Kia EV5 vs Zeekr X
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Kia EV5 starts from $49,770 before on-road costs, while the Zeekr X opens at $49,900. That makes the Kia EV5 the more affordable entry point by $130.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $54,747 and $54,890 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Kia EV5 and Zeekr X hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the Kia EV5 and 91% for the Zeekr X.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Zeekr X packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Kia EV5.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Kia EV5 and 7 in the Zeekr X. The Zeekr X adds a 360-degree camera that the Kia EV5 misses.
Feature Showdown
The Kia EV5 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Zeekr X gets a 14.6-inch display and 8.8-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Kia EV5 stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Zeekr X. The Zeekr X counters with panoramic roof, Yamaha audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Kia EV5 gets cloth upholstery while the Zeekr X offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The Kia EV5 uses a Electric producing 160kW and 310Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.2 seconds.
The Zeekr X responds with a Electric making 250kW and 373Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The Zeekr X has the clear power advantage at 250kW vs 160kW. In the real-world sprint, the Kia EV5 is 1.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 64.2kWh (Kia EV5) vs 61kWh (Zeekr X), giving WLTP ranges of 511km and 540km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Kia EV5) vs 230kW (Zeekr X).
Space & Comfort
The Kia EV5 measures 4,615mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 183mm longer than the Zeekr X at 4,432mm (2,750mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 460L in the Kia EV5 and 239L in the Zeekr X, giving the Kia EV5 a 221L advantage.
For towing, the Zeekr X leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV5) vs 5 years / 200,000km (Zeekr X). The Kia EV5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kia EV5 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Zeekr X if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Zeekr's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV5 takes 5 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Kia EV5 has a clear edge. The Kia EV5 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Kia EV5 and Zeekr X?
The Kia EV5 is the cheapest at $49,770 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Zeekr X by $130.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Kia EV5 has the most range at 480km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Zeekr X accepts the highest DC charging at up to 230kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Kia EV5 and Zeekr X all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Kia EV5 has the largest boot at 460L.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia EV5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia EV5 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Zeekr X makes the most power at 250kW. The Kia EV5 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.2s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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