2026 Kia K4 [EU]

Kia blurs the line differentiating the C- and D-segment with the European reveal of the K4, a model boasting a dynamic look based on the company's 'Opposites United' design philosophy. The hatchback is also designed to meet the demands of modern drivers, offering plenty of interior space, premium features, and advanced technologies.

Designed with a sporty look

The model introduces an expressive new design and generous exterior dimensions, 4,440 millimetres (mm) long and 1,850 mm wide, while its spacious interior offers passengers in the rear class-leading legroom (964 mm) and plenty of headroom (973 mm). Behind the rear seats, customers can make use of 438 litres of cargo space, making the model ideal for either transporting moving boxes or weekend trips.

The design turns heads with a distinctive floating roofline that slips elegantly into the rear hatch. Key design cues include the Star Map Signature Lighting inspired by the EV9, rear hidden door handles integrated into the C-pillar, and an exclusive Sparkling Yellow exterior colour. On top of this, the Kia K4's GT-Line looks even sportier. The trim features a three-spoke steering wheel, paddle shifters, 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, gloss black mirror caps, side sills, and wheel arch mouldings.

"With the K4, we are demonstrating how our models can deliver dynamic design, innovation, and intelligent technology irrespectively from their powertrain," said Sjoerd Knipping, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Europe. "The K4 reflects our mission to make exciting mobility accessible to all by supporting customers which are not yet ready for fully electric vehicles."

A powertrain for every journey

The K4 carries forward Kia's commitment to offering customers a diverse range of propulsion options. This includes electrified powertrains to ease the transition to electric mobility. Of the five available powertrains in Europe, two are electrified, aligning with Kia's broader electrification strategy.

The powertrain offering starts with a 1.0 T-GDI petrol engine (115 PS) with a six-speed manual transmission. This engine is also available with mild-hybrid technology. Customers who opt for the mild-hybrid engine can pair it with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission instead. The 1.6 T-GDI petrol engine comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (150/180 PS). Later in 2026, the powertrain line-up will be expanded to include a full hybrid option.

"The K4 refreshes our lineup with a model that delivers in every dimension: design, space, technology, and electrified powertrains," said Pablo Martínez Masip, Vice President of Product & Marketing of Kia Europe. "We designed the K4 for customers who want to drive farther, do more, and express themselves along their journey."

Technology that elevates the everyday

The Kia K4 boasts one of the most advanced technological offerings in its class. A panoramic display integrates a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 5.3-inch climate display, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment screen. The Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system unites navigation, multimedia, and vehicle settings control into a single, intuitive interface.

Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard across all trims with a wireless phone charger available in higher trims. A Harman Kardon® premium audio system transforms the cabin into a personal concert hall. Comfort is further enhanced with heated and ventilated front seats wrapped in stylish, black bio-based artificial leather upholstery.

The Digital Key 2.0 with ultra-wideband technology allows compatible smartphones to function as virtual keys. At the same time, Kia Connect services offer a range of digital tools, such as over-the-air (OTA) updates, music streaming, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. With its AI-powered voice assistant, drivers can simply say "Hey Kia" to control various features or get information, including help with the owner's manual or local recommendations.

Driving dynamics tuned for Europe

The Kia K4 carries a dynamic DNA but goes further in comfort and refinement. Praised for its agile and engaging character, the K4 builds on Kia's strong C-segment experience and foundation by smoothing ride harshness and adding a more premium touch to every change in road surface. Extensive testing at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center (HMETC) and proving grounds across Europe allowed Kia engineers to fine-tune the chassis. This results in a drive that feels intuitive, confident, and composed. In handling, the K4 feels linear and predictable.

"The K4 holds the road confidently, driving around corners with precision," said Alexandre Papapetropoulos, Director Product & Pricing of Kia Europe. "Comfort remains a major differentiator, as impact isolation has been improved, especially noticeable over rougher surfaces."

The suspension and steering have also been developed to meet the expectations of European drivers. Springs, anti-roll bars, shock absorbers and engine mounts have been optimised ensure a more settled, balanced ride. A direct steering ratio enhances agility while cornering, and 18-inch Continental summer tyres increase stability and connection to the road. Together, these details give the Kia K4 a balanced ride that is smooth and secure while still being responsive and sporty, allowing Kia to prove again that its vehicles can match and even perform at the top of its segment.

ADAS to enhance vehicle safety

Offering a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Kia prioritises customer safety with the K4.

When the turn signal is activated, the Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) provides drivers with a real-time video feed of their blind spots on the instrument cluster. Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) uses radar sensors in the rear bumper to monitor blind spots and help prevent collisions during lane changes.

In addition to intelligently adapting the vehicle's speed, Smart Cruise Control 2 (SCC2) can, in the event of an emergency, bring the car to a stop if the driver is unresponsive. Furthermore, Highway Driving Assist 2.0 (HDA 2.0) helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, stay centred in the lane, change lanes, and adjust lateral positioning.

Moreover, when reversing out of parking spaces, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) detects vehicles approaching from behind at the left and right sides. RCCA provides audible and visual warnings and is even able to automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision. Additionally, the Surround View Monitor (SVM) employs multiple cameras positioned around the car to create a composite, 360-degree view displayed on the infotainment screen.

Finally, using front-facing camera and radar sensors, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA2) helps prevent or mitigate collisions by detecting potential hazards like other cars, pedestrians, and cyclists.

The Kia K4 is being produced at Kia Mexico (KMMX) in Pesquería, Nuevo León, Kia's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Latin America.