It’s not often us Canadian get a vehicle that Americans do not, yet it is happening with a new Kia electric vehicle.

Kia Canada announced the EV5 will be exclusive to the Canadian market in North America and our neighbours to the south will not get it. The Kia EV5 is expected to be available at Canadian dealerships in 2026.

If you’re wondering why the United States is not getting the all-electric SUV, U.S. automotive publication Car and Driver has an explanation on its website.

“In line with Kia’s commitment to being a mobility solutions provider, the company aims to continue to break down barriers to entry as the industry transitions to more electric vehicle ownership,” said David Sherrard, director of strategic planning at Kia Canada, in a news release. “Upon launch, EV5 will mark an important milestone as we introduce this vehicle as an affordable option, that will meet the needs of today’s modern consumer, in what is Canada’s most significant segment.”

What is the Kia EV5?

The EV5 is intended to break the affordability barrier for EVs.

Despite its humble intentions and compact size, the vehicle benefits from the technologies used in Kia’s larger and more expensive electric offerings.

Customers will be able to choose between two battery size options, with the standard range models getting their juice from a 60.3-kWh battery and the long range models being powered by an 81.4-kWh battery. The vehicle is equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, so drivers will be able to plug in at Tesla Superchargers for DC fast charging.

The EV5 comes in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.

The automaker didn’t provide power output or range information.

The design follows the family resemblance – think EV9 but smaller. Wheel sizes range from 18 to 20 inches and the SUV will be available in eight colours, include a pair of new-to-Kia colours, Magma Red and Frost Blue.

Kia said the interior features luxury appointments, soft-touch surfaces and a minimalist aesthetic. It also contains what Kia calls 10 environmentally mindful materials.

There is also a panoramic screen measuring almost 30 inches.

Kia said the five-seater has generous space inside and the rear seats fold completely flat for ample cargo space, plus there’s more storage space in the frunk.

Canadians will be able to get their first glimpse at the Kia EV5 at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto from Feb. 14 to 23.

For updates, go to kia.ca/EV5.

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