Kia is shaking up the compact electric SUV game again, and this time it’s with a stylish upgrade to their already impressive EV5 lineup.
At the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, the company unveiled the 2025 Kia EV5 GT Line, a sporty, high-tech variant that promises to make waves in the electric vehicle market—starting at under $30,000.
Big Ambitions, Compact Package
With dimensions that nearly mirror its rival, the Tesla Model Y, the EV5 GT Line brings sporty flair and advanced tech to the compact SUV segment. Its blacked-out exterior design and 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels lend it a sleek, aggressive stance that exudes sophistication without the sticker shock.
And this isn’t just a visual upgrade. At its core, the GT Line boasts an all-wheel-drive powertrain capable of 316 horsepower, catapulting it from 0 to 62 mph in just six seconds. That’s enough pep to give even seasoned EV skeptics a reason to pause.
Range and Charging: Designed for Modern Drivers
Kia’s partnership with BYD to incorporate Blade battery technology means the EV5 isn’t just about aesthetics or performance—it delivers where it counts for EV buyers: range and charging. The base model offers up to 329 miles (530 km) CLTC range, while the long-range version provides a remarkable 447 miles (720 km) CLTC range.
The GT Line delivers 360 miles (580 km) CLTC range, with fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 27 minutes. While the CLTC figures may lean on the optimistic side, even a modest adjustment for real-world conditions keeps the EV5 competitive with industry heavyweights.
Interior: High-Tech Comfort Meets Sporty Flair
Kia didn’t stop at exterior updates. Step inside the GT Line, and you’re greeted by a driver-centric cabin packed with features to elevate every ride.
A leather-wrapped, two-tone steering wheel adds a touch of luxury to the sporty three-spoke design. Dual 12.3-inch digital displays provide seamless access to the next-gen ccNC infotainment system, and an optional Harman Kardon audio system ensures that road trips sound as good as they feel.
For those prioritizing sustainability, Kia’s eco-friendly design choices—like plant-based leather for seats and door panels in the base model—are a welcome addition. Convenience features like electric folding exterior rearview mirrors add practicality to the stylish design.
Should the EV5 GT Line Come to the U.S.?
Here’s the million-dollar question—or perhaps the $30,000 one. The EV5 launched in China last year, starting at just $21,000, a move aimed squarely at top-selling competitors like the Tesla Model Y. Now, with the GT Line’s added performance and refinement, Kia has positioned this model as a global contender.
While no official word has come from Kia regarding a U.S. release, the EV5 GT Line could fill a crucial gap in the American market for affordable, sporty EVs. It’s a bold move that could entice buyers looking for a sleek, high-performance compact SUV without Tesla’s premium price tag.
Charge Complete
The 2025 Kia EV5 GT Line blends sporty aesthetics, cutting-edge tech, and affordability in a way few competitors can match. With a starting price that undercuts much of the competition and features that rival premium EVs, Kia might just have a breakout star on its hands. If they bring it to the U.S., it could be a game-changer for budget-conscious buyers eager to join the electric revolution.
Now, Kia—what’s the holdup? Let’s see this sporty stunner on American roads.
