Kia on Wednesday revealed the 2025 K4 compact sedan at the New York Auto Show 2024.
The beautiful four-door is expected to replace Kia’s current option in the segment, the Forte, when it hits showrooms in the second half of the year. Pricing information will be released closer to the on-sale date.
K4 is a new name for the US market, but was previously used on a Kia compact sedan sold exclusively in China. The current Forte is sold outside the U.S. as the K3, but Kia recently released a separate compact sedan called the K3 aimed at developing markets, so a new name was needed for the Forte’s replacement.
At 185.4 inches long, the K4 is nearly three inches longer than the Forte. This resulted in extra space in the cabin, as well as a decent 14.6 cubic feet of trunk space.
2025Kia K4
At the front of the cabin, the dashboard sports a floating dashboard measuring nearly 30 inches and integrating digital screens for the gauge cluster and infotainment center. The infotainment system supports over-the-air updates, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard. Premium touches like a Harman Kardon audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, a sunroof and voice assistant will be available.
Various electronic driver assistance features will also be offered, either as standard or available. The list includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, front and rear cross traffic warning, blind sport warning, active lane control, surround camera and more.
Although Kia plans more than a dozen EVs by 2027, the K4 will not be powered by batteries. Kia has confirmed two gasoline options: a standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 hp and an available 1.6-liter turbo-4 with 190 hp. The naturally aspirated engine comes with CVT while the turbocharged engine comes with an 8-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on both engines.
For EV fans, Kia plans an EV4 hatchback in the same segment as K4. The automaker also showed EV5 electric compact crossoverbut did not confirm this model for the USA
