Kia’s electric SUV, the EV5, has been spotted towing a trailer in the United States for the first time, raising questions about whether the vehicle could be launched beyond its previously announced Canadian market exclusivity.
The EV5, roughly the size of the Tesla Model Y, has seen strong sales in China and Australia. Kia’s joint venture in China, Yueda Kia, recorded its first profit in seven years in 2024, partly driven by the success of the EV5. In Australia, the EV5 ranks as the fourth-best-selling electric vehicle this year, behind the Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, and Tesla Model 3.
Kia is planning to launch the standard EV5 in Europe later this year, followed by Canada in early 2026. The automaker previously confirmed that the EV5 would remain exclusive to Canada in North America, but sightings of a new EV5 GT variant in the U.S. have sparked speculation about a possible broader rollout.
The EV5 GT, part of Kia’s performance-focused lineup that includes the EV6 GT and EV9 GT, was seen with distinctive design elements such as neon green brake calipers and sporty wheels. Observers noted the towing test as an indication of Kia evaluating the vehicle’s performance and capacity for practical applications.
In Europe, the standard EV5 is equipped with an 81.4 kWh battery providing up to 329 miles of range under the WLTP cycle, while Canadian versions will offer 60.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh options with up to 310 miles (500 km). The GT variant is expected to feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system with estimated output of over 600 horsepower and acceleration from 0–62 mph in approximately 3.5 seconds, along with advanced driving features including drift optimization, Virtual Gear Shift, and launch control.
Kia has yet to provide official specifications, pricing, or confirmation of a U.S. launch. The company said the EV5 will remain exclusive to Canada in the North American market until further notice.
