Kia has officially unveiled the Kia EV4, marking its entry into the electric sedan and hatchback segment. This reveal, which took place at the Kia EV Day 2025 in Tarragona, Spain, showcases Kia’s commitment to expanding electric vehicle (EV) adoption and appealing to a wider range of drivers. Alongside the EV4, Kia also previewed the Concept EV2, a future B-segment electric SUV, signaling a comprehensive electric lineup for the coming years.
The Kia EV4 is designed to be a versatile and practical vehicle, suitable for both city driving and longer journeys. Available in both sedan (four-door) and hatchback (five-door) body styles, the EV4 aims to redefine the traditional C-segment car. Kia’s campaign slogan, ‘Your Edge in Motion,’ perfectly encapsulates the EV4’s ambition to introduce a fresh perspective to sedans and hatchbacks, traditionally a segment dominated by combustion engine vehicles. By offering the Kia EV4, Kia is providing consumers with more choices in an EV market that has largely focused on CUVs and SUVs.
As a core model in Kia’s expanding EV portfolio, the Kia EV4 targets the ‘Early Majority’ customer segment. It aims to accelerate EV adoption by combining practical and innovative design with reliable technology and a flexible EV experience that caters to diverse customer needs. The Concept EV2, on the other hand, is geared towards lifestyle-driven buyers who are enthusiastic about embracing new technology and seeking smart consumption options.
Ho Sung Song, Kia President and CEO, emphasized Kia’s vision for a sustainable future at the EV Day event, stating, “Kia EV Day shows our vision for a sustainable future where electric mobility is accessible to all. The Kia EV4 embodies that vision perfectly as a statement of our commitment to innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and a connected driving experience that excites and inspires. The EV4 marks a significant step forward in our electrification journey, offering advanced technology and a choice of body styles for drivers seeking a seamless transition to electric mobility.”
Kia EV4 Battery, Range, and Performance
The Kia EV4 is built on Kia’s dedicated 400V Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), ensuring a robust and efficient electric foundation. Prospective buyers of the Kia EV4 will have the choice between two battery options:
- Standard Battery: 58.3 kWh
- Long-Range Battery: 81.4 kWh
These battery options power a front-mounted 150 kW motor, delivering impressive performance figures. The Kia EV4 achieves a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.4 seconds for the standard range model and 7.7 seconds for the long-range variant. Both models share a top speed of 170 km/h.
However, performance is only part of the story. Kia has focused heavily on efficiency to maximize the driving range of the Kia EV4. Aerodynamic enhancements, including full underbody covers, contribute to an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd. This aerodynamic efficiency translates directly into class-leading All-Electric Range (AER) figures, according to WLTP standards:
- Kia EV4 Sedan:
- Standard Range: 430 km (WLTP)
- Long Range: 630 km (WLTP)
- Kia EV4 Hatchback:
- Long Range: 590 km (WLTP)
Charging the Kia EV4 is also designed for convenience. Utilizing a 400V EV-dedicated platform, the long-range Kia EV4 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes using DC fast charging. The EV4 is equipped with an 11 kW on-board charger, compatible with both single-phase and three-phase inputs.
Beyond charging, the Kia EV4 offers Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities. With 3.6 kVA V2L functionality, the EV4 can power external devices and appliances, making it ideal for outdoor activities or as a backup power source. Furthermore, the 10 kVA V2G capability allows for energy to be fed back into the grid, potentially offering cost savings and contributing to grid stability.
The Kia EV4’s ride and handling are tuned for a balance of comfort, compliance, and agility. The suspension system features a MacPherson strut design at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The inclusion of third-generation ‘SFD3’ frequency-responsive valves in the suspension dampers, along with hydro G suspension bushings, contributes to reduced noise and vibration and enhanced ride comfort. Optimized front-wheel-drive geometry and body strengthening further improve cornering stability and dynamic response.
Convenience and Connectivity Features of the Kia EV4
Kia has equipped the Kia EV4 with a suite of convenience and connectivity features designed to enhance the user experience in this electric sedan and hatchback.
Digital Key 2.0 provides seamless vehicle access via smartphones and even Apple Watches. This system allows users to easily lock, unlock, start the engine, and control certain vehicle functions remotely. Access can be shared with up to 15 compatible devices.
Kia’s i-Pedal 3.0 system offers variable regenerative braking, allowing drivers to customize the level of deceleration and energy recuperation. This system works across all regenerative braking levels, enhancing driving comfort, efficiency, and safety. The i-Pedal system also functions in reverse for smoother maneuvering, and the i-Pedal Memory function ensures the car remembers the driver’s preferred i-Pedal setting upon restarting.
The Kia EV4 boasts a class-leading 30-inch wide-screen display, integrating 12.3-inch, 5.3-inch, and 12.3-inch screens within the connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC). This system provides an immersive in-car entertainment experience. Remote Over-The-Air (OTA) updates allow for convenient software upgrades via a user’s mobile phone. Kia is also introducing innovative connectivity features, including customizable display themes with NBA and Disney content.
