All Kia EV5s should look this good! EV5 WKNDR recasts mid-size all-electric SUV as an off-roader
The 2026 Kia EV5 WKNDR has been unwrapped at the Guangzhou motor show, paving the way for a tougher, more rugged version of the popular electric mid-size SUV that can venture off-road.
The EV5 WKNDR follows on from similar versions of the Tasman ute, EV9 large SUV and PV5 delivery van.
The latest member of Kia’s adventurous off-road sub-brand lands with a pair of more impact-resistant front and rear bumpers, a proper roof rack and broader arches to accommodate a set of larger 20-inch alloy wheels.
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Those bigger wheel come shod with wider all-terrain tyres that combine with a ground clearance-boosting high-lift suspension kit.
Finally, if you exceed its capabilities in the dirt there’s a set of prominent yellow front and rear tow hooks.
Inside, the lime yellow hue is repeated on the new octagonal steering wheel, door cards and centre armrest.
The show car also bags Kia’s most sustainable plastics that are made from plant oils and biomass rather than petroleum.
Look closer and you’ll notice the special EV5 features a different cabin to the current mid-size SUV.
Instead, the Tesla Model Y rival adopts a slim digital instrument cluster and a widescreen infotainment system that stretches from the centre console almost to the passenger door.
The concept also sports a set of rear seats that can fold flat or be removed completely to provide more space for camping equipment, with handy yellow straps to secure loads.
Reflecting the needs of its outdoor-loving customers, there’s also a tailgate that folds out to a table.
Lighting, a built-in radio and a pair of binoculars are all handily included for those who want to go far off the beaten track.
Other than its towering ride height, there’s no word on any hardware changes, nor how big the onboard battery is.
But it’s thought that the EV5 WKNDR will come with dual electric motors that will produce 230kW and 480Nm of torque combined with an 88kWh battery for a WLTP range of up to 555km.
Catering to off-road newbies, the infotainment is said to offer a one-touch mode that automatically plots routes and then directs you to suitable charging points while identifying points of interests for nature lovers along the way.
According to analysts more rugged battery-powered off-roaders are already popular among Chinese buyers.
Therefore the new Kia EV5 WKNDR is hotly tipped to enter production next year as the Korean brand wants to capitalise on demand.
There’s no word yet if Kia will export the EV5 WKNDR to other markets, like Australia.
Currently, the Kia EV5 is available in four variants Down Under with the most affordable Kia EV5 Standard range that gets a 64kWh battery and single 160kW/310Nm priced from $56,770 plus on-road costs.
The Kia EV5 sold in Australia is imported from China.
