The electric revolution in the Philippines is moving fast, and the compact electric SUV segment just got significantly more competitive. Fresh off its official showcase at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2026, the all-new Kia EV5 has landed.
Taking heavy design inspiration from its massive, flagship sibling—the EV9—the EV5 distills that premium, futuristic aesthetic into a much more accessible and urban-friendly package. Here is a technical breakdown of what makes Kia’s latest fully electric vehicle a serious contender.
Powertrain and Range
Kia designed the EV5 to balance daily drivability with long-range capability, built on a dedicated electric architecture.
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Performance: The EV5 is driven by a front-mounted electric motor that delivers a punchy 214 horsepower. Being an EV, that power translates to immediate, linear torque the second you touch the pedal, making city overtaking and highway merging effortless.
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Battery Capability: Range anxiety is quickly becoming a thing of the past. The EV5 boasts an impressive maximum range of up to 550 kilometers on a single charge. That is more than enough to handle a full week of Metro Manila traffic or a weekend run to the provinces without constantly checking the battery gauge.
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Charging: It supports fast-charging capabilities, allowing the battery to go from a 10% to 80% charge in a matter of minutes at a compatible DC fast-charging station.
Design and Aerodynamics
Visually, the EV5 stands out from the rounded, swept-back look of many modern crossovers. Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy gives it a distinctly bold and boxy stance.
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The Digital Tiger Face: The traditional front grille is gone, replaced by a sharp, geometric front fascia featuring Kia’s signature Star Map lighting.
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Efficiency Meets Style: Despite its muscular, upright silhouette, the design is highly aerodynamic. Flush door handles and specially designed aero-wheels help the EV5 cut through the air with minimal drag, directly contributing to its 550-kilometer range.
Cabin Technology and Practicality
Step inside, and it becomes clear that Kia intended for the EV5 cabin to feel more like a modern, minimalist lounge than a traditional car interior.
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The Digital Command Center: The dashboard is dominated by a massive, sweeping panoramic display. This seamlessly integrates the digital instrument cluster with the central infotainment touchscreen, providing the driver with crisp telemetry and intuitive access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the vehicle’s core management systems.
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Space and Comfort: Because it is built on a dedicated EV platform rather than a modified gas-powered chassis, there is no transmission tunnel. This allows for a completely flat floor, vastly improving legroom and overall comfort for all five passengers.
The Verdict
Available in two distinct trims—the GL at ₱2,298,000 and the top-tier GLS at ₱2,698,000—the 2026 Kia EV5 successfully bridges the gap between high-end electric luxury and everyday utility. It offers the aggressive styling of a much larger SUV, packed with the tech and range required to make the switch to full electric a seamless experience.
For those looking to enter the EV space without compromising on versatility, the Kia EV5 demands a spot at the top of the test-drive list.