2026 Kia EV4 sedan & hatchback unveiled - up to 630km range
The 2026 Kia EV4 is set to shake up the electric vehicle (EV) market with a compelling mix of affordability, range, and modern technology. As sedans struggle to maintain popularity, Kia is betting that a well-priced, long-range EV sedan can attract buyers who want something other than a crossover. Unveiled at Kia’s 2025 EV Day in Barcelona, the EV4 will serve as the brand’s entry-level EV sedan, offering both a traditional sedan and a hatchback variant in select markets.
Under the hood, the EV4 is built on Kia’s E-GMP platform and comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard. Buyers can choose between two battery options—a 58.3 kWh pack or a larger 81.4 kWh pack, both delivering 201 horsepower. Acceleration is modest, with a 0-100 kmph time between 7.4 and 7.7 seconds, depending on the battery. While it’s not a high-performance EV, its focus is on efficiency, affordability, and practicality rather than outright speed.
One of the EV4’s standout features is its exceptional range, thanks to a low drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd. The sedan version can travel up to 630kms (WLTP) with the larger battery, while the hatchback version achieves slightly lower figures due to its shape. Charging is quick enough for daily use, with 400V architecture allowing a 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. While it doesn’t match the 800V fast-charging speeds of the Kia EV6, the EV4 prioritizes cost savings to remain competitively priced.
The EV4’s design language is bold and modern, following Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy. The sedan version sports a sharp, elongated rear, while the hatchback is slightly taller with a more practical shape. A GT-Line trim adds aggressive styling elements, but the highly anticipated GT performance model has yet to be confirmed. With matte color options, sleek LED lighting, and a wide stance, the EV4 is positioned as one of the more stylish budget-friendly EVs on the market.
Inside, the EV4 combines minimalism with high-tech features. The dashboard houses two 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation, plus a 5.3-inch display for climate controls, giving drivers access to 30 inches of digital real estate. Kia has also included physical buttons for key functions, which many drivers still prefer over touchscreens. Other highlights include a heads-up display (HUD), multiple USB ports, a sliding center console, and an optional Harman Kardon stereo system. An innovative “Theater Mode” even allows for streaming services like YouTube and Disney+, turning the EV4 into a mobile entertainment hub.
Kia has also packed the EV4 with advanced safety and driver assistance features. The Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) system helps with lane-centering and adaptive cruise control, while Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Lane Following Assist 2, and Remote Parking Assistprovide extra peace of mind. The EV4 also supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates, vehicle-to-load (V2L) power sharing, and Digital Key 2.0, which now works with Apple Watch. Kia aims for top safety ratings globally, ensuring that this EV is both high-tech and secure.
Kia has tuned the EV4 for a comfortable yet responsive ride, using MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. The suspension also features SFD3 adaptive valves, which adjust to road conditions in real-time to improve comfort. Whether navigating city streets or long highway drives, the EV4 is designed to offer a smooth and refined driving experience, making it a strong contender in the affordable EV segment.
Set to launch in Korea in March 2025 and Europe later that year, while pricing is still unconfirmed, the European model is expected to start around $35,000 and $40,000 (~MYR 166,000 – MYR 190,000). With its strong range, modern design, and competitive pricing, the Kia EV4 could become a popular choice for those looking for an affordable, long-range electric sedan that doesn’t compromise on features.
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