Kia's PV5 Passenger Delivers Spacious, Smooth Shuttle Experience

A Unique Driving Experience with Kia’s PV5 Passenger

Driving Kia’s first Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV), the ‘PV5 Passenger,’ felt like operating a quiet school shuttle bus. Over the course of approximately 100 km in the Seoul-Gyeonggi area, from the 1st to the 4th of last month, I had the opportunity to experience this innovative vehicle firsthand.

Spacious and Versatile Interior

One of the most notable features of the PV5 Passenger is its spaciousness. The design includes an additional small window between the front windshield and the driver’s side window, which provides an open view from the driver's seat. This thoughtful addition enhances visibility without compromising on safety or aesthetics.

Passengers can enjoy a generous interior space, thanks to a wheelbase of 2,995 mm. The flexible seat arrangement allows for various configurations. Folding the second-row seats transforms the vehicle into a large camping car, while unfolding them turns it into a multipurpose vehicle similar to the Carnival. The cargo space expands from 1,330 liters to a maximum of 2,310 liters, making it ideal for transporting large items.

The interior is so spacious that even a passenger who is 175 cm tall can move from the rear seats with minimal bending, almost as if walking upright. However, due to the design, the rear seats give a somewhat empty impression, which might not be ideal for all users.

Smooth and Efficient Performance

The PV5 Passenger is powered by an electric motor with a maximum output of 120 kW, ensuring smooth driving performance. It can travel up to 358 km on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes or longer trips.

Handling and Design Considerations

Initially, the vehicle’s length of 4.7 meters seemed like a significant burden while driving. However, these concerns quickly disappeared once I got behind the wheel. The high body provides a wide field of view, and the short 770 mm bonnet allows for smooth cornering, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Despite its advantages, the rear seat comfort was somewhat lacking. Since the passenger area was designed to maximize space, the floor is relatively close to the road surface, which can transmit vibrations more directly. This might be a drawback for those prioritizing comfort over space.

Ideal for Specific Use Cases

As a ‘shuttle’ vehicle for transporting multiple people or carrying large amounts of luggage, the PV5 Passenger is flawless. Its versatility and spacious design make it suitable for commercial use or group transportation. However, if chosen as a family car, further consideration may be needed. The design might polarize reviews, as it caters more to specific needs rather than general family use.