drag coefficient.

The Kia EV5 has been awarded a Five-Star Euro NCAP Safety Rating (83% score for an adult occupant protection and 85% for child occupant protection). The EV offers a number of driving aids and a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Some as standard, while others as options depending on the trim level: reversing camera system, parking collision-avoidance assist, remote smart parking assist, rear-cross traffic collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, blind-spot view monitor, 360° surround view monitor and more.  

Other technology & equipment on offer, includes: 12.3″ driver display screen, 5.3″ climate control screen, 12.3″ touchscreen navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, head-up Display (HUD), fingerprint recognition and over-the-air (OTA) functionality. In general, the EV incorporates a number of these as standard, further enhancing the attractiveness of the family electric SUV. However, it is disappointing to note that a heat pump is not offered as standard on the variants. Also on offer is vehicle-to-load (V2L) 3.6 kW functionality. e-zoomed offers a vast range of V2L EV cables at fantastic prices!

The 88.1 kWh Kia EV5 delivers up to 214 HP/ torque: 295 Nm. The EV can achieve 0-62 mph in 8.4 seconds. The top speed of the EV is 102 mph. It certainly will not set the heart racing, but again, this is not a sports car. It is a family SUV! The EV5 incorporates Kia’s new i-Pedal 3.0 system allowing drivers to adjust the level of regenerative braking. To learn more about one-pedal driving, follow this link. The EV has five driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, MyDrive and Snow.

Is the Kia EV5 a good car? We believe the premium electric SUV has much to offer, in particular, for those families seeking a capable and practical pure electric SUV that is value for money. Prices for the Kia EV5 electric SUV start from £39,345. Other options to consider are the all-electric BYD Sealion 7 SUV and the all-electric Skoda ENYAQ SUV.

Company-car drivers can take advantage of the lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rate for pure electric cars. Bottom-line, electric driving is good for the environment and the wallet. You can lease electric vehicles (EVs), to include, Salary Sacrifice, via e-zoomed at very competitive prices!



PROS CONS
Offers strong practicality for families. Good electric range and spacious Two battery options and all-wheel drive (AWD) variant not available in all markets
Value for money Some materials in the cabin cheap
Five-Star Euro NCAP Safety Rating V2L, heat pump not standard on all variants

Gallery


The All-Electric Kia EV5 SUV (credit: Kia)


At A Glance
EV Type: Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Body Type: SUV
Engine: Electric
Available In UK: Yes

Variants (2 Options)
Kia EV5 64.2 kWh (from £N/A)
Kia EV5 88.1 kWh (from £39,345)

EV Battery & Emissions
EV Battery Type: Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)/ NMC
EV Battery Capacity: Available in two battery sizes: 64.2 kWh (396.8 V)/ 88.1 kWh (399.4 V)
Charging: 150 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 30 minutes). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 7 hrs 15 mins)
Charge Port: Type 2
Charge Port Location: Front Left
EV Cable Type: Type 2
Tailpipe Emissions: 0g (CO2/km)
EV Battery Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles

Average Cost Of Residential Charging
Battery net capacity : 16.7 kWh £2.40
Battery net capacity : 30.0 kWh £4.32
Battery net capacity : 39.2 kWh £5.64
Battery net capacity : 45.0 kWh £6.48
Battery net capacity : 50.0 kWh £7.20
Battery net capacity : 64.0 kWh £9.22
Battery net capacity : 71.0 kWh £10.22
Battery net capacity : 77.0 kWh £11.09
Battery net capacity : 90.0 kWh £12.96
Battery net capacity : 100.0 kWh £14.40
  • Note 1: The average cost of residential electricity in the UK varies depending on the region, supplier and type of energy used. An average for the UK is 14.40 p/kWh.
  • Note 2: Not all EV manufactures make available the data on net EV battery capacity, and in a number of instances the EV battery capacity advertised, does not state if it is gross or net capacity. In general, usable EV battery capacity is between 85% to 95% of the gross available capacity.

Charging Times (Overview)
Slow charging AC (3 kW – 3.6 kW): 6 – 12 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SOC)
Fast charging AC (7 kW – 22 kW): 3 – 8 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC)
Rapid charging AC (43 kW): 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC)
Rapid charging DC (50 kW+): 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC)
Ultra rapid charging DC (150 kW+): 0-80% : 20 mins to 40 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC)
Tesla Supercharger (120 kW – 250 kW): 0-80%: up to 25 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC)
  • Note 1: SoC: state of charge

Dimensions
Height (mm): 1675
Width (mm): 1875
Length (mm): 4615
Wheelbase (mm): 2750
Turning Circle (m): 11.7
Boot Capacity (L): 566 (up to 1,650 L with rear seats folded down)
Frunk (L): 44

EV5 88.1 kWh FWD
EV Battery Capacity: 88.1 kWh
Pure Electric Range (WLTP): 329 miles
Electric Energy Consumption (Wh/Km): N/A
Miles per kWh: 3.73
Charging: 150 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 30 minutes). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 7 hrs 15 mins)
Top Speed: 102 mph
0-62 mph: 8.4 seconds
Drive: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Electric Motor (kW): 160
Max Power (bhp): 214
Torque (Nm): 295
Transmission: Automatic
Seats: 5
Doors: 5
Kerb Weight (kg): 2,340
Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): 1,200
Colours: 5
NCAP Safety Rating: Five-Star

EV5 88.1 kWh AWD
EV Battery Capacity: 88.1 kWh
Pure Electric Range (WLTP): 313 miles
Electric Energy Consumption (Wh/Km): N/A
Miles per kWh: 3.55
Charging: 150 kW DC Rapid Charging (10%-80%: 30 minutes). Onboard AC charger: 11 kW AC (0%-100%: 7 hrs 15 mins)
Top Speed: 102 mph
0-62 mph: 8.5 seconds
Drive: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Electric Motor (kW): 160
Max Power (bhp): 214
Torque (Nm): 295
Transmission: Automatic
Seats: 5
Doors: 5
Kerb Weight (kg): 2,650
Towing Capacity (Braked/Unbraked)/ (kg): 1,200
Colours: 5
NCAP Safety Rating: Five-Star

While e-zoomed uses reasonable efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date information, some of the information provided is gathered from third parties and has not been independently verified by e-zoomed. While the information from the third party sources is believed to be reliable, no warranty, express or implied, is made by e-zoomed regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. This disclaimer applies to both isolated and aggregate uses of this information.


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