Kia Unveils EV5 Design for the First Time Worldwide as 'Vanguard for Targeting the Chinese Market'

Kia Reenters Chinese Market with Compact Electric SUV EV5
EV5, Kia's First Electric Vehicle Produced Locally in China
Detailed Product Reveal at Kia EV Day in October

Kia unveiled the design of the EV5, the spearhead for targeting the Chinese market, for the first time in the world at this year's Chengdu International Motor Show. At the same time, Kia expressed its determination to make a fresh leap forward in the Chinese market through the transition to an electric vehicle brand. The compact electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) EV5 is the first electric vehicle produced locally by Kia in China.

On the 25th, Kia revealed the design of the compact electrified SUV model EV5 for the first time in the world at the '2023 Chengdu International Motor Show' held at the Western China International Expo City in Sichuan Province, China. At the event, Kia announced specific plans to target the Chinese market, including the official launch of the EV6 in China alongside the EV5 design reveal.

Kia EV5 Front View
Photo by Kia

The EV5 introduced on this day is the production model of the EV5 concept vehicle unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show last March. The EV5 is the first dedicated electric vehicle produced locally in China. It will first be launched in the Chinese market, with plans to sequentially announce launch plans for other markets. Detailed product information will be disclosed at the 'Kia EV Day' held in Korea this October.

Kim Kyung-hyun, General Manager (Vice President) of Kia China Corporation, said, "Success in China, the world's largest electric vehicle market, is a key task in Kia's global strategy," adding, "We will accelerate the electrification transition with the EV5 at the forefront while providing customers with new experiences and inspiration."

Kia EV5 side view [Photo by Kia]

EV5 Exterior Design, Strong Impression + Futuristic Sophistication

The EV5 was designed based on 'Bold for Nature,' one of the five keywords composing 'Opposites United,' which represents the creative fusion of contrasting concepts. It features a harmonious blend of a strong image and futuristic sophistication.

The front features vertically arranged 'Small Cube Projection LED Headlamps' and 'Starmap LED Daytime Running Lights' inspired by constellations, completing the family look. The side design emphasizes dramatic contrast felt through the dynamic silhouette, the strong shapes of the front and rear fenders, and the richly treated body surfaces in between.

The rear harmonizes LED rear combination lamps with Starmap signature lighting and a tailgate designed with wide and clean surfaces. The shoulder and bumper designs, applied with bold yet detailed shapes, give a strong impression.

Rear view of Kia EV5

Interior Design, Excellent Space Utilization and Differentiated Experience

The interior of the EV5 is conceptualized as a seamless harmony between nature and artificial elements. Thoughtful considerations reflecting its characteristics as a family car are incorporated throughout.

Kia applied a 'Panoramic Wide Display' that combines a 12.3-inch cluster and infotainment system with a 5-inch climate control display in the EV5. Hooks for hanging various shopping bags or bags were installed, and a multifunctional center console providing ample storage space was equipped.

Kia EV5 Interior
Photo by Kia

The EV5’s differentiated seats are useful for everyday life and outdoor activities. The first row features bench-style seats, creating new interior space between the driver and passenger. The second-row seats have a fully flat (0-degree) fold-down function on the seatbacks, making it advantageous for outdoor activities such as car camping.

The trunk floor is equipped with a variable luggage board to enhance trunk usability for loading items or outdoor activities. The luggage board, composed of two front and rear levels, has a semi-automatic front section that rises and features front-to-back sliding functionality. This improves storage convenience and can also be used as a table during camping or travel.

Kia EV5 Trunk
Photo by Kia

Kim Taek-gyun, Executive Director in charge of Kia Next Design, said, "The EV5 is a model that pioneers the compact SUV segment based on Kia’s design philosophy 'Opposites United,'" adding, "It offers innovative experiences to both drivers and passengers while setting new standards for design, performance, and practicality."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.