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Kia EV5 undercuts Model Y price in Australia – techAU


Kia Australia are adding the EV5 to their lineup of electric vehicles and today announced pricing details. The EV5 is a mid-sized SUV that provides the perfect transition path for those moving from popular ICE vehicles like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CRV.

The EV5 joins the EV6, EV9 and Niro EV options in Australia. What’s impressive about today’s pricing announcement is that Kia are entering the EV5 at an agressive and competitive price point that should appeal to many.

The Kia EV5 starts at A$56,770 Driveaway for the Air trim, which is a Standard Range, front wheel drive variant. This rarely happens, but Kia are actually undercutting the market leader, the Tesla Model Y Standard Range which starts at A$61,200 driveaway (VIC).

For context, the EV5 range is smaller at a max 400km (WLTP) from it’s 64.2kWh LFP battery, compared to the Model Y which offers 455km from a 60kWh battery, showing Tesla still holds the efficiency crown.

Tesla’s aren’t for everyone and those looking for alternatives should certainly consider the EV5. When it comes to the technology, Kia offers a really healthy list of features across the range:

  • Anti-lock braking systems,
  • Electronic stability control,
  • Hill-start Assist,
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (detects cars, pedestrians, cyclists, junctions).
  • Lane keeping assist,
  • Lane following assist 2 (a form of lane centering),
  • Highway Drive Assist 2 (HDA2) with Lane Change Assist (LCA)
  • Blind Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Collision Warning
  • SEW (Safe Exit Warning)
  • DAWS (Driver Attention Warning System) with Lead Vehicle
  • Departure Alert and Forward Attention Monitoring
  • ISLA (Intelligent Speed Limit Assist)
  • Haptic Steering Wheel Feedback
  • Parking Sensors with Dash Display (Front & Rear)
  • Rear View Camera with Dynamic Parking Guidelines
  • Electrochromic Rear View Mirror (Auto Dimming)
  • ROA (Rear Occupant Alert) – Door History Type
  • HBA (High Beam Assist) / Dusk-Sensing Automatic Head Lights
  • Auto Rain Sensing Wipers
  • Door Open Warning on Driver Display
  • Speed Sensing Auto Door Locks
  • Child Restraint Anchorage Points
  • (3 x Top Tether Anchors + 2 x ISOFIX positions)
  • Smart Key Remote (x2) With Remote Engine Start

For those looking for more features with higher budgets, can consider the GT-Line AWD for A$75,990 Driveaway.

EV5 marks a significant milestone in Kia’s global journey to increase access and take-up of electric vehicles. As we affirm our commitment to becoming a leading sustainable mobility provider, we’re pleased to announce pricing and key features that give EV5 a competitive edge in the local electric vehicle market.

Kia Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Damien Meredith,

The EV5 is available across three trimlines; Air, Earth, and GT-Line (December arrival). The Air is offered with a FWD powertrain, while Earth and GT-Line are powered by an AWD powertrain.

Based on the N3-ek platform, the EV5 brings standard and long-range electrified power to the medium SUV segment. Air is powered by either a standard range 64.2 KwH battery or long-range 88.1 KwH battery, while Earth and GT-Line variants are offered solely with the long-range battery.

The EV5 has undergone an extensive local ride and handling program to ensure it is suitable for Australia’s unique road conditions The EV5 seamlessly blends into the Kia model line-up embracing the Opposites United design language whilst having its own unique SUV silhouette.

The front-end design includes a wide nose and solid bonnet, rugged lower skid plate and constellation-shaped ‘Star Map’ signature lighting. The side view shows folding door handles, roof rails and alloy wheels.

The Kia EV5 rear provides ‘Star Map’ LED rear tail lamp, a rugged lower skid plate and an aerodynamic rear spoiler.

Taking inspiration from the award-winning EV9, the EV5’s interior space sets a new standard for design and practicality, while providing new levels of driver enjoyment and user experience.

All EV5 grades come with dual 12.3” displays with a 5” bridging segment, equipped with the new ccNC unit through Kia’s updated GUI (Graphical User Interface). The EV5’s integrated panoramic display with climate monitoring presents and intuitive driver experience.

Comfort and convenience features across the range include Kia Connect, OTA updates and a column type Shift-by-Wire (SBW), while a Smart Power Tailgate is available on Earth and GT-Line trims.

Features exclusive to the top of the range GT-Line include Heated and Cooling Storage, Fingerprint Module, Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR-HUD) and Remote Smart Park Assist 2 (RSPA 2).

The Kia EV5 has all of the active and passive safety technology one would expect in a new Kia. Safety features included on all trims includes Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) and a centre side airbag, with a Blind Spot View Monitor (BVM) available on the EV5 GT-Line.

The Kia EV5 will be available in a variety of exterior colours including two-tone options exclusive to the GT-Line. The choice doesn’t stop there with the Earth grade’s artificial leather interior provided in both Smokey Black and Nougat Beige (on select exterior colours).

Pricing and Model details

The Kia EV5 enters the electric SUV market with a diverse lineup, offering a model for various needs and preferences.

EV5 Air 2WD Standard Range

The entry-level EV5 provides a solid foundation with an approachable price, targeting those who prioritise value and primarily drive in urban environments.

  • Battery: 64.2 kWh
  • Powertrain: 2WD Single Motor
  • Power/Torque: 160 kW / 310 Nm
  • Wheels: 18” Alloys
  • WLTP Range: 400 km
  • Driveaway Price: $56,770

EV5 Air 2WD Long Range

If range is your priority, the Long Range model delivers with an impressive 555km WLTP figure. This makes it ideal for road trips and those who want to minimize charging stops.

  • Battery: 88.1 kWh
  • Powertrain: 2WD Single Motor
  • Power/Torque: 160 kW / 310 Nm
  • Wheels: 18” Alloys
  • WLTP Range: 555 km
  • Driveaway Price: $63,990

EV5 Earth AWD Long Range

The Earth AWD adds a dual-motor setup for all-wheel drive capability and a boost in performance. With a still-impressive 500km range, it offers a balance of practicality and dynamic driving.

  • Battery: 88.1 kWh
  • Powertrain: AWD Dual Motor
  • Power/Torque: 230 kW / 480 Nm
  • Wheels: 19” Alloys
  • WLTP Range: 500 km
  • Driveaway Price: $68,990

EV5 GT-Line AWD Long Range

The flagship GT-Line combines the performance of the AWD system with sportier styling and larger 20″ wheels. While the range slightly decreases, it prioritizes a more engaging driving experience and premium features.

  • Battery: 88.1 kWh
  • Powertrain: AWD Dual Motor
  • Power/Torque: 230 kW / 480 Nm
  • Wheels: 20” Alloys
  • WLTP Range: 470 km
  • Driveaway Price: $75,990


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