Kia EV5 Spotted With Updated Design and Large Infotainment Screen

Kia’s electric SUV, the EV5, has been spotted in South Korea with a distinct new exterior style and a significantly overhauled interior, including a large widescreen infotainment display.

What Happened

The EV5, a sportage-sized electric SUV not currently sold in the US, was observed without camouflage in a South Korean parking garage by ShortsCar. While the hood and headlights remain largely similar to the current model, the updated version introduces a black accent light and a new bumper design that mirrors the rugged EV5 WKNDR Concept revealed last November. The most substantial changes are inside the cabin, where the display architecture has been reconfigured. Instead of the current screen spanning from the driver to the center, the new layout extends from the center to the passenger side, accompanied by a slim display positioned in front of the steering wheel. Additionally, the center console has replaced physical buttons with a cover for a cleaner aesthetic. Although the slim display suggests the adoption of the new Pleos infotainment system used by Hyundai, this remains unconfirmed speculation.

Why It Matters

A sticker on the rear of the spotted vehicle indicates that the updated EV5 is set to launch in the Philippines. This sighting aligns with the expected timeline for a facelift, as the EV5 originally launched in China in 2023 and is anticipated to be refreshed around 2027. The EV5 has already contributed significantly to Kia’s market recovery in China and is projected to become one of its best-selling electric vehicles. The design updates signal Kia’s ongoing commitment to refining its global EV lineup, though the vehicle remains unavailable in the US market.

The Bottom Line

Kia has not yet confirmed whether or when the updated EV5 will launch in other global markets, including Europe and South Korea. The refreshed model is expected to arrive after the China-made version, following the pattern of the current EV5 rollout.