The Kia EV5 has a value-for-money skillset, with the looks to boot
WITH INTEREST in electrified vehicles understandably on the rise, ACMobility affiliate Kia Philippines recently launched the Kia EV5 at the 2026 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) — complementing its previously released six-seater battery electric vehicle EV9 (priced at P5.938 million) with a more affordable, albeit more compact all-electric SUV sibling priced from as low as P2.298 million.
“Velocity” and select media and content creators got a chance to preview the model that, according to ACMobility CEO Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, “underscores (the company’s) commitment to bridging global innovation with local needs, fully supported by the Philippine EV Spine, our nationwide charging backbone.”
Kia Philippines Network Development and Training Sales Trainer Angelo Bencie Cuenca identifies four “key strengths” (selling points, if you will) in the EV5 that are highlighted for customers-to-be: instant electric performance, long driving range, advanced driver assistance features, and “smart and spacious interior” owing to tech and practical appointments. The EV5 rises on a purpose-built EV platform, with its front wheels driven by a permanent magnet synchronous motor (also mounted in the front) developing 217ps and 310Nm — pretty adequate as we discovered during a recent preview at Ayala’s sprawling Nuvali property in Laguna.
The EV5 comes in two variants: the GLS (P2.698 million), which we tested, and the GL (P2.298 million). The significant difference lies in the battery. The GLS receives a high-capacity 88.1-kWh battery pack — translating to a range of about 550 kilometers; the GL gets a 64.2-kWh battery promising 400 kilometers between charging sessions.
Bearing Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, the Kia EV5 receives a so-called Digital Tiger Nose Grille with Star Map LED illumination for a unique light signature, while still adhering to the general look of its electrified Kia brethren. It rolls on 18-inch alloys, while the GLS additionally gets a sunroof.
Throttle inputs are rewarded satisfyingly with instantaneous torque without lag, as in most full-electric vehicles. The EV5 didn’t feel heavy, with NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels kept low — largely because an internal combustion engine is absent. The air-conditioning is very vigorous, a welcome feature because we were shooting on a very hot and sunny day.
Sharp, futuristic design in the cabin reflects the angular execution within. A floating all-digital screen houses the central infotainment (with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), the instrument cluster, and climate setting information and control sandwiched between the two. Although generally clear and intuitive, the view to the climate settings can be blocked by the steering wheel.
Having said that, separate key climate-related buttons are located front and center in the EV5. Many will certainly appreciate this convenience instead of having these all collected in the infotainment touchscreen like in some models — making it a little difficult to get to them.
The driver’s seat is electronically adjustable, with seats getting an interesting cloth-leather mix. There are plenty of interior touches that scream “upmarket.” The front passenger seat gets an “appendage” on the left side that extends to just before the driver’s seat. Apparently described as a “love seat,” this feature is thoughtful in that it provides just enough space underneath the stowable armrest for things such as a small bag, instead of having to place them on the floor. There’s also a sleeve where you can slide in or clip on a sundry of articles.
Like other self-respecting EVs, the EV5 offers increased utility through Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities so it can power external devices and such. Kia Philippines touts the EV5’s five-star safety rating from the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) — achieved across its range of variants there. “Driving confidence is further enhanced by Kia Drive Wise, the brand’s comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS),” the company explains. Its slew of skills here are Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, Surround View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitor, and Lane Follow Assist. Other standard safety features include Multi-Collision Brake, Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Stability Control, Downhill Brake Control, and Hill Ascent Control.
Second-row space is decent for a couple of adults. A third could be feasible, but not ideal. Having said that, the flat floor does help in this regard. The B-pillar-mounted A/C vents on the left and the right are a fresh touch, as are the two USB-C charge points located on the back of both seats.
Kia Philippines says that each purchase comes with a “comprehensive Home Charging Package,” which includes a home charger and P25,000 subsidy for standard home installation, backed by a two-year warranty. Also tucked in is P2,000 in “charging credits” valid at any ACMobility EC Charging Station for a year.
For more information, visit www.kiaphilippines.com or follow Kia Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
