Kia EV5 just launched in some markets and is already preparing for a facelift
Kia has confirmed that the electric crossover EV5 will receive a planned mid-life cycle update, even though the model has just begun to enter most global markets. The facelift is expected by the end of 2026, and sales of the updated version outside of China may start in 2027.
What is known
Kia EV5 debuted in China at the end of 2023. During 2024, the model entered the markets of Australia, Brazil, and several other countries, while sales in Europe started only this fall. Nevertheless, the company has already confirmed preparations for an update.
The plans for the facelift were reported by Kia Australia's product planning general manager Roland Rivero. In a comment to Drive, he noted that the EV5 will receive a standard mid-life cycle set of changes, including design and technology updates. Specific details are not yet disclosed by the company.
One possible area of improvement could be charging. The EV5 is built on the 400-volt N3 eK platform, not the 800-volt E-GMP architecture used by more expensive Hyundai and Kia electric vehicles. The maximum power of the fast DC charging is 140 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10 to 80% in about 38 minutes. In this regard, the EV5 lags behind competitors such as the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7, as well as Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 models. A transition to the 800-volt system is not expected during the facelift, but the company may try to reduce charging time and increase efficiency, which could extend the range.
It is unclear whether the update will affect the interior of the production version. Last month, Kia introduced the EV5 Weekender concept, focused on an off-road theme. It uses a different interior layout: instead of two separate screens, there is a single panel with displays for the multimedia system and the passenger, while a compact digital instrument panel is placed in front of the driver. The concept also received a new steering wheel and a redesigned center console.
Source: Drive
