Practical test of the Kia EV5 GT-Line: a lot of everything

Kia has made considerable progress with its range of electric cars. The electric gap between the EV3 compact SUV and the huge EV9 was recently closed with the EV5, a 4.6-meter-long four-door model that aims to pamper with plenty of space and comfort. The fact that it can crack the 500 electric kilometer mark even without 800-volt technology certainly does not stand in the way of its success. The basic model with "Air" equipment and 160 kW (218 PS) power is available from dealers for 45,990 euros. Customers will have to pay 51,990 euros for the top-of-the-range "GT-Line" version, which we drove.

With its high flanks and mighty 19-inch alloy wheels, the Kia has a full, attention-grabbing stance on the road. The front is smooth and flat, the LED headlights with the framing daytime running lights make a statement. The hood at the front not only conceals the electric motor and power electronics, but also offers space for charging cables and accessories in the 40-liter trunk. The fact that the hood gently swings open with the help of gas pressure lifters is just one of the many convenient features of the EV5. The rear end retains the austere practicality of the design, and it is clear that the hatch can be opened and closed remotely or manually and electrically.

Inside, the interior is functional and, above all, there is plenty of space on all seats. Covered in a leather replica, these can be electrically adjusted at the front and can also be ventilated or heated, although this conveniently applies not only to the seats but also to the backrests. In the rear, the two outer seats can be temperature-controlled, providing excellent head and legroom. The backrests in the rear can also be adjusted, but this is done manually. The backrests fold forward very easily, creating a flat loading area with a low loading sill thanks to the inserted intermediate floor. There is even more space underneath for equipment and accessories, as well as a 230-volt socket for powering external devices. 556 liters fit into the trunk when the rear seat backrests are upright, and the transport volume increases to 1650 liters after folding down. Even the most demanding haulage job should not fail due to the payload, 511 kilograms are permitted. However, anyone looking for towing expertise should take a look at the all-wheel drive version of the EV5. It can tow 600 kilograms more than the front-wheel drive version, which only has a payload of 1200 kilograms.

Large, smooth surfaces characterize the cockpit of the Kia. The dashboard is dominated by the two-part display, each with 12.3-inch monitors. The driving data and charging functions are shown on the left-hand side, while the navigation, media library and assistant functions are grouped together on the right-hand side. The menus are functionally structured and hold no secrets; the large number of manual controls, for example for direct control of the air conditioning and audio functions, is surprising and helpful. The lane assistant can also be switched off at the touch of a button; in case of doubt, it only gently grips the driver's steering wheel anyway. The warning tone for speed limit violations is also bearable and does not annoy the driver with its shrill nervousness. Operation is therefore extremely easy, only the start button, which brings the electric motor to life, needs to be found, as it is hidden on the gear selector lever behind the wide right-hand steering wheel spoke.

The EV5 does not want to be sporty at all, it is more of a spacious SUV for the family. Nevertheless, the two-tonner manages to get from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds. The intermediate sprints are also quick and swift, overtaking is child's play, especially as the body roll is extremely low. The top speed is limited to 165 km/h to protect the battery, which is more than enough for everyday situations on the road. The wind noise is kept within limits, the noise level on board is very low anyway and only the rolling of the tires increases in volume as the speed increases.

On our journeys, which we mainly completed in Eco mode of the four preset driving programs, the power consumption was even slightly lower than specified in the WLTP cycle. This states 16.8 kWh as the average value; we were only on the road with 16.5 kWh. This means that the specified range of just over 500 kilometers is definitely within sight. If you don't drive much on the highway and are often on country roads or in the city, you won't be a frequent guest at the fast charging station. The battery delivers 81.4 kWh and 150 kW of maximum direct current (DC) charging power takes it from 10 to 80 percent in just over 30 minutes. If you charge with alternating current (AC) and the standard 11 kW device, you will have to wait up to seven hours for a full charge. This time is reduced by the optional 22 kW charger, which Kia offers for 990 euros.

Driving the EV5 is very pleasant thanks to the harmonious power delivery and comfortable suspension. The energy recovery, which can be adjusted in several stages via steering wheel paddles, allows single-pedal operation, in which case the Kia decelerates to a stop without using the brakes. The lack of body visibility alone requires trust in the assistance systems and camera operation. Especially when parking, it provides welcome all-round images that can be used to find the correct steering angle. The blind spot cameras also provide a considerable increase in safety when they show the respective vehicle flank and the area behind it on the display when the blinker is activated. The so-called Drive-Wise package for 1890 euros also includes the cross-traffic warning, the exit monitor, the parking assistant as well as remote control of this function via cell phone and a premium sound system from Harman and Kardon. Finally, only the metallic paint finish remains as an extra, for which Kia charges 790 euros.

The EV5 therefore meets most of the requirements for a family-friendly electric car, only the price is likely to put off some potential buyers. However, Kia offers a plus in terms of equipment, for which you have to pay a lot more for similar models such as the VW ID 4. (aum)

Data Kia EV5 GT-Line

Length x width x height (m): 4.61 x 1.88 x 1.68
Wheelbase (m): 2.75
Drive: Electric motor, automatic, front-wheel drive
Power: 218 hp (160 kW)
Max. Torque: 295 Nm
Top speed: 165 km/h
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 8.4 sec.
Average consumption (WLTP): 16.8 kWh
Range: 505 km
Test consumption: 16.5 kWh
Battery capacity: 81.4 kWh
Unladen weight / payload: min. 2169 kg / max. 511 kg
Towing capacity: 1200 kg
Trunk capacity: 556-1650 liters (+ 44.4-liter trunk)
Price: 51,990 euros
Test car price: 54,670 euros