Kia EV 4: The new electric Korean with long range

New Models Kia EV 4: Strong in Range, Mediocre in Charging

2025-09-27 By Andreas Wehner | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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In the segment of a VW ID 3 or Cupra Born, you can also drive a Korean in the future. The Kia EV 4 is a straightforward companion with plenty of space and a very decent range.

The Kia EV4 is available to order starting at $40,200.(Image: Wehner - VCG) — The Kia EV4 is available to order starting at $40,200.
(Image: Wehner - VCG)

Kia is entering the fully electric compact class with the EV 4. The Korean automaker is targeting the segment of a VW ID 3 or Cupra Born. Kia offers the electric vehicle as a five-door hatchback model and as a sedan called "Fastback."

The Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) of the Hyundai Group serves as the foundation, albeit with a 400-volt architecture instead of the 800-volt technology used in the larger models.

High Range, Average Charging Performance

This also means: the charging speed is okay but not particularly exciting. It takes the EV 4 about 30 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent at a fast charger, for both available battery variants. Choices include a 58-kWh battery and a larger 81-kWh battery. The smaller one charges at a maximum of 101 kW, while the larger one achieves a charging capacity of 128 kW. According to WLTP, the EV 4's range is between 440 and—for its segment, quite impressive—388 miles, depending on the battery version and configuration.

The drive is the same for all versions: an electric motor with 150 kW and 283 Nm of torque powers the front wheels. This is quite a lot compared to the combustion engine world and more than sufficient for all driving situations. However, the left lane on the highway isn’t its domain, as the car is limited to 106 mph.

Gallery

Kia brings fresh energy to the electric compact segment.(Image: Wehner - VCG)

It is likely to resonate less with European customers.(Image: Wehner - VCG)

With the EV4, there is a new competitor for VW ID 3 & Co.(Image: Wehner - VCG)

There is also a sedan called Fastback.(Image: Wehner - VCG)

Gallery with 13 images

Chassis and steering leave little room for criticism. The EV 4 proves to be quite forgiving and comfortable in everyday tests. This is complemented by the comfortable seats, which are adapted to the body dimensions and seating habits of European drivers.

Generous Space

The interior space of the tested hatchback model is also comfortable. Headroom and legroom are very generously sized, even in the back seat. The trunk holds 115 gallons (US) according to the standard, or 374 gallons (US) with the second row folded down.

In terms of interior design and operation, the EV 4 follows the well-known Kia electric models. Those who, for example, have already driven a EV 3 will quickly feel at home. The dashboard features the panoramic display now standard in Kia vehicles, consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an additional 5.3-inch screen in between for controlling the air conditioning and seat heating.

However, it is positioned somewhat awkwardly at an angle behind the steering wheel, making it difficult to see from the driver's seat. And if the passenger wants to use the touchscreen, they come uncomfortably close to the steering wheel. However, there are also switches for controlling the air conditioning located in the center below the infotainment display.

AI Voice Control Costs Extra

If desired, the air conditioning can also be controlled via voice command. It works intuitively, understanding naturally spoken sentences, and can otherwise control both the infotainment system and other vehicle functions such as the windows or sunroof.

The voice control has, for the first time in a Kia, received AI support and, according to the manufacturer, continuously improves speech recognition and response accuracy. However, after a free first year, this comes at an additional cost and must be purchased through the "Kia Connect Store." There, an entertainment offering with three packages is also available: the basic package "Entertainment Standard" includes music streaming and YouTube access, "Entertainment Plus" adds LG WebOS apps including Netflix and games, and those who want a hotspot can opt for "Entertainment Plus WiFi."

Kia Connect also delivers real-time information to the smartphone via the app and offers the ability to control certain functions remotely. A digital key is also available, depending on the equipment level.

Base Price Under $42,800

The price list starts at $40,200 for the EV 4 Air with the standard battery. The version with the larger battery costs from $46,300, and the Fastback model is only available with the larger battery, starting at $50,400.

The hatchback version of the EV 4 has been specifically developed by the Korean automaker for Europe and is also exclusively produced here. The model will be manufactured alongside the X-Ceed and the Sportage at the plant in Zilina, Slovakia.

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According to those responsible, it will also account for the vast majority of sales in Germany. Only a very small portion—according to their estimation—is likely to opt for the sedan.

By the way, if you're not ready to drive electric yet but are looking for a compact car, Kia has something new to look forward to. The Ceed will have a successor in 2026 with the K 4.