Offered in up to 16 variants globally, the Kia PV5 is the brand’s first dedicated Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV). The new EV sits on the Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S), one of Kia’s most flexible dedicated EV architectures, making it a compelling alternative to even SUVs in several use cases.
Recently, we had the chance to experience the comfort and features of the Kia PV5 in a global specification. Here are some interesting observations we made about the design, interior, and features.
Design
The Kia PV5 embodies the brand’s Opposites United design language, combining a conventional MPV shape with technical-looking elements.
At the front, it has a smooth, largely covered body that aids aerodynamics, minimising energy consumption. The charging port is integrated into the centre of the front fascia to make head-in parking at charging stations easier.
The vertical DRLs lend the vehicle a futuristic appearance, while the headlights are horizontal and have been positioned separately, low down, flanking the charging port.
On the sides, the PV5 flaunts SUV-inspired prominent black cladding on the lower body and 16-inch alloy wheels. Large windows and mirrors, a low and straight beltline, a flat roof, and an overall boxy, space-focused shape make it immediately recognisable as an MPV.
At the rear, while the passenger variant seen here features a lifting tailgate, the cargo variant has 180-degree opening split barn doors. The number plate area also varies according to the variant, while the tail lamps carry a C-shaped signature.
Interior
The dashboard has a clean layout, with most key controls placed within easy reach. A 7-inch instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch central touchscreen give the cabin a more car-like interface than many vans and MPVs. The infotainment system runs Android Automotive OS, marking a first for Kia.
Storage is a clear priority in the PV5. The EV gets multiple open trays, a glovebox, a floor console, cupholders, USB ports, and modular AddGear mounting points for accessories.
The flat floor improves movement inside the cabin, while large windows, big mirrors, and a low beltline help visibility. Kia uses hard-wearing materials, including TPO flooring, recycled PET, and bio-based PU, with dark blue upholstery and a fabric headliner.
Experience in the PV5
As a six-footer, getting into the front is even easier with the A-pillar grab handle and the carved-out foot placement area, but the driver’s seat is positioned higher than the rear bench, so the front and rear entry experience is not the same.
Once in the driver’s seat, the PV5 feels airy and practical. The front quarter glass, large windows and big mirrors give it excellent outward visibility. I liked the fact that it gets USB ports, fast charger, wireless charger and the large amount of storage between the seats. The drive selector on the stalk also frees up useful space in the centre console.
That said, I expected the front seats to offer better shoulder support, especially for a vehicle that could be used for longer journeys. The steering wheel could also have been thicker, and the piano black finish on the steering spokes will attract fingerprints.
In the rear, the PV5 is very spacious. With the front seat set to my driving position, I had generous knee room and leg room, a flat floor and an elevated footrest area. Three passengers should fit comfortably across the bench, with the adjustable recline improving comfort.
I would have preferred roof-mounted rear vents, more under-thigh support, a centre armrest, and a fold-out armrest on the right. The sliding windows only open partly, too. Overall, it feels ideal for short to medium-distance use.
Specifications
In the UK, Kia offers the PV5 in Cargo and Passenger variants and plans to launch Crew and Chassis Cab variants later. The Passenger variant seen here measures 4,695 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,923 mm in height and has a 2,995 mm wheelbase. It has five seats and offers 1,339 litres of luggage space, expandable to 2,300 litres by folding the rear seats.
Powering the Kia PV5 is a front-mounted motor that produces 120 hp or 160 hp and 250 Nm of torque, depending on the configuration selected.
The low-output version comes with a 51.5 kWh NCM battery pack that delivers a WLTP range of 183 miles in the Passenger variant. The high-output version uses a 71.2 kWh NCM battery pack that allows travel of up to 256 miles on a single charge in the same variant, also as per WLTP.
7-seat variant
Kia recently announced that the PV5’s Passenger variant will gain a seven-seat option with the MY2027 update in the UK this October.
The three-row configuration will feature a 2+2+3 seating layout and offer 318 litres of luggage space behind the seats, expandable to 785 litres by folding the third row. It will only be available in the Long Range setup, with a WLTP range of over 242 miles.
Price
Prices for the Kia PV5 in the UK start at GBP 32,995 for the Passenger variant and GBP 27,645 (excl. VAT) for the Cargo variant.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
