The Kia PV5’s full details have been revealed: three models, powertrain options, and a whole lot of modularity.
At last, the real deal. We liked what we saw when we caught up with Kia’s PV5 prototype in person late last year ( even if was a little too chatty for our liking) but now we can share the full details.
The first instalment from Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) range — the Korean brand’s first foray into the world of vans — has officially been unveiled: the PV5.
Why reveal one model, when you can reveal three?
Following a similar blueprint to Mercedes’ VAN.EA architecture and the Renault Flexis range, the PV5 consists of a modular van body sat atop Kia’s ‘E-GMP.S’ framework — a battery-electric skateboard platform which underpins the entire PBV range. But that’s old news, so what’s the fresh scoop?
Quite a lot: we were treated to not just one new model, but three. Well, actually, five if you include the wheelchair accessible and crew cab spinoffs shown, but the focus was on the three core variations.
PV5 Passenger
Image credit: Kia
First up: the PV5 Passenger, available later this year. Kia have positioned this as the people-carrier of the range, taking input from Uber to hone its ride hailing capabilities.
Like Inception for vans, there is modularity within the modular body, exemplified by the three ‘fold-and-dive’ seating rows which can be optimised to different user needs. Expecting a lot of luggage? Throw the chairs into a 2-3-0 formation and you’ll free up the back for suitcases, or drop into an ultra-defensive 1-2-3 layout and the driver-side space becomes available as a spot to haul belongings.
Image credit: Kia
Storage nooks and crannies are then moulded around these seating setups. For example, in 2-3-0 you’ll find storage adapted into the dash, front, middle, and back rows, as well as the floor. Add to this a smattering of USB ports, alongside some heated rear seats to keep passengers comfy, and we reckon all that’s missing is an orange taxi light on top.
That said, Kia also boasts the 1-2-3 layout’s potential as ‘an ideal setup for a weekend camping trip’, giving a peek at the van’s flexibility. Will the reclining seats allow for an unexpected competitor for the likes of Ford’s Nugget camper or VW’s California? We’ll keep our eyes peeled.