Kia has expanded its European electric SUV lineup with the debut of the Kia EV5 GT at the Brussels Motor Show. Positioned as the new range-topping variant, the EV5 GT introduces dual-motor all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and subtle design upgrades—focusing on premium capability rather than outright performance.
GT Badge: More Capability, Not a Track Toy
Unlike Kia’s extreme GT models, the EV5 GT is designed as a flagship specification rather than a hardcore performance EV. It joins the EV3 GT and EV4 GT as part of Kia’s broader strategy to offer more choice at the upper end of its electric range—prioritizing traction, comfort, and everyday usability.
Dual-Motor AWD Powertrain
The headline upgrade is the all-wheel-drive system, a first for the EV5 lineup.
Power & Performance (Estimated)
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Total output: ~225 kW
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Battery: 81.4 kWh
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0–100 km/h: ~6.2 seconds
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Estimated range: ~480 km (WLTP, approx.)
This places the EV5 GT squarely against competitors such as:
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Volkswagen ID.4 GTX
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Skoda Enyaq vRS
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Peugeot E-3008 Dual Motor
However, it sits below higher-performance rivals like the Tesla Model Y Performance and Volvo EX40 Twin Motor in outright acceleration.
Virtual Gear Shift and Adaptive Suspension
One of the most interesting additions is Kia’s Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system. This feature simulates stepped gear changes with synchronized throttle response and synthetic sound, aiming to give drivers a more engaging and familiar driving experience.
Other GT-specific upgrades include:
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Dedicated GT drive mode
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Adaptive suspension
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20-inch alloy wheels
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Performance-oriented tires
Together, these changes enhance stability, ride control, and driver involvement—especially on European roads.
Subtle Styling Changes
Visually, Kia has kept the EV5 GT restrained. Rather than aggressive bodywork, the updates are intentionally subtle:
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Discreet GT badging
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Revised wheel designs
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Minor trim details
The overall look remains clean and understated, aligning with the EV5’s modern SUV design rather than shouting about performance.
Pricing and Market Outlook
Kia has not yet confirmed official pricing. However, early indications suggest the EV5 GT will be priced slightly above the current GT-Line S trim.
Expected Positioning
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Europe: Above GT-Line S
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Australia (if offered): Low-to-mid $80,000 AUD range (before on-road costs, estimate)
Australian availability has not been confirmed, but the EV5 GT signals Kia’s intent to broaden its electric SUV portfolio with more premium, AWD-equipped options.
What the EV5 GT Represents
Rather than chasing headline acceleration numbers, the Kia EV5 GT focuses on:
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Added traction
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Higher-end equipment
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Enhanced ride and handling
It reflects Kia’s growing maturity in the EV space—offering depth and variety instead of a one-size-fits-all electric SUV.
Kia has revealed the EV5 GT at the Brussels Motor Show, introducing all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and Virtual Gear Shift technology. Positioned as a premium flagship rather than a hardcore performance model, the EV5 GT expands Kia’s electric SUV range with more traction, comfort, and high-end features for European buyers.
