What's the difference?
You’re after a premium SUV with size for five, without exceeding the ideal metropolitan footprint. It should have adequate oomph for occasional forays into wider open spaces, but offer enough comfort and luxury to keep you cool and relaxed in the city.
And you’d rather look at something outside the predictable Euro brand path. The Lexus UX 200 F-Sport may just be your ideal urban companion.
Kia is no stranger to vans, nor electric cars. The very successful Carnival and the family of EV-named models from 3 to 9 have proven that.
But the 2026 Kia PV5 is the first time Kia’s launched a model that fits in both categories, and it comes with a futuristic design, low price, and competitive electric driving range.
It’s clear Kia hopes those looking at rivals like the VW ID.Buzz, Renault Kangoo E-Tech or Peugeot E-Partner will consider a PV5, but can it lure away buyers of diesel stalwarts like the Toyota HiAce or Ford Transit?
The Lexus UX 200 F Sport really steps up in the urban context. It’s big enough, energetic enough (especially using the Sport setting and the CVT’s manual mode), and delivers good value for the price. We’d like more boot space, a little more room in the back seat, and the Remote Touch media interface deposited in the bin. But overall it’s a great premium option for young families or active couples in the city.
Kia isn’t expecting the PV5 to light the sales charts on fire, but it is hoping to get in on the ground floor when businesses start looking to EVs to replace their diesel fleets.
In that sense, Kia seems onto a winner here, given the PV5 feels wholly suited to short-distance courier or call-out trade work.
It’s cleverly designed and pleasant from the driver’s seat, and its low outlay and running costs will surely place it high on fleet buyers’ lists.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.