Kia Abruptly Withdraws Its Competitor to the Tesla Model 3 Just Before US Debut | Carscoops

      A highly anticipated electric sedan, viewed as a competitor to the Model 3, will not be available in US showrooms any time soon as changing market dynamics affect Kia’s strategy.

      The EV4 sedan was initially expected to arrive in the US in early 2026, with options for 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh battery packs confirmed by Kia. Pricing was estimated to start at around the low $30,000s.

      The Kia EV4 made its debut at the New York International Auto Show in April, positioned as Kia’s most direct challenge to the Tesla Model 3. It appeared ready to make waves in the affordable EV market, but that progress has faltered before it even reached dealerships.

      According to the Korean automaker, the EV4’s launch in the United States has been postponed “until further notice,” leaving potential buyers of budget-friendly EVs with fewer choices in an increasingly competitive landscape.

      Kia designed both sedan and hatchback variants of the EV4 for different markets, with only the sedan intended for the US, while Europe and other areas would receive both versions.

      What once appeared to be a direct rollout has encountered new market challenges. The American automotive scene has shifted significantly since the EV4's unveiling in April, and even more so from when Kia initially planned its export strategy.

      A Kia representative stated, “Kia’s full range of vehicles offers meaningful value and inspiring performance to customers. However, as market conditions for EVs have changed, the release of the upcoming EV4 electric sedan will be delayed until further notice.”

      Originally, the EV4 sedan was set to hit local dealerships in the first quarter of 2026. Although Kia did not announce local pricing, the absence of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit may have significantly impacted its viability.

      Without this incentive, the EV4 would likely struggle to compete against more established rivals.

      Similar to other markets, the version of the American-spec EV4, built on Kia’s E-GMP platform, would have featured a 58.3 kWh battery and a 201 hp motor driving the front wheels, promising an approximate range of 235 miles (around 378 kilometers).

      Above this model were the Wind and GT-Line variants, both equipped with an 81.4 kWh battery capable of delivering up to 330 miles (531 km) per charge. These specifications positioned the EV4 within Tesla’s competitive sphere, at least until the current halt in plans.