Make and model: Kia EV5 GT-Line
Description: Electric family SUV
Price range: £42,645 (plus options)
Summary: In an increasingly crowded family electric SUV market, the Kia EV5 is a very strong contender. It focuses on space, comfort and everyday usability, and Kia’s seven-year new car warranty adds welcome reassurance.
For a broader ownership picture, see our Kia EV5 Expert Rating, which combines media reviews, safety data, reliability, running costs and warranty cover.
Introduction
The Kia EV5 is a mid-size electric SUV that sits between the smaller EV3 and the larger EV9 in Kia’s growing electric line-up. In simple terms, it’s the electric alternative to the Kia Sportage – a five-seat family SUV designed to sit at the heart of the UK market.
It enters one of the most competitive parts of the new car market, where buyers can choose from dozens of petrol, hybrid and electric SUVs. The EV5 is aimed squarely at families who want to switch to electric power without giving up space or practicality.
It won’t suit everyone. Some rivals offer longer driving range or faster public charging speeds, and Kia’s bold design won’t appeal to all tastes. But on paper at least, it ticks many of the right boxes.
Price and equipment
The EV5 is offered in three trims, starting at around £39,000. Even the entry-level ‘Air’ model comes well equipped, with 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and blind-spot assist as standard.
The GT-Line model tested here adds features such as wireless charging, a power tailgate and heated rear seats for an additional £3,300. The range-topping GT-Line S introduces 19-inch wheels, a head-up display and a premium sound system. A heat pump, which can improve cold-weather efficiency, is optional on higher trims.
Against key electric SUV rivals, the EV5 is competitively priced and well equipped, although it’s not the best in this part of the market for driving range or charging speed.
Inside the car
Inside, the EV5 follows the same design direction as other recent Kia electric models. The layout is clean and logical, with a mix of physical buttons and touchscreen controls. Materials feel solid and well put together, although the colour scheme is dominated by dark grey.
The touchscreen system is one of the better examples currently on sale. It responds quickly and the menus are generally easy to follow. While traditional buttons are often easier to use on the move, Kia has struck a good balance between digital and physical controls.
Space is generous in both the front and rear. Rear passengers have ample legroom and headroom, and the rear seats fold flat to create a practical load space. For families moving from a Kia Sportage or similar SUV, the EV5 should feel entirely familiar in terms of day-to-day usability.
On the road
We tested the EV5 on UK roads in wet winter conditions. From the outset, it feels predictable and easy to drive – exactly what most family buyers will want.
The 81kWh battery and single electric motor produce 214hp, which is more than enough for everyday use. Acceleration is smooth and builds in a predictable way, and once up to speed the EV5 feels refined and composed. There’s little drama, but that’s the point.
Ride comfort is a particular strength, with the EV5 absorbing ruts and broken surfaces well. It stays composed in corners and doesn’t lean excessively – it’s not especially engaging, but it feels stable and is easy to trust.
On wet and slippery roads, it occasionally struggled for grip, even with gentle throttle input. A four-wheel-drive version is due in 2026 for those who regularly drive in poor conditions.
We didn’t have the opportunity to assess real-world efficiency on this short drive, so longer-term consumption figures will depend on driving style and conditions.
Verdict
The Kia EV5 feels like a well-judged addition to Kia’s electric family. It prioritises comfort, space and ease of use over outright performance, and for most households that’s exactly the right approach.
It may not be class-leading for charging speed or driving range, but it delivers where it matters for everyday family life. Combined with Kia’s seven-year new car warranty, the EV5 looks like one of the more reassuring choices in this competitive part of the market.
Additional reporting by Matt MacConnell
We like:
- Quiet and comfortable ride
- Spacious cabin
- Strong standard equipment
We don’t like:
- Not class-leading for public charging speed
- Some rivals offer longer driving range
You can also see how the Kia EV5 performs across safety, reliability, running costs and warranty cover in our full Kia EV5 Expert Rating.
Similar cars
BYD Atto 3 | Cupra Tavascan | Changan Deepal S07 | Ford Explorer | Geely EX5 | KGM Torres EVX | Leapmotor C10 | Mini Countryman Electric | Omoda E5 | Peugeot e-3008 | Renault Scenic E-Tech | Skoda Enyaq | Subaru Solterra | Tesla Model Y | Toyota bZ4X | Vauxhall Grandland Electric | Volkswagen ID.4
Key specifications
Model tested: Kia EV5 GT-Line FWD
Price as tested: £42,645
Powertrain: 81.4kWh battery
Gearbox: Single-speed automatic
Power: 214 hp
Torque: 295 Nm
Top speed: 102 mph
0-62mph: 8.2 seconds
Battery range: 313 miles
CO2 emissions: 0 g/km
Euro NCAP safety rating: Five stars (November 2025)
TCE Expert rating: A (as of February 2026)
