Kia used this week New York Auto Show 2024 to present the new K4 compact sedanwhich will replace the Forte when it hits showrooms in the second half of the year as a 2025 model.
During the introduction, Kia presented a video that showed a hatchback version of the K4, a body style that Kia discontinued on the Forte in 2018.
The video is below and shows the hatch at the 10:15 mark, along with some comments from design chief Karim Habib.
Engine1 I’ve learned that Kia plans to sell both body styles in the US. Habib referred to the hatch as the five-door K4, a name that could lead to production. The previous Forte hatch was known as the Forte5.
The hatch will likely feature the same specifications as the sedan, although likely with more storage space. The sedan measures 185.4 inches long, making it almost three inches longer than the Forte. Hatchback versions of the same vehicle tend to be shorter.
Kia has confirmed two powertrain options for the sedan, both gas units. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 147 hp, while a 1.6-liter turbo-4 with 190 hp will be available. 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.
Kia will also offer an electric hatchback similar in size to the K4 hatch. It will be called EV4, and a concept of the same name which was shown last year gives design tips.