Kia America has officially launched the all-new K4, a fully redesigned compact sedan aimed at the North American market. As the successor to the Forte, the K4 marks a bold transformation in design, technology, and driving dynamics. Under Kia’s streamlined sedan naming strategy, the model adopts the K4 badge, bringing a fresh identity to the brand’s compact sedan lineup.
During a test drive event for Asian media at the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica on February 4, Kia showcased the top-tier GT-Line Turbo trim. Driving through urban streets and coastal highways for approximately 130 miles, the new K4 demonstrated its enhanced performance, comfort, and modern styling.
Compared to its predecessor, the K4 features a more sophisticated and aggressive design. Built on Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, the vehicle boasts a wider and more elongated body with futuristic and dynamic styling. The distinctive rear window cut and fastback-inspired silhouette add a sporty touch, while the black trim extending from the trunk to the rear windshield emphasizes its sleek and aerodynamic profile.
The vertically stacked LED headlights and taillights take inspiration from Kia’s flagship EV9, incorporating a star-map lighting pattern that wraps around the edges of the vehicle, redefining the brand’s signature “Tiger Face” with a bold and modern look.
Inside, the K4 surpasses expectations for a compact sedan, offering one of the largest cabins in its segment. With a length of 185.3 inches and a width of 72.8 inches, the K4 provides generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The expanded trunk space easily accommodates golf bags and travel luggage, with foldable rear seats for added flexibility. A hatchback variant, expected to launch in the future, will offer even more cargo capacity.
The driver-focused cockpit integrates a seamless 12.3-inch infotainment display, a digital instrument cluster, and a 5.0-inch climate control screen, emphasizing a sleek and minimalist design. However, depending on the driver’s height and seating position, some dashboard elements may be partially obscured by the steering wheel.
Despite being a compact sedan, the K4 impresses with its extensive suite of convenience and safety features. Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto come standard across all trims. The GT-Line Turbo model further enhances the driving experience with a blind-spot camera, a 360-degree surround-view monitor, and a head-up display. Smart cruise control, AI-based voice assistance, and remote garage door control via MyQ add to its advanced technological offerings. Heated and ventilated front seats, memory seat settings, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system contribute to a refined cabin experience.
On the road, the K4 delivers a driving experience that matches its sporty aesthetic. The GT-Line Turbo trim, equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Paddle shifters and a weighted sport pedal enhance the sense of control, while the dedicated Sport Mode button on the steering wheel sharpens throttle response and steering precision. The K4 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just over 7 seconds, demonstrating competitive performance within its class.
Wind noise is well-managed at moderate speeds, though road noise becomes more noticeable at higher speeds. The GT-Line model features a multi-link rear suspension for improved handling, but some drivers may find the ride firmer than expected. However, the turbocharged engine’s responsive acceleration and optimized RPM management contribute to a confident and engaging driving experience.
Kia has equipped the K4 with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies, including Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), ensuring enhanced safety on the road.
The K4 is available in five trims, starting with the base LX model at an attractive price of $21,990. Except for the GT-Line Turbo, all trims come with a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter engine. The LX trim delivers an impressive fuel economy of 30 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway, making it a practical choice for efficiency-conscious buyers.
Designed and sold exclusively for the North American market, the K4 is set to compete with the Hyundai Elantra, Toyota Corolla, and Honda Civic. With its segment-leading features, expanded dimensions, and sporty design, the K4 injects fresh energy into the compact sedan market, challenging the dominance of its rivals and redefining expectations for internal combustion sedans in an era increasingly focused on electrification.
BY HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]
