Kia is gearing up to expand its electric ambitions with the arrival of the EV4, a striking new model that brings a fresh edge to the compact EV market. Closely resembling the concept that turned heads in 2023, the production EV4 remains faithful in design and shares its architecture with the recently unveiled EV3 hatchback.
Offered in both hatchback and saloon body styles, the EV4 covers a broad spectrum of buyers. The hatchback version is roughly the same size as the Hyundai Kona Electric, while the saloon stretches out to a length that surpasses the Tesla Model 3, thanks to its extended rear overhang.
In Europe, the EV4 will primarily be sold as a hatchback, where it is poised to take on rivals like the Citroën ë-C4, Volkswagen ID.3, and Volvo EX40. With sharp styling, solid range figures, and a tech-laden cabin, Kia is clearly aiming for a strong foothold in this competitive segment.
Both body styles come with a single front-mounted motor producing 201 hp, good for a 0–62mph sprint in the mid-7-second range, depending on battery and trim level. Performance enthusiasts won’t be left out, either—Kia has confirmed that all of its EVs are in line for hot GT variants, so expect a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive GT version of the EV4 with enough punch to rival the MG 4 EV XPower.
As for range, the entry-level EV4 is fitted with a 58.3kWh battery, which offers up to 273 miles on a single charge in hatchback form. Step up to the 81.4kWh battery, and the hatchback’s range extends to an impressive 388 miles. Charging is swift, too: a 10–80% top-up takes at least 29 minutes for the smaller pack and 31 minutes for the larger.
Inside, the EV4 shares its high-tech interior with the EV3, boasting a sleek 30-inch dashboard screen. This includes two 12.3-inch displays—one for infotainment, one for the instrument cluster—split by a 5.3-inch climate control panel. Notably, the EV4 will be the first Kia to support in-car entertainment apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, hinting at a more leisure-oriented EV experience.
While full pricing details for the EV4 saloon are still under wraps, it’s expected to launch in the UK after the hatchback. That’s due to a difference in manufacturing: the hatch will be built in Slovakia, while the saloon will be produced in Korea, Kia’s home market.
With its combination of sleek design, generous range, and tech-rich interior, the Kia EV4 is shaping up to be a serious player in the electric C-segment. Watch this space.
Source: KIA
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