Range anxiety dispelled
The new midsize EV5 is now available from $67,990 with its two-wheel-drive (2WD) trims offering an emissions-free WLTP range in excess of 500km.
“An attainable price and impressive range are two factors which consistently rank highly on an electric-car buyers’ consideration list,” says Todd McDonald, managing director of Kia NZ.
“With the EV5, it’s possible to have a great price and range, as well as a huge array of additional performance, technology, safety and comfort features.
“This all-new model follows in the footsteps of the larger EV9, opening up a world of exciting possibilities for families who desire a competitively priced midsize EV without any issues surrounding range anxiety.”
The EV5 was created using Kia’s “opposites united” design language with aesthetics enhanced with a new version of the marque’s “digital tiger face” incorporating a new lighting signature.
“From a looks perspective, it shares a strong resemblance with its larger EV9 stablemate,” notes McDonald. “It displays a prominent DNA which identifies it not only as a Kia, but also as one of the models from our range of fully electric vehicles.”
Trim options include Light, Light+, Earth and GT-Line. Two different drivetrains are available depending on which trim level is selected.
The Light and Light+ are available as 2WD, the Earth is available as 2WD or optional all-wheel drive and the GT-Line is AWD.
The combined system output of the 2WDs is 160kW of power and 310Nm of torque, which increases to 230kW and 480Nm for the AWD versions.
“Exceptional” levels of interior space are on offer in the EV5 and comfort is complemented with innovative packaging options.
The cockpit area reveals an integrated panoramic display spanning 29.6 inches. The main display consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, five-inch HVAC display and 12.3-inch sat-nav multimedia system.
The driving-cluster graphics change to match drive-mode select themes, switching between normal, sport, eco and snow. The boot space area of 513 litres increases to 1,713 with the rear seats folded flat.
The new model here has the added benefit of an extensive local tuning, engineering and validation programme.
Earlier this year, 45 engineers covered almost 25,000km in an EV5 prototype and support vehicles. They tested its software and hardware, further enhancing its suitability for our conditions.
Pricing for the Light Long Range variant starts at $67,990, plus GST and on-roads, and tops out at $85,450 for the GT-Line Long Range.
