Kia has delayed plans to launch the all-electric EV4 sedan in the U.S., with uncertain EV demand, no federal tax credits, and higher import tariffs likely influencing this decision.
When the company unveiled the car to customers at auto shows, and to the media, many expressed that the hatchback would be a good option for the American market where sedans are a declining segment.
A few days ago, we checked out the Kia EV4 Hatchback in Zurich, and here’s what we found in the Euro-spec model.
Design
The Kia EV4 hatchback uses sharp surfacing and a low nose that follows the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design language. Vertically-arranged LED headlamps sit on the front corners, and the bumper integrates Active Air Flaps that open for cooling and close to improve airflow. A smooth hood and clean fenders give the front a streamlined shape.
The profile is defined by a sloping roofline, flush door handles, and gloss black lower trim that visually reduces mass. Aero-focused wheels are housed within squared-off arches. The rear features a tall light signature that wraps around the corners and connects through a horizontal light bar.
A roof spoiler, a heavily raked rear glass area, and a clipped tailgate complete the hatchback form. Kia covers 82 percent of the EV4’s underside with an aerodynamic panel, which contributes to a 0.27 drag coefficient.
Interior
The EV4 uses a three-screen layout that includes a 12.3-inch driver display, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 5.3-inch climate touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Kia’s ccNC interface are standard.
A Kia AI Assistant, activated by saying “Hey Kia,” supports natural language commands for navigation, feature control, travel suggestions, and entertainment. The cabin includes heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic air conditioning, and a six-speaker audio system.
GT-Line S models add front relaxation seats, which recline nearly flat for breaks during charging. Rest mode turns off displays and dims lighting, while Theatre mode uses the 12.3-inch display for apps such as Netflix and YouTube and sets the seats to a preset viewing posture. Storage includes a center console, an adjustable cargo floor, and a 60:40 rear seat split.
Experience in the Kia EV4
I spent some time inside the Kia EV4 hatchback, which is clearly designed in Europe, for Europe. The flush-style door handles feel fine, though not the most satisfying to use. Sitting lower than the EV5 or EV9, the EV4 instantly feels sportier.
Once inside, the front seats impressed me with their comfort and support. The back and under-thigh support are excellent, and the headrests are nicely cushioned. At six feet tall, I had just enough headroom despite the lower roofline.
The steering adjusts for both reach and rake, and I quickly found a natural driving position. Visibility is solid with large mirrors and generous glass areas, and the cabin feels airy for a compact hatchback.
The center console layout is thoughtful, with proper physical knobs for volume and climate functions, something I always appreciate. Below that is a wireless charger, USB-C ports, and adjustable cupholders, all neatly arranged in a two-tier console that makes the space feel organized.
In the rear, the experience remains good but tighter. With the front seat set to my height, my knees just clear the backrest. The floor is flat, and under-thigh support is strong, though my knees sit slightly raised because of the battery pack. Headroom is acceptable, and the wide windows prevent the cabin from feeling closed in.
Rear passengers get AC vents, USB ports on the seatbacks, and heated outboard seats. The armrest folds down with cupholders, and while three adults would be a squeeze, it’s doable for short trips.
Specifications
The EV4 offers two battery options. The 58.3 kWh pack delivers an estimated 273 miles of range, while the 81.4 kWh long-range pack increases that to 388 miles. GT-Line and GT-Line S trims use only the 81.4 kWh pack, with an estimated 362-mile range.
A single front-mounted motor powers all variants, producing 150 kW (201 hp) and 283 Nm (208.7 lb-ft.) torque, driving the front wheels. The EV4 accelerates from 0-62 mph in about 7.5 seconds and reaches a 105 mph top speed.
The 400V architecture supports 350 kW DC fast charging. A 10-80 percent charge takes about 29 minutes with the standard battery and 31 minutes with the long-range pack. An 11 kW AC charger brings the battery from empty to full in 5 hours 20 minutes or 7 hours 15 minutes for long-range models.
Pricing
In the UK market, the EV4 Hatchback starts with the Air 58.3 kWh at £34,695 (about USD 45,800). The GT-Line, which is featured in this article, is offered only with the 81.4 kWh pack, and is priced at £39,395 (about USD 52,000). The range-topping GT-Line S comes in at £43,895 (about USD 57,950).
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
