3 min read
Kia has officially introduced the EV4, a new electric vehicle available in both sedan and hatchback versions. The announcement was made at Kia’s 2025 EV Day event in Spain, where the company also showcased the PV5 electric passenger and cargo van, along with the urban-focused EV2 small SUV concept.
First unveiled as a concept in 2023, the EV4 has now been transformed into a production-ready vehicle. It comes in two variations:
- Sedan-style EV4: Features a unique extended rear design resembling a conventional four-door sedan.
- Sporty Hatchback EV4: Designed primarily for the European market, featuring a sleek five-door design.
Performance and Battery Range
The EV4 is not Kia’s most powerful electric vehicle, but it still delivers solid performance. It features a power output of 150 kW and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. When it comes to battery options, Kia offers two variants: an 81.4 kWh battery that provides an impressive range of up to 630 km (391 miles) per charge and a smaller 58.3 kWh battery capable of covering up to 430 km (267 miles).
Although the EV4 utilizes a 400-volt version of Kia’s E-GMP platform charging at a slower rate compared to its 800-volt counterparts it can still charge from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes, ensuring a convenient and efficient recharging experience.
Advanced Tech Features
The EV4 is packed with Kia’s latest technology, including:
- 30-inch widescreen display with three integrated screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment.
- Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) software for a seamless driving experience.
- Built-in entertainment options like YouTube, Netflix, and gaming via an app store.
- Voice-activated AI assistant and digital key access through Apple Watch.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, enables users to power home electronics.
- Smart Cruise Control 2, offers advanced driver assistance and lane-keeping capabilities.
EV2 Concept: Kia’s Most Affordable EV Yet
Alongside the EV4, Kia teased the EV2, which is expected to be an even more affordable electric option. This mini-SUV will feature:
- Configurable seating, allowing passengers to adjust space between lounging and cargo.
- Detachable portable speakers are ideal for outdoor activities like tailgating.
- A compact design, making it Kia’s smallest EV to date.
Production and Market Availability
The production of the EV4 sedan will begin in Korea, with its official debut scheduled for mid-March. Meanwhile, the EV4 hatchback is set to be produced in Slovakia, with a planned launch in Europe in late 2024. For the North American market, production will commence later in 2024, with an expected release in 2025. Additionally, Kia’s smaller EV2 is scheduled for a 2026 launch in Europe and other regions, though its availability in the U.S. has yet to be confirmed.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Kia’s President, Ho Sung Song, revealed that the EV4 will start at €37,000 ($38,500). The company aims to produce 160,000 units initially, with 80,000 designated for the North American market.
The EV4 is positioned as an entry-level alternative to Tesla’s Model 3 in the U.S. mass market. As automakers reassess their EV strategies amid shifting government policies, Kia’s EV4 could fill a growing demand for affordable electric cars, especially as Volkswagen rethinks its U.S. EV lineup.
With an impressive range, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the Kia EV4 is set to be a strong contender in the budget-friendly EV segment. Whether it can compete with established players like Tesla remains to be seen, but it certainly adds an attractive option for consumers looking for an affordable yet high-tech electric vehicle.
