The Kia EV5 GT has made its debut in Europe as one of three new GT-badged electric models, bringing dual-motor all-wheel drive, 302 horsepower and a 295-mile WLTP-rated range. Despite its size and performance making it a strong fit for the U.S. market, there are no known plans to introduce the EV5 GT in America.
Kia EV5 GT Performance and Specs
Kia introduced the EV5 GT alongside the EV3 GT and EV4 GT as the top-performance variants of the three electric vehicles, which were previewed earlier in 2026.
The EV5 GT is roughly the size of the Sportage and features a design that closely resembles a downsized EV9. Its elaborate lighting and boxy exterior lines give it a distinctly different appearance from the Tesla Model Y, while its profile is more reminiscent of the Rivian R2.
Power comes from dual motors driving all four wheels. The setup produces 302 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
Kia claims the EV5 GT can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.2 seconds. That suggests a slightly quicker 0-60 mph time of about six seconds, making it faster than the base Tesla Model Y Standard, which takes 6.8 seconds to reach 60 mph.
While the performance is quick, it does not approach the sort of straight-line speed associated with Hyundai’s N models.
Range and Chassis Upgrades
The EV5 GT uses an 81.4-kWh battery with a WLTP-rated range of 295 miles. By more conservative EPA standards, it will probably cover around 250 to 260 miles on a full charge.
That estimated range is shorter than that of any Model Y, but it should be just about enough for customers who can rely on home charging.
Kia says the EV5 GT, along with the smaller GT models, features increased spring rates, a firmer ride and specially tuned anti-roll bars. The changes are intended to deliver sportier and more controlled responses.
The most dynamic setting is GT Mode, which prioritizes cornering over comfort.
“The GT models make electric driving feel more responsive, more connected and more emotionally engaging, while retaining the everyday usability our customers expect,” said Pablo Martinez Masip, Vice President Product, Marketing & Customer Experience at Kia Europe.
Kia EV5 GT Has No Known U.S. Launch Plans
The EV5 GT’s combination of size, modern styling and performance would appear to make it a strong fit for the U.S. market. However, there are no known plans to introduce the model in America.
The standard EV5 is not currently on sale in the U.S., making a U.S. launch of only the performance-focused GT version a long shot. Almost a year ago, Kia confirmed the disappointing news, even though the EV5 is making it to Canada.
A clear reason for excluding the U.S. was not given. The decision could be related to expected profit margins, consumer preferences and import tariffs.
Sales of the similarly sized EV6 have been poor in 2026, which could mean Kia does not view the segment as competitive enough for the EV5 in the U.S.
EV3 GT Offers a Faster Alternative
Whatever the reason for the EV5 GT’s exclusion from the U.S., American buyers will not have access to one of Kia’s newest performance-oriented electric SUVs.
For buyers seeking a quick electric SUV, Kia’s new EV3 GT is another option. It is not as spacious as the EV5, but it is even quicker because there is less weight to move around.
