Video by Leah Carroll. Words by Donal Byrne.
The electric family mid-sized SUV segment is a crowded space these days, and for good reason. Not only do cars like the Volkswagen ID4, Skoda Enyaq and the Tesla Model Y sell well, but they are now perhaps more profitable for car manufacturers than ever.
That's why Kia has moved to enter this space with an EV alternative to its Sportage - the third most popular car model in Ireland. It is not a replacement for the Sportage, however. The Sportage will continue as a diesel, hybrid and plug-in alongside this new EV 5.
In terms of looks, the EV5 owes a good deal to Kia’s recent design language - boxy but sharp. There are narrow LED lights, flush door handles, a hidden rear wiper and a sloping spoiler.
It’s the interior that is the surprising part, however. It is very spacious because it is longer than the Sportage and, according to Kia, it is now the tallest car in its segment.
Upfront, it’s very comfortable, and the rear is even better. A fully flat floor adds to legroom, and headroom is very generous. However, even though there are three seats, it’s really a comfortable two-seater back there.
A brief initial drive revealed a car that seemed well-tuned for Irish conditions, with peppy enough acceleration and a smooth delivery of power. There are different driving modes, ranging from normal to snow, but most drivers will probably opt for normal or eco, with the latter designed to stretch the range and make the most use of regenerative braking.
The driving position is high, and there’s even an AI assistant on board.
There are three versions, whose prices depend on specification, but all share one 81.kWh battery and a 160 kW motor. It has a claimed range of 530 kilometres, but the usual caveat applies about claimed ranges and real-world driving returns. For example, the better-equipped versions of the car run on 19" wheels, which will reduce maximum range.
Charging capacity is up to 150kW, giving a theoretical maximum charge time from 10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes on a fast charger.
The entry-level Earth 2 versions have 18" wheels, cloth upholstery and a power tailgate. Heated front and rear seats also come as standard.
Kia’s three-screen layout is front and centre, with 12.3" screens for driver information and infotainment and a smaller screen for easy climate controls, lessening the distraction factor.
The boot has a very generous 566 litres that can increase to 1,650 litres with the rear seats folded fully flat.
The warranty is for seven years, including the battery, up to 150,000 kilometres.
