Kia unveils EV5 WKNDR edition in China

MANILA: Kia has unveiled the WKNDR edition of the EV5 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) at the recently held Guangzhou Auto Show in China. 

Per the Hyundai-owned South Korean car company, the special version of its electric vehicle seeks to fulfill the automobile’s potential as a catalyst for adventure. 

Conceived and designed entirely by the Kia Design China team, the Kia EV5 WKNDR embodies the spirit of the “Spontaneous Escape Enabler,” and offers modern explorers the freedom to transition seamlessly from city to nature. 

“More than a concept car, the EV5 WKNDR is a versatile companion for the modern explorer. It is designed for those who dream of escaping to nature, acting as a reliable partner that makes ‘getting out and going far’ an effortless, spontaneous decision,” Kia wrote in a press release. 

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Key features 

The Kia EV5 WKNDR has several notable features that help it become a flexible, multi-scenario base camp as well as a thoughtfully crafted space that bridges the gap between urban convenience and outdoor exploration. 

Here are a few of those appointments: 

• A sliding display with a modern, flat-art human-machine interface creates a clean, intuitive digital interface.
• The center console is a hub of creativity and practicality, featuring a rotatable armrest with a built-in walkie-talkie cradle for off-grid communication and an anti-insect camping lamp that provides light, scent, and sound.
• The modular seats are ventilated, rotating, and folding, transforming into footrests or creating extended storage. A detachable jump seat can be taken outside to serve as instant, portable camping seating.
• A rail system in the trunk allows for flexible storage, and the trunk cover itself doubles as a portable table. 

In addition, the Kia EV5 WKNDR also packs digital features that allow it to become a reliable co-pilot, designed to be helpful, not distracting, while making adventure planning simple and social. 

Below are the said digital technologies: 

• Key data like battery level, range, and next-turn navigation are presented in a clear, “glanceable” format.
• The system facilitates group travel, shared routes, and camping checklist management, turning a solo trip into a shared social memory.

A detachable trailer system was also showcased during the concept display in China. Per Kia, the trailer acts as a customizable mobile base station, enabling scenarios like a drone-assisted climbing expedition, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen for sunset gatherings, or a cozy stargazing retreat under the open sky. 

“The EV5 WKNDR represents a new chapter for Kia, showcasing an ability to create vehicles that are deeply relevant locally while possessing a spirit with worldwide appeal. The concept enables users to live their lives to the fullest, pursuing the desire for spontaneous freedom and reconnection with nature, which resonates on a global scale,” the company said. 

Bound for PH 

Good news for Filipino fans of the Kia brand as the company’s local wing has confirmed the arrival of the EV5 sometime in the first quarter of 2026.  

The announcement was made during the Ayala-led Kia Philippines’ presentation at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, held last October. 

Here are some of its expected features: 

Electric powertrain

• Single electric motor 
• 88.1-kilowatt-hour battery 
• 214 horsepower
• 310 Newton-meters of torque
• 550 kilometer range

Dimensions

Overall length (in millimeters [mm>)	4,615
Overall width (in mm)	1,875
Overall height (in mm)	1,715

Other features

• Power-adjustable front seats with power-adjustable lumbar supports
• Fabric and leather upholstery
• LED lighting fixtures
• Panoramic sunroof
• Wireless smartphone charging pad
• 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
• 12.3-inch infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Over-the-air software updates
• Dual-zone automatic climate controls

Also read: 

Kia Seltos SX arrives in PH

Here are the possible alternatives to the Kia Seltos

Old vs. new: What are the upgrades on 2024 Kia Seltos?

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