Summary
- Kia EV5 positioned between EV6 and EV3 crossovers
- EV5 uses e-GMP platform shared with Hyundai Ioniq 5 and others
- Kia has no plans to offer EV5 in the U.S.
- Similar to Kia Soul EV, EV5 may only be available in Canada
- EV5 has been a successful model in Asia, but reasons for not offering in the U.S. are unclear
Article
Introduction
The Kia EV5 is a compact electric crossover that sits between the EV6 and EV3 models. Despite being manufactured on the same Hyundai Motor Group E-GMP platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, Kia has no plans to offer the EV5 in the U.S. market.
Unique Canadian Market
Canada’s automotive market differs from the U.S. in terms of tastes, needs, and economic conditions. As a result, certain models or trims may be exclusive to Canada and not available in the U.S. The Kia EV5 looks to be one of these Canada-only specials, following in the footsteps of the Canada-exclusive Kia Soul EV.
Design and Specifications
The Kia EV5 is a compact electric crossover that resembles a downsized version of the EV9 but shares similar dimensions with the Toyota RAV4. It utilizes the 400-volt version of the e-GMP platform, distinguishing it from the EV6, which utilizes the 800-volt variant. Despite these differences, the EV5 has seen success in markets such as China.
International Success
The Kia EV5 is currently produced in China and Singapore and sold in various Asian markets. It has played a significant role in Kia’s resurgence in China, helping the brand surpass the 200,000 units sold mark and achieve profitability in the region. However, Kia has stated that there are no plans to offer the EV5 in the U.S.
South Korean Market
While the decision not to offer the EV5 in the U.S. may seem like a missed opportunity, Kia has indicated that the model will be available in Canada. The Canadian version of the EV5 will feature a Tesla-style NACS port, similar to other Hyundai and Kia models. There is still uncertainty regarding the pricing and production location for the Canadian market.
Future Possibilities
Despite the current stance on the U.S. market, there have been conflicting reports regarding the potential introduction of the EV5 in North America. Kia’s leadership initially suggested the model would be available in the U.S., but later retracted that statement. The EV5 will be showcased at the upcoming Canadian International Auto Show, providing consumers with a glimpse of Kia’s latest electric offering.
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