The Kia EV5 Air is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about electric SUVs expected to arrive in the UK — and in a recent video review, Driver Matty takes a closer look at whether it genuinely makes sense for everyday drivers, families, and the taxi or airport transfer trade.
In the video, the focus is on real-world practicality rather than hype, covering the EV5 Air’s exterior design, interior quality, usable space, tech features, and how it could fit into working life for high-mileage drivers.
Design and Interior Practicality
The EV5 Air follows Kia’s bold new electric design language, sitting somewhere between the EV3 and EV9 in size. It offers a boxy SUV profile, which translates into strong headroom, a flat floor, and a cabin that feels well-suited to family use or professional driving.
Inside, Kia leans heavily into a clean, modern layout. The EV5 Air features a wide digital display setup combining the driver’s screen and infotainment, along with physical controls retained for key functions — something many drivers still prefer over touch-only systems.
Rear passenger space appears generous for an SUV of this size, making it a realistic option for private hire work where comfort matters, especially on airport runs or longer journeys.
Battery, Range and Charging Expectations
While final UK specifications are still to be fully confirmed, the EV5 Air is expected to launch with a battery size of around 64kWh, paired with a single-motor front-wheel-drive setup.
Expected figures (subject to UK confirmation):
- Battery: ~64kWh usable
- Claimed range: up to 330–350 miles (WLTP)
- DC rapid charging: 10–80% in roughly 30 minutes
- AC charging: Up to 11kW on a home or depot charger
For taxi drivers, this places the EV5 Air in a sweet spot — large enough to be practical, but not so big that running costs spiral. Real-world motorway range would likely sit closer to 260–290 miles, which still covers most UK airport transfer routes comfortably with planned charging.
Comfort and Everyday Driving
The review highlights ride comfort and refinement as key strengths. Kia’s EV platform typically delivers smooth acceleration, low road noise, and predictable handling — all important for drivers spending long hours behind the wheel.
For families or professional drivers, the EV5 Air’s higher driving position and good visibility also make urban driving and longer motorway trips less tiring.
Where the EV5 Air Fits in the Market
Positioned between compact EV crossovers and large seven-seat SUVs, the EV5 Air could appeal to:
- Families needing space without going full-size SUV
- Private hire drivers wanting a modern, comfortable EV
- Airport transfer operators looking to future-proof their fleet
- Drivers priced out of premium EVs like Tesla Model Y or EV9
If Kia prices the EV5 Air competitively in the UK — as it has with other models — it could become a popular alternative to Tesla, Volkswagen, and Hyundai offerings. You can watch the full review below:
DM News Commentary
The EV5 Air is another sign that manufacturers are starting to target the middle ground — vehicles that work both as family cars and as professional tools. For the taxi and private hire trade, that matters.
Drivers don’t just need range; they need space, comfort, reliability, and predictable costs. If the EV5 Air lands at the right price point and Kia maintains its strong warranty and servicing reputation, this could quietly become a very common sight on UK roads — especially for airport work.
It won’t replace MPVs or 8-seaters, but as a premium-leaning five-seat EV, the EV5 Air looks like it could slot perfectly into the modern taxi and private hire landscape.
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