2025 Kia K4: A New Era in Compact Sedans
The 2025 Kia K4 is a significant reinvention of Kia’s entry-level sedan, standing as the successor to the Kia Forte. This model steps in as the most affordable vehicle in Kia’s lineup, especially after the discontinuation of the subcompact Rio in 2023.
K4 Production and Release
Kia is gearing up to begin production of the K4 models in Mexico. The K4 is expected to hit the market in the third quarter, starting with a sporty sedan variant. However, a hatchback version was previewed at the 2024 New York Auto Show, with expectations of it joining the lineup, likely in the 2026 model year. The strategy focuses on launching the sedan first, given its popularity globally, as noted by Kia’s senior product strategy manager, Young Kim.
The K4 is the Biggest in its Class
One of the standout features of the K4 is its size; it is larger than the outgoing Forte and claims the title of the biggest sedan in its class. It utilizes the K3 platform and introduces multilink suspension for higher trim levels. Additionally, the spacious design ensures ample headroom and legroom in the rear seat.
The K4 features a striking design characterized by vertical headlights and a fastback roofline. It offers five trim levels: LX, LXS, GT-Line, GT-Line Turbo, and a new EX trim with an elegant slate green interior. Other interior color options include a two-tone black and white, medium gray, and a red/black combination reminiscent of the Kia K5.
Buyers can choose from eight exterior colors and five wheel options, including 16-inch, 17-inch, and two distinctive 18-inch wheels, with a glossy black option available for the GT-Line Turbo.
Powertrains of the K4
The K4 retains the powertrains from the Forte. The base engine option is a 2.0-liter Atkinson four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, yielding 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Although EPA fuel economy ratings are not yet available, expectations indicate that it will mirror the performance of the Forte, despite the K4’s larger size; the Forte delivered 30 mpg in the city and 41 on the highway.
For those seeking enhanced performance, a 1.6-liter turbo-four engine is available, providing 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque (a decrease from the Forte’s 201 lb-ft). This option comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the manual transmission from the Forte is not available for the K4.
Inside the 2025 Kia K4
The cabin of the K4 showcases modern advancements, featuring a 12.3-inch driver display and a center infotainment screen of the same size. Traditionally, entry-level vehicles utilized smaller screens, but the K4 embraces this competitive landscape with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
A remarkable addition is the AI voice assistant unique to the K4. This advanced feature allows users to employ natural language queries, enhancing usability by remembering context for follow-up questions and offering localized trip information, alongside a comprehensive owner’s manual.
The innovative rotatable cup holders are adapted from the Kia EV9 three-row electric SUV, capable of securely holding a 32-ounce beverage or retracting for additional storage space for personal items. Furthermore, the K4 includes four USB outlets and an available wireless charger.
Pricing details will be revealed closer to the launch date, with expectations that the K4 will start above the Forte’s base price of $21,145. Kia continues to uphold its reputation for offering superior features and value at a competitive price point.
