Kia EV5 Gets Early Facelift Amidst Competitive EV Market

Daily Car

·

31/12/2025

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Despite its recent market debut in late 2023 and subsequent global rollouts, the Kia EV5 is already slated for a mid-cycle refresh. Kia has confirmed that updates focusing on technology and design tweaks are expected before the end of 2026, with a market launch likely in 2027 for most regions outside China.

Key Takeaways

Kia EV5 refresh planned by late 2026 with tech and design enhancements.
Current model faces competition from rivals with faster charging and better efficiency.
The EV5 Weekender concept offers clues to potential interior and tech upgrades.

Charging and Efficiency Concerns

The current Kia EV5 utilizes a 400-volt N3 eK system, which limits its DC fast charging capability to a maximum of 140 kW. This results in a 10 to 80 percent charge time of 38 minutes, falling behind key competitors like the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7, as well as other Hyundai and Kia electric models. While a shift to an 800-volt architecture is not anticipated with this refresh, Kia may implement improvements to reduce charging times. Additionally, the EV5's efficiency could be enhanced to offer a more competitive range.

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Interior and Tech Upgrades

While specific details about the refresh remain scarce, insights can be drawn from the recent EV5 Weekender concept. This concept showcased a departure from the production model's dual-display setup, featuring a single panel integrating the infotainment screen and a passenger display, with a slim cluster positioned in front of the driver. The concept also introduced a distinctive new steering wheel and a revised center console, hinting at potential cabin modernization. The Weekender concept might also suggest the introduction of a more rugged variant to the EV5 lineup.

Competitive Landscape

The early refresh signals Kia's intent to keep the EV5 competitive in a rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. As rivals continue to introduce vehicles with superior charging speeds, enhanced efficiency, and more advanced cabin technologies, Kia aims to address the EV5's current shortcomings and appeal to a broader audience.

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