- The K4 continues Kia’s aggressive exterior styling for its sedans
- Pricing starts at $23,165 | Price it your way
- On sale now | See Kia K4 models for sale near you
Kia knows a good thing when it sees it, and even more so when it creates it. The all-new Kia K4 borrows its aggressive exterior looks from its larger midsize sibling, the K5, which was a hit when it debuted a few years ago.
This compact sedan offers the best of all worlds for those looking for style, space, and technology on a budget. The Kia K4 starts at just over $23,000 for the LX trim and tops out at just under $30,000 for the GT-Line Turbo, which combines flair and performance.
The K4 line is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine putting out 147 horsepower, except for the aforementioned GT-Line Turbo. That model gets a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder powertrain putting out 190 hp, making it drive and feel dramatically different than its siblings. All models are front-wheel drive.
While its athletic and progressive exterior styling is a delight, the K4 is equally impressive when you move into the cabin. Let’s see what the Kia K4 offers inside.
Passenger Room and Comfort
The K4 technically carries five people, and four adults will fit comfortably. If you add a fifth, make sure everyone back there likes one another; it is a compact sedan, after all. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and rear seat passengers will get to say the same.
As a replacement for Forte, one area of the K4 that Kia’s engineers made sure to improve was space in the back seat. With 38 inches of rear leg room, it’s 3 inches more than the Forte. That figure matches that of the Elantra, which occupies the same spot in Hyundai’s lineup.
By the way, that leg room space also leads the segment, as does the 37.3 inches of head room in the back seat. In short, the K4 boasts a comfortable space for front and rear passengers alike.
Features and Tech
The K4 also provides in abundance what so many buyers in this segment demand: technology. That tech is well incorporated into the cabin’s aesthetic, starting with the massive one-piece glass dashboard that ties the driver’s gauge cluster and the infotainment touchscreen — both 12.3 inches. Those two are separated by the climate control screen, creating a seamless, tech-forward look that makes the K4 feel like a more expensive vehicle.
Kia liberally borrows well-received technology from other vehicles in its portfolio. The available Connected Car Navigation Cockpit that made its debut in the all-electric EV9 lends that futuristic feel to the K4’s interior while providing useful features. However, it also smartly offers the basics of desired tech such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across the K4 family.
In its pricier trims, you can get Kia Connect with its available voice assistant. Utter “Hey Kia,” and you can reset the interior temperature, change from satellite radio to a podcast, and more. The Digital Key 2.0 allows select smartphones to act as a virtual key to unlock or lock the vehicle, and even drive. The new model allows for over-the-air updates.
Although a small car, the K4 offers big protection for occupants and pedestrians. The K4 has the latest Kia ADAS suite, including standard Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Forward Collision Avoidance is also standard. Drivers are warned with haptic steering wheel alerts to potential situations. Move up in the trim portfolio, and even more technologies are available, including a Kia’s Blind-Spot View Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and a Harman Kardon audio system.
Materials and Design
While it can be considered an entry-level vehicle, the K4’s materials are a step above. The SynTex and cloth-covered seats offer a premium look while providing durability and affordability.
Of course, moving up to a more expensive trim level does allow for a shift to leather seats, including heated and ventilated front seats. The optional ultra-wide sunroof makes the interior feel brighter and more airy.
The K4 ensures the driver gets the support and special touches needed to make them feel like the car is a cut above the competition, with an adaptable center console. It offers adjustable cup holders to ensure you can bring the latest oversized travel mug with you and still easily make room for your other necessities.
Cargo Room and Flexibility
The K4 provides a spacious trunk at 14.6 cubic feet. Also, with the pull of two simple levers in the trunk, the 60/40 split rear seat folds down to allow you to carry longer and larger objects
Kia gives you plenty of ways to access that space as well. There is a small lever on the floor next to the driver’s seat that will release the trunk lid, plus a button on the lid itself as well as the key fob. However, there is also the standard smart trunk function. Just stand behind the vehicle with the key on your person, and the trunk lid automatically opens. This feature is very handy when one’s hands are full.
Build and price your version of the 2025 Kia K4 to see this week’s Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price, or check out Kia K4 models for sale near you.
