PEVS 2025: Kia PH previews EV5 ahead of Q1 2026 launch
The Kia EV5 midsize battery-electric crossover will officially be launched in the Philippines by the first quarter of 2026.
This was confirmed on Thursday at the car’s preview at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The EV5 will join the EV6 five-seat crossover and the EV9 three-row crossover in Kia Philippines’ electric-vehicle (EV) lineup.
“Electrification is reshaping the way we move, bringing new possibilities to how we drive and live,” said Kia Philippines managing director Jay Lopez in a press statement.
“For Kia, this year marks the next phase of our evolution, a renewed commitment to innovation that moves people forward through both advanced electric vehicles and ever-efficient fuel-powered models,” he added.
EV9 Lite
The EV5 features dramatic styling that is heavily inspired by the larger EV9, which was launched locally last October 2024.
The slender LED daytime running lights largely make up this Kia’s face, running all across the hoodline and terminating with the LED headlights. This is complemented by the intricate lower grill that features gloss-black and matte-silver trim for a clean yet sporty appearance.
Down the side, the EV5 again carries over styling cues from the EV9, such as the two-tone alloy wheels and the beltline that sweeps upwards towards the D-pillar. The blacked-out A-pillar and blocky side mirrors give this electric crossover a futuristic edge.
The EV5 features a very flat tailgate, courtesy of the lightly sloped rear windscreen and pert rear bumper. Black protective cladding on the bumpers and fenders add a rugged vibe to this all-electric vehicle.
Airy cabin
Kia has long been known for using lighter colors to make their interiors less gloomy – this tradition carries on in the EV5, which incorporates brighter hues on the dashboard and door cards.
Other neat features include the futuristic four-spoke steering wheel and the panoramic digital display that integrates the gauge cluster and the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Surprisingly, Kia has turned to the past to help clear up its center console by placing its gear selector on the steering column.
Although final Philippine specifications are not yet available as of press time, the EV5 is available in other countries with ventilated front seats with driver’s side massage function, a panoramic moonroof, a wireless charging pad and rear tables.
Quick yet safe
What Kia Philippines has revealed, however, is the EV5’s expected powerplant.
The preview unit at PEVS has an 88.1-kWh battery pack mated to a front-mounted electric motor for a combined output of 214 horsepower and 310 Newton-meters of torque. Kia Philippines said the EV5 has an estimated maximum range of 550 kilometers on a single charge, along with vehicle-to-load technology that allows users to power external devices directly from the vehicle.
In addition, EV5 owners can expect foolproof safety features, courtesy of Kia’s DriveWise advanced driver assistance system. Meanwhile, Kia Philippines said the EV5 will have once-a-year preventive maintenance schedule to smake ownership convenient, safe and worry-free.
“Kia’s journey toward electrification is a shared one,” said Lopez. “Through strong partnerships, innovation, and our dedication to customers, we aim to move the Philippines closer to a cleaner and more connected mobility future.”
Although pricing has yet to be announced, the EV5 will likely be priced under the P3,788,000 EV6 GT-Line and the P5,938,000 EV9 GT-Line. Do you think the upcoming 2026 Kia EV5 will bring more Filipino families into the battery EV lifestyle?
