Kia is throwing down the gauntlet in Australia’s electric vehicle market with its new EV5, a sharp competitor to Tesla’s popular Model Y. First making waves at the Chengdu Motor Show last August, the EV5 promises to offer a “family-friendly” mid-size electric SUV experience, but what’s grabbing the most attention is its pricing. The EV5’s price tag in China significantly undercut Tesla’s Model Y, and now, it’s looking to do the same Down Under.
With its arrival at Australian dealerships this month, Kia is bringing the EV5 in at a starting price of AUD $56,770, just undercutting Tesla’s Model Y by a slim margin. For those counting dollars, that’s a little more than a price jab—it’s a full-on swipe at one of the biggest names in EVs. And the EV5 isn’t just a budget-friendly option; it comes loaded with impressive specs, including three trims (Air, Earth, and GT-Line) and two battery options. Buyers can choose between a smaller 64.2 kWh battery with 400 km of range or a beefier 88.1 kWh option offering up to 555 km—plenty of juice to tackle those long Aussie road trips.
What makes the EV5 stand out further is its attention to local detail. Kia has tailored the EV5’s handling specifically for Australia’s unique road conditions, something the company emphasized during its launch. Plus, with Kia’s latest ccNC infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch driver display and navigation screens, the EV5 doesn’t just want to compete on price—it’s aiming to create a premium, tech-forward experience. Dimension-wise, it’s going head-to-head with the Model Y, signaling a clear intent to win over Tesla’s audience.
But the big question is, can the EV5’s blend of affordability, range, and features stack up against Tesla’s established dominance? Tesla has built a devoted following, but Kia’s strategy of undercutting on price while delivering a strong suite of features is bold. The Australian market will soon decide if the EV5 can carve out its space or if it will just be another contender in Tesla’s rearview mirror.
(Source: Auto Evolution | Drive | CarExpert)
