Kia Philippines, a subsidiary of ACMobility, is aiming to make a bigger mark on the EV scene with the launch of the Kia EV5 compact SUV at the 2026 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).
Following the tire tracks of its larger and more expensive siblings—the EV6 and the recently launched EV9—the EV5 brings a fresh, versatile look to the pure-electric compact SUV segment. Its innovative, spacious, and premium interior and impressive range is ideal for those ready to transition to an electrified lifestyle without compromising on utility and style.
“At ACMobility, our mission is to build the ecosystem that makes electric vehicle ownership the preferred choice for Filipinos. The introduction of the Kia EV5 underscores our commitment to bridging global innovation with local needs, fully supported by the Philippine EV Spine, our nationwide charging backbone. Together, we are offering transformative value and a cleaner, more reliable way to move forward,” said Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility.
The Kia EV5 GL starts at Php 2,298,000, while the top-of-the-line Kia EV5 GLS is priced at Php 2,698,000.
The EV5 is classified as a compact SUV, but it looks and feels like a midsized one when you stand beside it, and especially when you enter the spacious cabin. It sports a sophisticated styling that stands out on the road. The front displays the brand’s signature Digital Tiger Nose grille and Star Map LED lighting, creating a futuristic light signature. A sleek, aerodynamic silhouette complements the stylish 18-inch alloy wheels, while the top-spec variant adds a panoramic sunroof for better natural lighting and an enhanced open-air driving experience.
Inside, the EV5 offers space and connectivity with a premium cabin design anchored by dual screens consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The vehicle features automatic temperature controls, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and upholstery options in either premium cloth (GL) or a sophisticated cloth and leather combination (GLS). The EV5 also offers high-utility features like a 250V outlet as part of its internal and external Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities.
The EV5 boasts a 5-star safety rating from the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) when it went on sale in the region. This top-tier rating was achieved across all variants, ensuring that every car owner benefits from the highest level of crash protection and safety technology, regardless of the trim they choose. Driving confidence is further enhanced by Kia Drive Wise, the brand’s comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA), Surround View Monitor (SVM), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), and Lane Follow Assist (LFA). Furthermore, the EV5 comes equipped with a robust suite of standard features, including Multi-Collision Brake (MCB), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), and Hill Ascent Control (HAC).
I got to briefly test the EV5 a day before the show and found that it delivers a spirited, luxury car-like driving experience with its strong 217ps and 310Nm of torque and plush ride. The GLS features a high-capacity 88.1kWh battery pack with a range of 550 kilometers, while the GL variant provides a practical 400 kilometers of range with the same power output and a 64.2 kWh battery.
The EV5 comes in Frost Blue, Snow White Pearl, Starry Night Black, Shale Grey, and Ivory Silver. ACMobility offers a Home Charging Package for customers, which includes a free home charger with a one-year warranty. This package provides a Php 25,000 subsidy for standard home installation, which is backed by a two-year warranty for workmanship and materials. To keep things flexible, the package also includes Php 2,000 in free charging credits valid for one year at any ACMobility EC Charging Station.
“The Kia EV5 marks an essential new chapter in our electrification journey, perfectly slotting into our diverse lineup to bridge the gap between innovation and everyday utility. It serves as a purposeful companion that brings electrified mobility closer to more Filipinos, making the transition to a sustainable future more rewarding than ever,” said Jay Lopez, Managing Director of Kia Philippines.
Each variant is backed by Kia’s comprehensive warranty: 8 years or 160,000 kilometers for the battery and 5 years or 160,000 kilometers for the vehicle.
The EV5 will be available at Kia’s authorized EV dealerships—Metro Manila: Kia Acropolis, Kia Alabang, Kia Aseana, Kia BGC, Kia Fairview, Kia Makati, Kia Marikina, Kia New Manila, Kia Ortigas, Kia Pasig. Luzon: Kia Bacoor, Kia Clark, Kia Lipa, Kia Pampanga, Kia Sta. Rosa.
