The highly anticipated 2026 Kia EV5 has officially landed in Australian showrooms, offering a compelling new option in the fiercely competitive mid-size electric SUV segment. Designed to take on heavyweights like the Tesla Model Y and Zeekr 7X, the EV5 brings bold styling, a spacious interior, and impressive technology to the local market.
Priced from $56,770 before on-road costs for the entry-level Air Standard Range, the lineup stretches to $71,770 for the flagship GT-Line Long Range AWD. With its distinctive boxy proportions, the EV5 offers a refreshing departure from the aerodynamic teardrop shapes that dominate the current electric vehicle landscape.
The 2026 Kia EV5 GT-Line features bold, angular styling and distinctive lighting signatures.
Australian pricing and variant lineup
Kia Australia has structured the EV5 range to cater to a variety of budgets and driving needs. The lineup begins with the Air Standard Range, equipped with a 64.2kWh battery and a single front motor. Buyers seeking more distance can step up to the Air Long Range, which introduces a larger 88.1kWh battery pack.
For those requiring all-wheel drive capability, the Earth Long Range AWD adds a rear motor for a combined output of 230kW. Sitting at the top of the range is the GT-Line Long Range AWD, which brings premium features including 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and an augmented reality head-up display.
Variant
Pricing (before on-roads)
Key features
Air Standard Range 2WD
$56,770
12.3-inch dual displays, V2L interior, 400km WLTP range
The EV5 offers a refreshing departure from the aerodynamic teardrop shapes common in the segment.
Battery, range, and performance
The EV5 utilises lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology across the range. The 64.2kWh Standard Range pack delivers up to 400km of WLTP range, while the 88.1kWh Long Range battery extends that figure to an impressive 555km in the front-wheel-drive Air variant. The heavier AWD models sacrifice some efficiency for performance, offering 500km (Earth) and 470km (GT-Line) respectively.
Performance is brisk, particularly in the dual-motor AWD variants. With 230kW of power and 480Nm of torque on tap, the Earth and GT-Line models can dispatch the 0-100km/h sprint in just 6.1 seconds. The front-wheel-drive Air models, producing 160kW and 310Nm, complete the same dash in a respectable 8.5 to 8.9 seconds.
When it comes to charging, all variants feature 11kW three-phase AC capability. DC fast charging peaks at 141kW, allowing for convenient top-ups during road trips. The inclusion of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology means owners can power external appliances directly from the car’s battery, a feature that aligns perfectly with the adventurous lifestyle the EV5 promotes.
The cabin is dominated by an integrated panoramic display, combining two 12.3-inch screens with a 5-inch climate control panel.
Interior technology and practicality
Inside, the EV5 impresses with a highly practical and tech-forward cabin. The dashboard is defined by an integrated panoramic display that combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 5-inch climate control panel, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Despite the screen-heavy layout, Kia has wisely retained physical buttons for crucial functions.
The GT-Line variant elevates the experience further, offering a fingerprint authenticator, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and heated and ventilated front seats with massage functionality for the driver. An unusual but welcome touch is the inclusion of heated and cooled rear storage, perfect for keeping drinks at the right temperature on long journeys.
Practicality is a strong point, with up to 1,714 litres of cargo space available when the rear seats are folded flat.
Practicality is a major drawcard for the EV5. The boot offers a generous 513 litres of space with the rear seats in place, expanding to a cavernous 1,714 litres when folded flat. A 67-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet provides additional secure storage for charging cables and smaller items. The EV5 can also tow up to 1,250kg braked, adding further versatility for weekend adventures.
Safety and ownership
Safety is paramount in the EV5, which achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2024. The comprehensive suite of active safety systems includes autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot detection as standard. The GT-Line adds advanced features such as a blind spot view monitor, surround view monitor, and remote smart park assist.
The EV5 cabin features multi-colour ambient lighting and high-quality materials throughout.
Kia continues to offer strong aftersales support, backing the EV5 with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and a matching seven-year warranty for the high-voltage battery. Service plans are available for three, five, or seven years, providing peace of mind for long-term ownership.
With its striking design, practical interior, and competitive pricing, the 2026 Kia EV5 is set to be a strong contender in the Australian market. Whether you are looking for a capable family SUV or considering a rental to test the electric lifestyle, the EV5 represents a significant step forward for the brand.
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