The all-new Kia EV5 has made a significant debut as the electric alternative to the popular Kia Sportage. Although both vehicles fall under the midsize SUV category, tailored for families, the differences between these two models might surprise you, especially when you consider their cost and practicality. Let’s break down the Kia EV5 vs Kia Sportage in a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is the best fit for your lifestyle.
Price Difference: EV5 vs Sportage
The Kia Sportage SX Hybrid, priced at approximately $61,500 (excluding on-road costs), represents a solid hybrid option in the midsize SUV category. In contrast, the entry-level Kia EV5 Air Long Range starts at around $61,500 as well, but this price doesn’t come with significant benefits when compared to the Sportage. With the EV5, you get a larger battery and an electric motor, but the features offered are rather minimal considering the price. The Sportage, on the other hand, provides more value for money.
Weight: EV5 vs Sportage
When it comes to weight, the Kia EV5 is a staggering 300 kg heavier than the Kia Sportage SX Hybrid. This additional weight has a few implications. It means the EV5 will experience more wear and tear on crucial components like brakes and tires, which can potentially lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run. Additionally, the extra weight can negatively impact the braking performance and longevity of various parts, ultimately making the EV5 a less practical option for those seeking lower running costs.
Efficiency and Range: A Major Difference
One of the most significant differences between the two models lies in their efficiency and range. The official range of the Kia EV5 is 555 km, powered by an 88.1 kWh battery. However, real-world usage shows that it may not consistently achieve this range, and charging the vehicle could become a hassle. On the other hand, the Kia Sportage Hybrid offers a range of 1,161 km on a full tank of gas. This is an incredible advantage for those who prioritize long-range travel and fuel efficiency.
Let’s break down the cost for recharging the EV5. Charging at a ChargeFox station costs about 65 cents per kWh, meaning a full charge from 0% to 100% will cost you approximately $57.25. For the Sportage Hybrid, a full tank of petrol costs roughly $89.40 for a 1,000 km range. While you might save on the cost of petrol in the EV5, the reality is that the range and charging requirements can quickly become frustrating, especially if you’re on a long road trip.
Charging vs Refueling: Convenience Matters
While electric vehicles like the Kia EV5 offer convenience in some areas, fueling up a gas-powered vehicle is still much quicker and easier. For instance, with the Sportage Hybrid, you can refuel in under 5 minutes, whereas charging the EV5 could take hours depending on the charging station and battery level. This discrepancy in convenience may deter some customers from choosing an electric vehicle like the Kia EV5, especially those with a busy, spontaneous lifestyle.
Interior Comfort: Similar Yet Different
When you step inside the Kia EV5, you’ll find a futuristic interior design. It features a dual-screen dashboard with impressive graphics and excellent menu flow. Unlike the Sportage, the EV5 comes with a flat floor due to its electric motor, offering extra comfort for middle passengers. The cabin feels spacious, with plenty of legroom and headspace in both the front and rear seats. However, the steering wheel design in the EV5 is somewhat bulky, and the center console doesn’t feel as ergonomic as the one in the Sportage.
Driving Experience: Which Is Better?
When it comes to driving experience, the Kia EV5 offers a solid, smooth ride as an electric vehicle, but it doesn’t match the Kia Sportage Hybrid in terms of performance. The Sportage Hybrid delivers a more responsive and traditional driving experience, which many drivers prefer over the futuristic but sometimes awkward feel of an electric SUV.
Practicality: Space and Features
The Kia EV5 offers more spacious cargo storage, including hidden compartments and power outlets, making it a suitable choice for those who need extra room. Additionally, you get a manual tailgate, which may seem outdated but still functions well for day-to-day use. The Sportage Hybrid, though slightly more compact, offers a well-designed cabin with ample storage space for family trips.
Moreover, the EV5 has a USBC port at the back, a useful feature for charging devices on the go. The Sportage Hybrid also has decent connectivity options but may lack the extensive tech suite of the EV5.
Verdict: Kia EV5 or Kia Sportage Hybrid?
So, should you choose the Kia EV5 or the Kia Sportage Hybrid?
The Kia Sportage Hybrid emerges as the better choice for most buyers due to its lower cost, better fuel efficiency, and longer range. It’s a practical family vehicle that offers both comfort and value for money. While the Kia EV5 is a stunning electric vehicle that looks modern and offers future-proofing advantages, it still lags in terms of range, charging convenience, and overall practicality.
If you’re considering a family-friendly midsize SUV that offers more convenience and less stress, the Kia Sportage Hybrid is likely the smarter choice. The Kia EV5 will become a more attractive option in the future as electric vehicle technology advances and battery costs come down, but for now, the Sportage is the one that offers better overall value.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
When comparing the Kia EV5 to the Kia Sportage Hybrid, it’s clear that both vehicles offer distinct advantages, but for now, the Sportage Hybrid comes out on top in terms of practicality, range, and cost-effectiveness. The Kia EV5 remains an intriguing choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts. Still, until the range improves and charging infrastructure becomes more widespread, it’s hard to justify the added expense over the highly capable Kia Sportage.
