Kia reveals three new models at EV Day

Kia detailed three new EV models on its recent global EV day in Spain.

The trio consists of the EV2, a small SUV concept, a production-ready EV4 in sedan and hatchback form, and the PV5, a multi-purpose vehicle already teased.

With EV3 headed to the market and the EV5, EV6 and EV9 already in the market, Kia is quickly building the broadest range of EV models available.

Concept EV2

The Concept EV2 is a B-segment SUV designed for urban environments. Its upright proportions and Kia’s ‘Star Map lighting’ elements give the front end a distinctive appearance. Although the vehicle’s footprint is relatively small, the interior uses a fold-up second row and rear-hinged back doors to facilitate loading and entry.

In New Zealand, it could go head-to-head with the Jeep Avenger and the slightly larger Opel Mokka on sale. That said, it is not yet a definite starter here.

According to Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song, the Concept EV2 is intended to “offer innovative technology and practicality beyond its size” and preview a future production model. Kia has indicated the EV2 or something similar could launch in some regions, including Europe, in 2026.

Concept EV4

Kia also showed the production of the EV4, which moves away from the SUV format often seen in current electric lineups. It will be available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback. Both share a 400V architecture—as opposed to the 800-volt architecture of the EV6 and EV9—and offer 58.3kWh or 81.4kWh battery packs.

Long-range sedan variants have a stated maximum driving distance of up to 630km (WLTP), while equivalent hatchbacks are estimated at 590km. Kia’s figures suggest a 10–80% fast-charge time of roughly half an hour.

The cabin features a wide, 30-inch combined display, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a smartphone-based key system. Production of the sedan is expected to begin in Korea around March 2025, and the hatch will follow in Slovakia later that year.

Ho Sung Song noted Kia’s commitment to making electrification accessible. “With models like the Kia EV4 and the vision shown in the Kia Concept EV2, we strive to democratise EV ownership, making the benefits of sustainable mobility solutions open to everyone.”

The sedan is expected to be built in Korea, while the hatch will be made at Kia’s plant in Slovakia.

Expect to see the EV4 in New Zealand sooner rather than later. An example will appear at the local Kia EV day in late March.

The EV4 in hatchback form will go up against the MG4, while the sedan will likely have the segment to itself, offering a smaller option to those looking at the Tesla Model 3.

The hidden stuff

Kia’s new PV5 departs from the traditional van or MPV designs. It uses a modular ‘skateboard’ chassis that supports multiple body styles. The company refers to this approach as ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’ (PBV).

Current variants of the PV5 include Passenger, Cargo, Chassis Cab, Crew, and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) configurations.

All share a front-mounted 120kW motor paired with one of three battery sizes, ranging from 43.3kWh to 71.2kWh. Kia estimates that specific passenger models have a driving range of up to 400km. The PV5 is designed for different commercial or private uses, with reconfigurable seating, a low cargo floor in Cargo versions, and a 30-minute DC fast-charge capability.

Sung Song underlined the broader strategy: “In an ever-greater demand for customised products and experiences, buyers still expect manufacturers to meet their needs. As a first mover in the PBV sector, Kia, through the PV5, combines a customer-first approach with advanced EV technology to transform personal mobility.”