Kia PV5 vs Volkswagen Caddy
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Vans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 PV5 starts from $55,990 before on-road costs, while the Volkswagen Caddy opens at $57,600. That makes the Kia PV5 the more affordable entry point by $1,610.
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 $61,589 and $63,360 respectively.
The Kia PV5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Volkswagen Caddy, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Kia PV5 by roughly $4,300 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Volkswagen Caddy counters with wireless charging that the Kia PV5 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Kia PV5 uses a Electric Motor producing 120kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 12.5 seconds.
The Volkswagen Caddy responds with a Petrol I4 Turbo TSI making 84kW and 220Nm, paired to a 7-speed dual clutch (dsg) driving the front wheels.
The Kia PV5 has the clear power advantage at 120kW vs 84kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Kia PV5 measures 4,695mm long on a 2,995mm wheelbase, 158mm shorter than the Volkswagen Caddy at 4,853mm (2,970mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia PV5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 1500L in the Kia PV5 and 446L in the Volkswagen Caddy, giving the Kia PV5 a 1054L advantage. The Volkswagen Caddy seats 7 vs 5.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m diameter
Large
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $907/year for the Kia PV5 and $1,767/year for the Volkswagen Caddy. That is a $860 annual difference in favour of the Kia PV5.
Estimated annual total: $907 (Kia PV5) vs $1,767 (Volkswagen Caddy). The Kia PV5 saves you roughly $860 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Kia PV5) vs 5 years (Volkswagen Caddy). The Kia PV5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kia PV5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Volkswagen Caddy if: You or prefer Volkswagen's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia PV5 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Kia PV5 will save you roughly $860 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Kia PV5 has a clear edge. The Kia PV5 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.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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