The Kia EV4 is an exciting addition to Kia’s award-winning EV lineup, aiming to redefine the C-segment with its innovative approach to design, technology, and electrification. As the first electrified sedan and hatchback from Kia, the EV4 introduces a versatile and practical solution for electric mobility, appealing to both city users and long-distance travelers. Here’s everything we know about the Kia EV4 so far:
Design Philosophy
The EV4 embodies Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, blending human-centric and nature-inspired elements to create a modern, expressive appearance. Key exterior features include a low nose, long-tail silhouette, vertical headlamps, a wide stance, and the EV Tiger Face front. These design elements underscore its sporty and innovative character. The interior showcases a minimalist, high-tech design focused on occupant comfort, with features like a floating user interface, asymmetric one-spoke steering wheel, rotating armrest, and sliding table console. The sedan offers a cargo capacity of 490 litres, while the hatchback provides 435 litres.
The EV4 GT-line adds dynamic elements such as wing-shaped bumpers and triangular-motif 19-inch wheels for a futuristic, sporty look.
Powertrain and Performance
The Kia EV4 is built on Kia’s 400V Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) with two battery options: a standard 58.3 kWh battery and a long-range 81.4 kWh battery. These power a 150 kW front-mounted motor, enabling the EV4 to accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 7.4–7.7 seconds depending on the variant, with a top speed of 170 km/h for both configurations.
- Range: The sedan achieves an all-electric range (AER) of 430 km (standard battery) and 630 km (long-range battery), while the hatchback offers a range of 590 km with the long-range battery, as per WLTP standards .
- Charging: A 10–80% charge can be achieved in just 31 minutes using the 400V system. The EV4 also features an 11 kW on-board charger and supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functionality, providing flexibility to power external devices or even feed energy back to the grid .
Technology and Connectivity
The Kia EV4 stands out with its innovative convenience and connectivity features:
- Digital Key 2.0: Allows access via smartphones or Apple Watch, and can be shared with up to 15 devices .
- Regenerative Braking: The i-Pedal 3.0 system offers variable regenerative braking with memory functions for optimized efficiency and comfort .
- In-Car Entertainment: A 30-inch wide-screen display featuring YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+ streaming provides an immersive experience. Kia’s AI Assistant, voice recognition, and remote OTA updates enhance the user experience .
- Interior Comfort: Theatre Mode combines mood lighting, an optional eight-speaker Harmon/Kardon sound system, and the large display for entertainment. Rest Mode uses the front-row relaxation seats for a calming environment .
Safety Features
The EV4 incorporates advanced safety technologies and aims for high safety ratings:
- ADAS Functions: Includes advanced systems like Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, and more. A 12-inch windshield Head-Up Display enhances driver focus .
- Structural Integrity: The chassis features advanced body strengthening and safety designs to protect passengers and the battery during collisions. The roof can withstand over five times the car’s weight .
- Five-Star Safety Ratings: Kia targets top ratings from Euro NCAP, US NCAP, and the IIHS .
Production and Launch
The EV4 sedan will be produced in Korea at Kia’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, while the hatchback will be manufactured in Slovakia for the European market. The Kia EV4 sedan is set to go on sale in Korea starting March, and the European-specific hatchback will launch in the second half of the year. North American and other regional availability will follow later in the year .
Kia’s EV4 combines practical versatility, cutting-edge technology, and innovative design, furthering the brand’s mission to make electric mobility accessible and exciting for all.
