Tough 2025 Kia EV5 WKDNR concept shown in China 

Kia has shown off its latest WKNDR concept, this time applying the hardcore all-terrain treatment to its middling EV5 electric SUV.

Having debuted quietly at the Guangzhou motor show last week, the EV5 is the fourth adventure-spec concept to follow the Tasman, PV5 WKNDR, and EV9 ADVENTR – showing Kia’s keen interest in expanding its portfolio into new realms.

At the time of writing, Kia has revealed little about the EV5 WKNDR, with details limited to what’s visible in official images: new bumpers front and rear, raised suspension, flared arches, wider tracks, aggressive wheels and tyres, a roof platform, recreation-friendly interior full of storage and mounting options.

It would make little sense to outfit a medium SUV so extensively if it couldn’t handle more than a puddle – which all but guarantees the EV5 WKNDR will feature a dual-motor powertrain, most likely the 230kW/480Nm system used in the local Earth and GT-Line.

Kia has made a habit recently of debuting EV concepts when they’re only an iteration or two away from their production form, but according to Kia Australia, the EV5 WKNDR is only a concept and not immediately indicative of a production model.

That said, it’s clear Kia is looking to diversify its line-up and could even be planning an off-road halo sub-brand aimed at the Nissan Warrior, Toyota GR Sport and Ford Raptor programs since there are now four WKNDR concept models, all offering significantly more capability than the existing X-Line variants – mild suspension lift, unique equipment list – available overseas.

The tough EV5 concept could also be providing us with a sneak peek of what’s on the cards for a future EV5 facelift – note the new lighting signature, relocated panoramic display, minimalist cluster, reshaped and reorganised steering wheel, split front seats and overhauled centre console and stack.

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