The Kia PV5 has been spotted testing in the U.S. and was showcased as a potential wheelchair-accessible taxi at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, signaling a possible U.S. launch. Internationally, including the UK, Kia is expanding the PV5 portfolio with configurations to cater to a wider range of applications.
At the 2026 Busan Mobility Show, Kia is showcasing a new 7-seat option for the passenger version of the PV5. We had a chance to check out the Kia PV5 7-seater van at the event, and here are some interesting observations we made:
Design
Designed under Kia’s Opposites United philosophy, the semi-bonneted electric van features EV-typical aerodynamic touches and a futuristic look, but retains the upright, boxy proportions needed for a high volume-to-surface ratio.
At the front, distinctively angled vertical daytime running lights flank the gloss black hood, and rectangular headlights have been positioned horizontally low down on either side of the charging port in the fascia.
Further below, the active air flaps open when needed and remain closed at other times to minimize drag. A U-shaped silver skid plate completes the look.
The protective body cladding at the corners of the front bumper continues along the sides, extending over the wheel arches and lower door sections.
The gloss-black hood treatment flows into the body and door mirrors. The 16-inch wheels feature a geometric, aero-focused design with a two-tone finish. At the rear, the vertical combination lamps have technical-looking graphics.
Interior
Inside, the PV5 7-seater’s dashboard has a basic, utilitarian design. The two-spoke steering wheel gives the cabin a lighter, less commercial feel. Kia uses a 7-inch driver information display and a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system for a car-like experience.
The seven-seat electric van has a 2-2-3 seating layout and comes with convenience features such as rear AC, heated rear seats, and USB Type-C charging ports for rear passengers. Kia says the model is suitable for large families as well as rental and shuttle operators, though we see the latter making up the lion’s share of sales.
Experience in the PV5 7-seater
I spent time in the Korean-spec PV5 7-seater, and the cabin feels practical, roomy, and clearly built with price and functionality in mind. Getting into the second row takes little effort because the floor is set lower, and the grab handle on the B-pillar ensures that ingress is comfortable.
Once inside, though, the space is impressive. Even for someone around 6 feet tall, there is abundant knee room, and I found the seating position comfortable.
The second-row seats are fixed, so there is no sliding function, but the basic comfort level is good. Under-thigh support and back support are alright, though not exceptional, and seat heating is a practical addition for winter road trips.
One thing I missed was a center armrest, as these are joined seats, so passengers do not get the individual comfort of a premium minivan. The earlier leg-rest-style platform near the front seat mounts is also missing here.
Visibility from the second row feels more than adequate, but the window setup is basic, as with current PV5 variants. There is no conventional rear window glass that rolls down. Instead, only a small section manually slides open behind part of the window. The vehicle also does not get a sunroof or a glass roof, which reinforces the impression that this van is designed to a cost.
Access to the third row is very easy because of the clear walk-through passage. The right outboard third-row seat is the place here for a 6-footer because there is space to stretch forward, but the middle third-row position is not comfortable for someone that tall.
My knees brushed against the second-row seatbacks, and since the second row cannot slide forward, space is just about there for a six-footer in the middle and outer positions.
That said, headroom is not a problem, and the third row gets adjustable headrests, air-conditioning vents, heated outboard seats, a cupholder, and manual backrest recline to improve comfort.
Specifications
Specifications of the Korean-spec PV5 7-seater are expected to be released in a few months, closer to the launch. As for the UK-spec model, the company offers it with only a front-mounted motor that produces 120 kW (161 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb.-ft.) of torque and a 71.2 kWh NMC battery pack.
The PV5 Passenger 7-seat offers a WLTP range of more than 242 miles (390 km) pending homologation. With DC fast-charging support at up to 150 kW, Kia says the battery can be charged from 10-80% in under 30 minutes.
Price & Availability
Now available to order, the Kia PV5 7-seater’s price in the UK start at GBP 36,995 (USD 48,914) and go up to GBP 41,975 (USD 55,499). Production for the British market begins in mid-July.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
