Kia EV5 makes its ASEAN debut in Thailand, starting from RM 162k

KUALA LUMPUR: Kia unveiled three new electric models - EV3, EV4, and EV5 - at its annual EV Day in Korea last year, reaffirming its commitment to leading the electric vehicle revolution. Among these, the EV5 has recently made its debut in the ASEAN region.

Kia Thailand has officially launched the EV5 at the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show 2024. It is offered in four variants - Light, Air, Earth, and Long Range, price ranging between THB 1.249 million (RM 162k) and THB 1.749 million (RM 227k).

The Kia EV5 is a compact electric SUV, which targets the needs and desires of millennial families. It underpins the brand’s dedicated EV platform, E-GMP, and introduces a new era of electric mobility and distinctive SUV design. 

The lower trims are equipped with an electric motor dishing out a maximum power of 217 PS and a peak torque of 310 Nm. It enables the EV to run from zero to 100 kmph in 8.5 seconds. The top-spec version, on the contrary, comes powered by a dual-motor setup tuned to generate 308 PS and 480 Nm with a 0-100 kmph acceleration time of 6.1 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 185 kmph on either set-up.

Feeding the front-wheel drive motor is a 64.2 kWh lithium-ion battery offering a WLTP-claimed range of 490 km. The Long-range and Earth models are mated to an 88.1 kWh battery, delivering exceptional ranges of 665 km and 620 km, respectively

Charging speed varies based on battery size in these models. The 64.2 kWh models offer 7 kW AC charging, taking around 10 hours to fully charge. The larger battery supports 11 kW AC charging, requiring over 8 hours for a full charge. For DC fast charging, the smaller battery charges at 102 kW and the larger one at 141 kW, both reaching 80% capacity in 36 minutes from 10%.

The Kia EV5 boasts an exterior design that embodies the Bold for Nature philosophy, blending boldness with a focus on sustainability. The standout features include the iconic Tiger Face front grille, which adds a touch of aggressiveness to the sleek overall design. The Star Map DRL headlights and Star-Map LED tail lights not only enhance visibility but also contribute to the EV5's distinctive and futuristic look, making it a head-turner in the electric vehicle segment.

Feature kit includes - a massive 29.6-inch touchscreen display for infotainment and instrument cluster, Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Lane Following Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCAA) with Junction Assist, Blind-spot View Monitor, and more.

On the purchase of the EV5, Kia Thailand offers a 7-year manufacturing warranty, an 8-year battery warranty, and a 7-year free maintenance and roadside assistance.

Also read: All-new Kia K4 design revealed; global premiere later this month