LEAKED: KIA EV5 GT DESIGN REVEALED AHEAD OF OFFICIAL DEBUT

We’ve known for some time that the Kia EV5 GT was in the works, and now, thanks to the Chinese government’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, we’re getting an early look at the design of the sporty crossover. Visually, the differences between the GT and the standard model are more minor than expected. There’s a unique trim design on the lower parts of the front bumper, with gloss black inserts and color-coded trim instead of the silver finish applied to the regular EV5.

The color coding extends to the side of the EV5 GT, where a body-colored and gloss black panel replaces the base model’s metal effect and matte black trim. Round back, similar changes have taken place, with the squared-off rear fascia comprising a different bumper with a larger license plate holder and the same trim effect. While different, it doesn’t look overly sporty. Then again, the differences between the EV6 and EV6 GT are subtle, which hasn’t affected the latter’s startling performance.

Decent Power Levels, But Don't Expect EV6 GT Performance

Speaking of performance, the leak has also revealed some interesting technical tidbits. To start with, the EV5 GT will utilize a dual-motor setup. Like the standard model, the front axle-mounted motor produces 215 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque. However, the rear axle adds 98 hp and 125 lb-ft, which makes for a combined output of 313 hp.

Revolutionary Kia EV5 Officially Revealed Inside And Out

The angular lines are in total contrast to another compact electric crossover, the Tesla Model Y.

Those numbers aren't particularly exciting, and despite its size, the EV5 GT is a heavy fellow, tipping the scales at 4,916 lbs - nearly 200 lbs more than a Mercedes-Benz S580. No acceleration figures have been provided, but we’d expect a 0-60 mph time between 6 and 6.5 seconds. 20-inch wheels wrapped in 255/40 rubber should provide superior handling to the base EV5.

Can We Expect The EV5 GT In America?

In terms of size, the EV5 GT boasts the same generous 108.3-inch wheelbase as the standard model and measures 73.8 inches wide, 67.5 inches tall, and 181.7 inches long. The battery size is unknown, but we expect the EV5 GT to use the 81 kWh pack in the EV5 Long-range models. As for range, we expect a practical crossover to provide at least 250 miles between trips to the charging station. CLTC estimates suggest the long-range model can travel 447 miles on a single charge.

An EPA rating will never happen; company executives have said the electric crossover will not be sold in the United States. That being said, there’s a possibility that Kia will eventually establish local production of the EV5, allowing for a potential tax credit and lower purchase prices. At least American consumers can look forward to the range-topping Kia EV9 GT, due sometime in 2025.