Kia is undercutting rivals in Australia, including Tesla's best-selling Model Y with its new EV5. Can Kia's electric SUV keep up with the competition?
Kia EV5 prices and specifications revealed in Australia
The EV5 was first unveiled at the Chengdu Auto Show last August as a “family-friendly” mid-size electric SUV.
Kia launched the EV5 in China last November with prices starting at around $20,000 (149,800 yuan). The lowest price tag undercuts Tesla's Model Y in China, starting at $34,500 (249,900 yuan).
Although Kia was expected to launch the EV5 in international markets this summer, software updates have delayed those programs.
It looks like Australians won't have to wait long. Kia announced that the EV5 will hit dealerships this month with prices starting at $56,770. In comparison, Tesla's Model Y starts at $58,700 in Australia.
The electric SUV will be available in three variants: Air, Earth, and GT-Line. It will also offer two battery options.
The smaller battery (64.2 kWh) offers a range of up to 400 km (250 miles), while the larger option (88.1 kWh) offers a range of up to 555 km (345 miles).
At 4,615 mm long, 1,875 mm wide, and 1,715 mm tall, Kia's EV5 is a direct competitor to the Model Y (4,750 mm x long, 1,921 mm x wide, 1,624 mm x tall).
Inside, the EV5 features Kia's latest ccNC infotainment system with dual 12.3″ driver display and navigation screens.
| Modification of Kia EV5 | Starting Price |
| EV5 Air FWD Standard Range | $56,770 |
| EV5 Air FWD Long Range | $61,170 |
| EV5 Earth AWD Long Range | $64,770 |
| EV5 GT-Line AWD Long Range | $71,770 |
Kia said the EV5 has been “comprehensively tuned for ride and handling to ensure it is suited to Australia's unique road conditions.”
The EV5 was shown during Kia's first EV Day in October as part of its new affordable EV line-up, which includes the EV3 and EV4.
Source: Drive, Kia Australia
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