Kia K4 is a new hatchback for those not yet ready to go electric
Kia has revealed the spec for its new K4 hatchback in Europe, which the brand says the K4 ‘blurs the line, differentiating the C- and D-segment’ and ‘meets the demands of modern drivers’.
The five-door K4 will take the place of the outgoing Ceed in Kia’s lineup, which recently exited the range after nearly 20 years in production, and will challenge competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.
Powertrain options
A range of engine options will be available at launch, beginning with the 1.0-litre petrol engine, which is available with a six-speed manual transmission. A mild-hybrid version is also available, which can be paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission instead.
For a little extra oomph, there are 1.6 litre petrol powered versions producing either 148bhp or 178bhp, both available with the seven speed automatic transmission as standard. Joining these options later in 2026 will be a full hybrid version.
Exterior Design
Yes, Kia may define this as a hatchback, but it is positively SUV challenging and pushes the boundaries at 4,440mm long and 1,850mm wide.
The K4 sits on a choice of 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels and incorporates a high floating roofline, lighting inspired by the EV9 and hidden rear door handles. The images released by Kia show a brand new paintwork colour - Sparkling Yellow.
Interior space is also in abundance, with rear passengers treated to 964mm of legroom and 438 litres of boot space.
Interior & Tech
The K4 is kitted out with heated and ventilated front seats upholstered in artificial leather as part of a five-seat setup.
For the driver and front passenger, there’s a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 5.3-inch climate display and 12.3-inch touchscreen operated infotainment screen, which contains navigation, multimedia and settings in a single interface. The car is compatible with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims, although higher level trims come with the addition of wireless phone charging.
The K4 also contains a large amount of tech, including the Digital Key 2.0 (allowing smartphones to function as virtual keys), Wifi hotspot compatibility and an AI-powered voice assistant. Driving assistance features are also included as standard, with Highway Driving Assist 2.0 and Smart Cruise Control 2, a helpful tool to use on motorway journeys.
Music streaming services are also available, and play out of a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
When will the Kia K4 be released?
The Kia K4 will be produced at the brand’s new facility in Mexico before arriving in UK showrooms by the end of 2025. Full pricing and specifications are due to be revealed closer to that date, although we expect it to sit in the high twenties price bracket.
“With the K4, we are demonstrating how our models can deliver dynamic design, innovation, and intelligent technology irrespectively from their powertrain,” said Sjoerd Knipping, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Europe. “The K4 reflects our mission to make exciting mobility accessible to all by supporting customers who are not yet ready for fully electric vehicles.”
READ MORE: Kia EV9 - The First 7-Seat eSUV review by John Marcar
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Kia