The Vehicle Smart TV solution takes in-car entertainment to new heights, offering streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, games, and karaoke. The system supports various content formats, including a 21:9 aspect ratio for YouTube and Netflix, maximizing the display area for an immersive viewing experience. Kia plans to continuously enhance this system with more categorized content and apps through an app store.
For relaxation and entertainment on the go, the Kia EV4 offers Rest Mode and Theatre Mode. Rest Mode utilizes front-row relaxation seats and mood lighting to create a comforting atmosphere. Theatre Mode optimizes the 30-inch screen, interior lighting, and the optional Harmon/Kardon eight-speaker sound system for an exceptional viewing experience.
Kia’s AI Assistant leverages machine learning to improve voice recognition accuracy, enhancing the connection between the Kia EV4 and external information systems for a more user-friendly experience.
Kia EV4 Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Safety is a paramount concern for Kia, and the Kia EV4 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The application of Kia’s Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) technology aims to transform the driving experience by providing seamless integration of driver assistance features.
ADAS functionality includes:
- Driver Attention Warning
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2
- Lane Following Assist 2
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
- Remote Parking Assist Entry
A 12-inch windshield Head-up Display is available, projecting key information like speed and navigation directly into the driver’s line of sight. Kia’s Direct Grip Detection System (HOD) monitors driver contact with the steering wheel, allowing for easy deactivation of ADAS warnings with a simple touch.
The optional Driving Package F+ (‘Drive Wise’) further enhances safety with advanced detection capabilities using cameras and radars to assist the driver in hazardous situations.
In terms of passive safety, the Kia EV4’s structure is optimized with advanced passenger and battery safety designs. This includes a multi-load path in the front battery area and safeguards for rear-end collisions. The roof is designed to withstand over five times the vehicle’s weight, and a multi-rib structure in the rocker panel provides enhanced side protection.
Kia is targeting top safety ratings for the Kia EV4, including a five-star Euro NCAP rating (with optional ADAS F+ package), a five-star US NCAP rating, and the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.
Kia EV4 Design Philosophy: Opposites United
The design of the Kia EV4 embodies Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, drawing inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity. This philosophy translates into a modern and expressive aesthetic for both the sedan and hatchback versions.
The exterior of the Kia EV4 features a low nose and long-tail silhouette, creating a sporty and innovative profile. A wide stance emphasizes modernity and refinement, while vertically oriented headlamps and Kia’s Star Map lighting signature identify the EV4 as part of the Kia EV family. The bold front end incorporates Kia’s new EV Tiger Face, highlighting its electric identity.
The rear design of the Kia EV4 sedan features a two-piece spoiler and clean bumper, while the hatchback version emphasizes its sporty character with sloping rear windows and elongated proportions.
Inside, the Kia EV4 offers a minimalist yet high-tech cabin with unexpected contrasts in form, color, and material. The design blends soft, human-centric elements with industrial themes. The free-floating user interface and asymmetric one-spoke steering wheel are key features that combine design flair with enhanced functionality.
Occupant comfort and space are central to the Kia EV4’s interior design. Features like a rotating armrest, a sliding table console, and maximized seating space contribute to a comfortable and practical cabin. The Kia EV4 sedan offers a class-leading luggage space of 490 liters, while the hatchback provides 435 liters.
The Kia EV4 GT-line variant adds exclusive design elements for a more dynamic appearance, including wing-shaped front and rear bumpers and triangular-motif 19-inch wheels.
Kia EV4 Production and Market Release
The Kia EV4 sedan will be produced at Kia’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO Plant in Korea, with production commencing in mid-March, initially for the Korean market. The Kia EV4 hatchback will be produced in Slovakia, primarily targeting European sales, with production starting in the second half of the year. Production for North America and other regions is planned for later in the year.
Sales of the Kia EV4 are scheduled to begin in Korea in March 2025, followed by a European launch in the second half of 2025, and subsequently in the United States.
Kia Concept EV2: Previewing a Future Electric SUV
Alongside the Kia EV4, Kia also unveiled the Concept EV2 at the EV Day event, providing a glimpse into the brand’s vision for a future B-segment all-electric SUV. The Concept EV2 emphasizes innovation and adventure, with advanced connected technology, a spacious and configurable interior, and rear-hinged back doors for enhanced urban exploration.
The Concept EV2 features a clean and confident exterior design with vertical Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and Kia’s Star Map signature lighting. Despite its compact size, the Concept EV2 projects a bold and premium feel with its strong silhouette and rugged bumpers. The interior prioritizes sustainability and flexibility, with rear-hinged doors, a flat floor, and versatile seating arrangements.
The Kia EV2 is expected to launch in Europe and other regions in 2026, further expanding Kia’s electric vehicle lineup and catering to the growing demand for electric SUVs in urban environments.
Kia EV4 Full Specifications
| Kia EV4 full specifications |
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| Battery |
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| Charging |
| AC Charging (10-100%) |
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| ADAS features |
