The Kia EV5 has achieved the highest safety rating following extensive testing by Euro NCAP, the leading independent safety testing organisation in Europe. The fully electric SUV achieved the maximum five-star rating, further underlining the model’s impressive safety credentials for European customers.
The EV5 was assessed in four categories and performed to a high standard throughout the process. It achieved 83% for adult occupant protection, 85% for child occupant protection, 74% for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and 80% in the ‘Safety Assist’ category, which evaluates the availability and performance of advanced collision-avoidance technologies.
In adult occupant tests, the passenger compartment of the EV5 remained stable after a frontal impact, with dummy readings indicating good knee and femur protection for both the driver and front passenger. The model provided strong protection in side barrier impacts, scoring maximum points, while front- and rear-seat tests demonstrated good protection against whiplash-related injuries in a rear-end collision. The SUV is also equipped with an advanced eCall system, alerting emergency services in the event of an accident and a system to help prevent secondary impacts after an initial collision.
The EV5 scored two percentage points higher in the child occupant tests, with the vehicle protecting all critical body areas of dummies in both frontal and side impacts. The front passenger airbag can be deactivated to allow a rear-facing child restraint to be used. All child restraint types designed for the EV5 could be properly installed and accommodated.
When testing the EV5’s protection of vulnerable road users, Euro NCAP found good or adequate head and leg protection across the front of the vehicle. The autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system responds to other vehicles, as well as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, performing particularly well in cyclist scenarios.
In the ‘Safety Assist’ category, Euro NCAP highlighted the performance of the EV5’s AEB system in avoiding or mitigating collisions with other vehicles. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) corrects the vehicle’s path if it drifts out of its lane and can even intervene when necessary. The EV5 also features an Intelligent Speed Limit Assist system (ISLA) that identifies the current speed limit, as well as a direct driver status monitoring system and standard seatbelt reminders for front and rear occupants.
The EV5’s safety rating is reinforced by its high-strength Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and rigid body structure. Combined with a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), this confirms the EV5’s convenience and safety on the road. Built on Kia’s dedicated E-GMP EV platform, the EV5 is designed to meet the exacting requirements of today’s EV drivers.
As an important addition to Kia’s electrification strategy, the EV5 is designed to accelerate the global transition to zero-emission mobility. Its launch marks a key milestone in expanding access to dedicated EVs, while strengthening Kia’s presence in core international markets.
Equipped with an 81.4 kWh battery and 160 kW motor, it delivers a maximum WLTP range of up to 530 km (329 miles), providing the confidence and convenience required for both daily use and long-distance journeys.
Key technologies such as regenerative braking, Kia’s advanced heat pump system, and fast-charging capability (10–80% in just 30 minutes) further enhance efficiency and usability in real-world conditions. The European rollout of the Kia EV5 begun during the fourth quarter of this year.
