The Korean automaker’s entry-level EV crossover will come in FWD or AWD, and land on our shores early 2026
“Only in Canada, eh?” The most famous tea tagline ever.
It may be a small victory, but it is a victory nonetheless: Kia Canada will import the Korean company’s cute-as-a-bug battery-powered compact crossover, the EV5, and America won’t. Now, you might think this is some tariff-related obstruction or even the result of American antipathy to electric vehicles these days.
But, in fact, according to Car & Driver, the real problem is the infamous Inflation Reduction Act and its USD$7,500 incentives that depend on U.S. content. Without that generous tax credit, Kia’s littlest EV might be a tough sell in the U.S. of A. In other words, only in Canada, eh?
So, exactly what are we privileged to drive that those nasty tariff-bearing Yanks are not?
The good news is that, despite its entry-level compact status, the EV5 shares most of the technology that makes Kia’s larger battery-electrics so popular. It will, for instance, use Kia’s 800-volt architecture that promotes faster charging. It will also be available in both single- and dual-motor versions, which means both front- and all-wheel-drive versions will be offered.
Entry-level EV5s will energized by a 60.3-kilowatt-hour battery; while the top-of-the-line extended-range version will benefit from 81.4 kWh. Perhaps most importantly, the EV5 will be equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, which Kia says will offer EV5 owners access to 61% more DC fast-charging outlets across the country.
Besides some slightly over-the-top references to its “Opposites United” design philosophy — the EV5, says Kia, is highlighted by its “Bold for Nature” pillar and “Tiger Face” grille — the new compact crossover follows the same boxy-but-beautiful motif of its siblings. So, marketing bumpf aside, all of Kia’s EVs have been handsome devils, and the “5” would seem no exception.
Probably more important is that, as per Kia Canada, it will offer a 30-inch panoramic infotainment and gauge-set screen; will be built of environmentally-mindful materials; and the interior will also include some (now essential) mood lighting. The second row of seats folds flat and can be used, says C&D, as a small bed for camping. The magazine also says massaging seats will be available as an option. EV5s will roll on a choice of 18-, 19-, or 20-inch wheels, creating what the company calls a “dignified and voluminous stance.”
The 2026 EV5 will make its official Canadian debut at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, running from February 14 to 23, and will be available in Canada in early 2026.
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