Kia Pv5 vs Ford F150

What's the difference?

The all-new PV5 Cargo is Kia’s first full-electric van which expands the popular Korean brand’s growing electrified vehicle range into Australia’s light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment.

Designed from the ground up on Kia’s new E-GMP.S chassis platform, which is specifically designed for current and future electric LCV applications, the PV5 eliminates the compromises often associated with adapted internal combustion engine (ICE) platforms to optimise interior space, ease of loading and drivetrain efficiency with 400km-plus driving range.

It has not only won the prestigious 2026 International Van of the Year award but its compact dimensions also carve out a new niche for buyers wanting a vehicle larger than a small van (under 2.5-tonne GVM) but more compact than a mid-size one (2.5 to 3.5-tonne GVM).

We recently spent a working week behind the wheel to see if this purpose-built full-electric newcomer has what it takes to win over Aussie van buyers.

The Ford F-150 Platinum – the new top-shelf variant in the company’s F Series truck range – has arrived in Australia as part of the a refreshed line-up.

This full-sized dual-cab ute has a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, myriad drive modes and 4500kg towing capacity and, as such, is regarded as a rival for the likes of the Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota Tundra.

But with a price-tag tickling $164,000 before on-road costs and at a smidge under six metres long, is this big rig simply too big and too expensive?

We’re testing the short wheelbase (SWB) version this time, so let’s get into it.