Overview
The EV5 Air Long Range pairs the larger 88kWh battery with the entry-level Air trim — the combination that prioritises range and charging speed over interior specification. At approximately $64,900, it occupies the same price bracket as the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD and the Ioniq 5 Elite. Both are excellent cars; the EV5 counters with a larger SUV body, 240kW DC charging (versus Model Y’s 250kW), and a seven-year unlimited warranty versus Tesla’s four-year/80,000km.
For Australian families who want a mid-size SUV with 600+km of range and fast highway charging — and who don’t need the AWD capability of the Earth and GT-Line — the Air LR is the straightforward recommendation.
Pricing & Variants
| Variant | Battery | WLTP Range | Drive | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EV5 Air SR | 64kWh | ~520 km | FWD | ~$54,900 |
| EV5 Air LR | 88kWh | ~620 km | FWD | ~$64,900 |
| EV5 Earth LR AWD | 88kWh | ~590 km | AWD | ~$69,900 |
| EV5 GT-Line LR AWD | 88kWh | ~590 km | AWD | ~$72,900 |
Performance, Range, and Charging
160kW and 310Nm, FWD. 0-100 km/h around 8.5 seconds with the larger, heavier 88kWh pack. Highway driving at 110 km/h with climate control returns 500 to 540km real-world range. Urban cycling: 570 to 600km.
240kW DC — 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 24 minutes at a compatible station. Overnight home charging at 11kW three-phase: approximately 9 hours. V2L 3.6kW standard.
Interior and Practicality
Same as Air SR but the larger battery improves highway confidence. 12.3-inch infotainment, physical controls, five-star NCAP safety suite. Boot: ~520L. Flat floor, genuine five-seat family accommodation.
Verdict
The Air LR is the EV5 variant for buyers who need long range and fast charging in a mid-size SUV without AWD and without the top-trim premium. At $64,900, it delivers a more complete ownership proposition than most alternatives at the same price — 620km WLTP, 240kW DC, seven-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Air LR better than paying more for the Earth AWD?
The $5,000 premium for the Earth AWD buys dual-motor traction and more interior specification. If your driving involves wet roads, gravel, or load-heavy towing, AWD is worth it. If you drive primarily on sealed roads and want maximum range, the Air LR’s FWD and lighter mass provide better real-world range from the same 88kWh battery.
