Kia presented its latest EV masterpiece, the Kia EV5, today. And if it appears familiar, it's because the new EV5 borrows extensively from its bigger brother, the EV9. You wouldn't be wrong if you called the EV5 a mini-EV9 - though Kia's public relations staff would not be impressed.

According to the official press release, the EV5's design is inspired by both natural landscapes and modern architecture. The moniker 'Tiger Face' refers to Kia's creative design, which the EV5 exemplifies admirably. Add in the "Signature Star Map Lighting" and you're riding in a constellation - or so the theory goes. We can't help but notice the EV9 no matter which way we look - and that's not a bad thing.

Size matters in the SUV game, and the EV5 is on the smaller end of the spectrum. It is 135 mm shorter than the Tesla Model Y at 4,615 mm. With a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, it fits between the Model Y and the forthcoming Hyundai Kona Electric.

Kia appears to have gone all out when it comes to colour selections for the new EV5. From the gleaming 'Snow White Pearl,' 'Starry Night Black,' 'Ivory Silver,' to the daring 'Magma Red,' Kia doesn't hold back when it comes to names. But keep in mind that it's not about appearances. It's all about the... well, it's mostly about the looks. Perhaps quite a bit.
Have you ever considered your vehicle to be an extension of your living room? We didn't either, until recently. Kia is reinventing vehicle interiors, transforming the EV5's spaciousness into something like to your living room. Consider sitting in your car like it's your favourite armchair. This isn't an automobile; it's a mobile getaway.

This movable lounge includes mood lighting. Want to unwind after a long day? Adjust the brightness, choose a relaxing colour, and let the atmosphere wash away your concerns. Think disco lights, but more refined.

Because today's reveal is all about the design, we'll have to wait a little longer for the official powertrain specs. However, according to Chinese market certification procedures, we already know that the Kia EV5 will be driven by a single 160 kW (218 PS) electric motor, similar to the Kona. The electrons will be supplied by a BYD Blade battery pack. It remains to be seen whether the global specification will differ from the Chinese version.
Kia intends to officially launch the EV5 in October, on Kia EV Day, with China serving as its first market. The world is hungry for compact electric SUVs, and Kia's timing couldn't be better. Let's see whether they nail the pricing!