► Kia’s first electric saloon unveiled in full
► Hatchback version also available
► Headline range figure of almost 400 miles
Kia has unveiled its EV4 hatchback and saloon models with a headline 391-mile range from the larger battery versions. It marks the South Korean manufacturer’s first foray into the electrified saloon and hatchback market and represents an unusual step away from the trend of electric SUVs.
But let’s cut to the chase, because while the hatchback enjoys a more conventional design the saloon is sporting a rear end for the ages. From some angles, it’s the sort of protrusion that would make a certain member of the Kardashian family blush – yet there’s clearly strong aero benefits to such an eye-catching look.
The EV4 Saloon has the legs on its Hatchback counterpart when it comes to range and luggage space, so there’s function to go along with the form. How does the rest of the car fare on paper? Keep reading to find out.
Kia EV4: 30-inches of combined screens
In the battle of who can fit the biggest interior screen, Kia has gone on the offensive and delivered a combined screen size of 30 inches. Sounds huge on paper, whereas in reality a 12.3-inch infotainment display and digital dashboard plus a further 5.3-inch unit is much more palatable.
Kia’s smartphone-based Digital Key 2.0 is also available and allows up to 15 devices, including an Apple Watch, to unlock your car. Meanwhile, over-the-air updates are now possible, while Vehicle Smart TV allows users to watch streaming services such as YouTube, Netflix and Disney+ in 21:9 ratio using the primary central screen.
It’s not all entertainment, however, as the EV4 also has a Rest Mode that utilises the front relaxation seats and mood lamp to create what Kia calls a ‘comforting atmosphere’. Equally, there’s also a Theatre Mode that does the opposite and employs the optional eight-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system for the full movie-goer experience.
As with the vast majority of new cars, semi-autonomous safety kit is in abundance with Highway Driving Assist, Lane Following Assist, Remote Parking Assist, Direct Grip Direction System (senses contact between the steering wheel and the driver’s hands to tell if they have adequate control of the vehicle) and a 12-inch windshield head-up display also included.
Kia EV4: Almost 400 miles of range
Both the hatchback and saloon variants of the EV4 will be available with a two different battery options. Namely an entry-level 58.3kWh version and a larger 81.4kWh long range model – both of which will come with the same 150kW motor powering the front wheels. A modest 161bhp power output means 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds (7.7 in the long-range variant) and a max-speed of 170km/h.
However, what stands out is the impressive 367- and 391-mile range on the hatchback and saloon long-range models respectively. Meanwhile, a DC fast charge from 10-80% should be achievable in around 30 minutes, while an 11kW AC charge (10-100%) takes between 5hrs 20 mins and 7hrs 15 minds depending on the battery size.
Kia EV4: UK specs and pricing
Kia is yet to announce the UK pricing and specs for the EV4, but expect a top-level GT Line model and a cheaper Air variant when orders open later in 2025.