Kia Sorento vs Kia EV5
What's the difference?

Kia Sorento

$42,990 - $86,990

2025 price

View pricing & specs

Kia EV5

$49,990 - $76,698

2025 price

View pricing & specs

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2025 Kia Sorento

2025 Kia EV5

By Emily Agar

By Andrew Chesterton

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.6L

Not Applicable, 0.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Electric

Fuel Efficiency

1.6L/100km (combined)

0.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Superb comfort and features
Family focused practicality
Easy-going driving experience

Very comfortable and capable drive experience
Entry-level pricing on point
Strong warranty offering and $350 a year servicing

Dislikes

Price vs value equation doesn't add up
Limited electric driving range
No curtain airbags in the third row

Artificially heavy steering
Noticeable wind noise at times
Uncomfortable cabin materials

2025 Kia Sorento Summary

The plug-in hybrid market is slowly but surely gaining traction in Australia, and Kia has thrown its hat into the ring with the flagship Sorento GT-Line PHEV AWD.

This top-spec seven-seat large SUV pairs family friendly practicality with the promise of lower emissions and petrol savings, at least, in theory.

So, is it the right blend of convenience, space and efficiency for busy families looking to dip a toe into electrification? That’s exactly what my family and I have been finding out.

View full pricing & specs

2025 Kia EV5 Summary

Make no mistake, you are looking at the biggest challenge the all-conquering Tesla Model Y has ever faced in Australia.

It’s the Kia EV5, a mid-size, all-electric SUV the Korean brand thinks will be its best-selling EV by some margin.

Oh, and it’s cheaper than the Tesla, by more than a little bit.

So, is this the electric SUV that might finally put an end to Tesla’s winning run in Australia?

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2025 Kia Sorento 2025 Kia EV5

Verdict

The Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV is a sumptuously equipped seven-seater that delivers comfort, tech and an easy-going drive. It presents well on the surface, and for the right buyer (one who can make the most of its plug-in capabilities ) it could be a smart, low-emissions option for family life.

But for all its polish, it doesn’t quite do enough to justify itself as the best Sorento in the range. The electric-only driving range isn’t especially generous, and the higher price tag , combined with its lower towing capacity, may leave some families wondering whether the diesel variant is the more practical choice.

It’s not a bad car by any means, but the flagship GT-Line PHEV feels more like a stepping stone than a standout.

Verdict

The size is right, the price is right and the drive is right – three things that make the Kia EV5 a pretty formidable foe, and the kind of vehicle that might finally be able to break through the wall of the temple of Tesla in Australia.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.

Kia Sorento vs Kia EV5 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Kia Sorento vs Kia EV5
What's the difference?