2026 Kia EV4 Launches to Compete with Tesla Model 3 and VW ID.3 | Carscoops

      Kia has introduced the $35k/£31k EV4 sedan and hatchback during its Kia Day event.

      The launch models are equipped with a 201 hp motor and offer battery options of either 58.3 kWh or 81.4 kWh.

      These electric vehicles were revealed alongside the smaller EV2 concept and the PV5 vans.

      Despite a recent refresh, Model 3 sales continued to decline in 2024. Today, Kia revealed a product that is likely to exacerbate Tesla’s challenges. The EV4 will be available later this year for approximately $35k / £31k.

      This week, at the Kia Day event in Spain, the Korean automaker showcased its new compact electric vehicle, alongside the compact EV2 SUV concept and the PV5 van. While Kia had earlier released exterior images of the EV4, this event provided the first detailed insights into its features.

      Interestingly, the EV4 will come in both fastback sedan and hatchback styles, both built on the same 2,820 mm (111 inches) wheelbase. While Europe will receive both styles, only the sedan will be available in the United States.

      **One Motor, One Power Level**

      The powertrain specifications mirror those of the EV3 introduced last year, utilizing a cost-effective 400-volt electrical system, unlike the 800-volt system found in the EV6 and EV9. It features a single motor driving the front wheels, producing 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW). Dual-motor, all-wheel drive and GT variants are planned for the future.

      Opting for the smaller 58.3 kWh battery allows for quicker acceleration, reducing the time to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) to 7.4 seconds for both the sedan and hatch, although the sedan boasts a range of 267 miles (430 km) on a charge compared to the hatch’s 255 miles (410 km).

      **Nearly 400 Miles of Range**

      With the larger 81.4 kWh battery, while the extra weight increases the time to reach 62 mph by 0.3 seconds, the improved range is significant. The hatch can cover 367 miles (590 km) before needing a charge, while the sedan can go up to 391 miles (630 km). These figures relate to vehicles fitted with 17-inch wheels; increasing the wheel size will decrease the range.

      The charging time difference between the two batteries is minimal: 29 minutes for the smaller battery and 31 minutes for the larger. However, both charging times are considerably longer than the sub-20-minute charging experience currently enjoyed by EV6 drivers.

      **Watch Netflix or Sing Karaoke**

      Both the sedan and hatch versions of the EV4 feature a 30-inch, triple-display dashboard, allowing passengers to stream YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+, play games, and even sing karaoke. The identical wheelbases ensure comparable rear passenger space, but the sedan’s extra 300 mm (11.8 inches) in body length translates to a larger cargo capacity, offering 490 liters (17.3 cu-ft) compared to the hatchback’s 435 liters (15.4 cu-ft).

      The EV4 is set to go on sale in Korea in March, with the Korean-built sedan and Slovakian-manufactured hatch expected to arrive in European dealerships in the latter half of the year. The sedan, produced in the USA, will be available in America by late 2025.