When Kia announced the EV5 back in July, it was introduced as a global model slated for rollout in China, Korea, Europe, and North America. That naturally implied a US launch, as “North America” typically includes the United States.
However, Kia’s latest press release makes a subtle but significant clarification: the EV5 will only be sold in Canada, not the US.
The updated statement arrives a few months after the EV5’s initial reveal and offers a more technical look at the brand’s family-oriented electric SUV. Its focus shifts away from design storytelling toward practical details and digital enhancements, with rollouts ready as early as later this year – just not for American buyers.
The decision quietly narrows Kia’s EV rollout plans in the region. Whether due to production, pricing, or regulatory considerations, the absence of the US from the EV5’s global plan means the automaker is adjusting its regional priorities, likely because of changing market conditions, as the EV5 will be primarily built in Korea for North America.
What the EV5 Brings to the Table
The EV5 rides on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, the same foundation used by the EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The model measures about 181.5 inches long, 73.8 inches wide, and 66 inches tall, making it close in size to a Sportage. Power comes from an 81.4-kWh battery paired with a 160-kW motor, producing brisk acceleration and an estimated range of around 329 miles under the WLTP cycle.
Charging from 10 to 80 percent takes about 30 minutes with DC fast charging, while Kia plans to introduce Standard and Long Range AWD variants later on. Inside, a dual 12.3-inch display setup anchors a minimalist cabin complemented by flexible rear seats that fold flat to expand cargo space. A three-zone climate system, advanced driver aids, and over-the-air software updates complete the tech-forward interior.
For families, Kia adds new conveniences, such as Pet Mode to maintain cabin comfort, and even optional Disney-themed digital displays.
Reading Between the Lines
By skipping the US, the EV5 won’t join Kia’s electric lineup alongside the EV6 and EV9. It also suggests that plans for local EV5 production – previously rumored to take place at the same Georgia facility as the EV6 – have been shelved. For now, the focus shifts to Canada and other regions where the EV5’s size and pricing may fit more comfortably within regulatory and incentive frameworks. Not really good news, considering that Kia is already developing a hotter GT variant.
Never say never, though. For now, the US may be out of the picture, but automakers are historically fickle about these things. Who knows — maybe, with the EV5’s facelift, which will happen in a few years, Kia will finally bring the model to American buyers.
