Kia EV4 Hatchback: A Smart, Practical, and Efficient Electric Hatch
The Kia EV4 Hatchback is the latest addition to Kia’s growing electric vehicle lineup, offering a practical alternative to sedans and crossovers. Built on the E-GMP platform, it prioritizes efficiency, interior technology, and affordability, making it a compelling choice for European drivers. With an 81 kWh battery and an estimated range of 550 km (342 mi), it aims to be one of the more efficient EVs in its class.
Kia EV4 Hatchback Price and Availability
Pricing for the Kia EV4 Hatchback starts at $46,600 (€43,000), aligning with rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and VW ID.3. Manufactured in South Korea and set for a 2025 launch, this EV will be available exclusively in European markets.
Battery and Range: Efficient and Long-Lasting
The EV4 Hatchback comes with an 81 kWh battery pack that provides a 550 km (342 mi) WLTP range. A smaller 58.3 kWh battery will also be available, offering a more budget-friendly option with a 410 km (255 mi) range.
- Battery Capacity: 81 kWh (Long Range) / 58.3 kWh (Standard)
- Range: 550 km (342 mi) / 410 km (255 mi)
- Charging Speed: 400V system with 135 kW DC fast charging
- Charge Time (10-80%): 31 minutes
Performance and Driving Experience
Powered by a 204 hp (150 kW) motor, the Kia EV4 Hatchback delivers front-wheel drive performance, reaching 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.7 seconds. While not designed for high performance, it provides a balance of efficiency and drivability, making it ideal for city commuting and highway cruising.
- Power Output: 204 hp (150 kW)
- Torque: Optimized for urban and highway driving
- Max Speed: 170 km/h (106 mph)
- Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Charging and Efficiency
The EV4 Hatchback operates on a 400V charging architecture, supporting 135 kW DC fast charging. While not as fast as Kia’s 800V EV6 platform, it allows for 10-80% charging in just 31 minutes, making it a practical choice for daily users.
- Charging System: 400V
- DC Fast Charging Speed: 135 kW
- 10-80% Charge Time: 31 minutes
Interior and Technology: A Tech-Forward Cabin
The Kia EV4 Hatchback’s cabin mirrors the tech-loaded setup of the EV3, featuring a 30-inch triple-screen display. This includes 12.3-inch digital gauges, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 5.3-inch climate control panel. Kia’s new ChatGPT-enhanced voice assistant allows for conversational commands, while OTA software updates ensure long-term improvements.
- Main Display: 30-inch triple screen (12.3" digital dash, 12.3" infotainment, 5.3" climate control)
- Voice Assistant: ChatGPT-enhanced
- Updates: Over-the-Air (OTA) capability
- Streaming Services: Netflix and YouTube available while parked
Comfort and Practicality: Built for Everyday Driving
The EV4 Hatchback is designed with driver comfort in mind, featuring reclining “relaxation” front seats with leg rests, ambient lighting, and a sliding center console. At 4.4 meters (14.4 feet) long, it compares to a Ford Focus in size, offering reasonable interior space. Cargo capacity sits at 435 liters (15.3 cu-ft), which, while slightly smaller than the sedan’s 490 liters, provides better access thanks to the hatchback design.
- Length: 4.4 meters (14.4 feet)
- Seating: 5-passenger capacity
- Trunk Space: 435 liters (15.3 cu-ft)
- Comfort Features: Reclining seats, ambient lighting, sliding console
Pros and Cons: Is the Kia EV4 Hatchback Worth It?
Pros:
- Competitive 550 km (342 mi) range with efficient battery options
- Spacious tech-packed interior with a premium triple-screen display
- Fast 135 kW DC charging with 10-80% in 31 minutes
- Comfortable ride with i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability for external device charging
- Comes with Kia’s 7-year warranty
Cons:
- Not available in the U.S. (Europe-only release)
- No all-wheel-drive (AWD) option
- Slower 400V charging compared to Kia’s 800V models
- Smaller cargo space than competitors like the VW ID.3
- Hard plastic materials in some interior areas
Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Kia EV4 Hatchback?
The Kia EV4 Hatchback is a smart, efficient, and tech-forward EV designed for European buyers who want a practical alternative to sedans and crossovers. Its 550 km (342 mi) range, advanced infotainment system, and spacious interior make it an attractive choice for daily drivers. While it lacks AWD and ultra-fast charging, it delivers strong value for the price. If you’re looking for a stylish, efficient, and well-equipped electric hatchback, the EV4 is a compelling option worth considering.
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F.A.Q. about Kia EV4 Hatchback:
What is the range of this electric hatchback on a single charge?
The Kia EV4 Hatchback offers a range of up to 550 km (342 miles) with its 81 kWh battery, making it a competitive choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel.
How long does it take to fully charge?
With DC fast charging, the EV4 can charge from 10-80% in approximately 31 minutes. Home charging with an AC charger takes several hours depending on the power output.
What is the top speed?
The Kia EV4 Hatchback has a maximum speed of 170 km/h (106 mph), balancing efficiency with highway performance.
How fast does it accelerate from 0-100 km/h?
The EV4 Hatchback accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 7.7 seconds, delivering smooth and responsive driving dynamics.
What is the total power output?
The vehicle is equipped with a front-mounted motor producing 204 horsepower, offering a refined yet powerful driving experience.
What is the battery capacity?
The Kia EV4 Hatchback features an 81 kWh battery pack, enabling long-range travel and efficient energy consumption.
Is the Kia EV4 available with all-wheel drive?
No, the Kia EV4 Hatchback is front-wheel-drive (FWD) only, without an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option currently available.
What is the maximum cargo space?
The EV4 Hatchback offers a 435-liter trunk capacity, providing practical storage while benefiting from a versatile hatchback design.
What is the price of this electric hatchback?
The Kia EV4 Hatchback is priced at US$ 46,600 (€ price may vary based on exchange rates and regional availability).
Does the Kia EV4 support vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality?
Yes, the EV4 Hatchback includes V2L capability, allowing users to power small appliances and devices directly from the car's battery.
Comparison of Kia EV4 Hatchback:
The Kia EV4 Hatchback is set to make waves in the European EV market with its sleek design, competitive range, and feature-rich interior. But how does it fare against rivals like the Volkswagen ID.3, Hyundai Kona Electric, Volvo EX30, and MG 4? Let’s compare range, acceleration, power, charging time, and price to see if the EV4 stands out in the ever-growing hatchback segment.
Range
With a maximum WLTP range of 550 km (342 miles), the Kia EV4 Hatchback holds a strong position in its class. The Volkswagen ID.3 offers up to 546 km (339 miles), while the Hyundai Kona Electric follows at 514 km (319 miles). The Volvo EX30, built for urban driving, maxes out at 476 km (296 miles), whereas the MG 4 trails at 450 km (280 miles). For long-distance commuters, the EV4 is among the top performers in the hatchback segment.
Acceleration & Speed
The Kia EV4 Hatchback delivers a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 7.7 seconds, powered by its 204 hp (152 kW) front-wheel-drive motor. This is slightly slower than the Volvo EX30 Single Motor at 5.3 seconds but on par with the Hyundai Kona Electric at 7.8 seconds. The Volkswagen ID.3 and MG 4 match the EV4’s acceleration at 7.3-7.5 seconds, keeping them all in the same performance bracket. With a top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph), the EV4 is in line with most competitors but lags behind the performance-oriented Volvo EX30, which tops out at 180 km/h (112 mph).
Power
With a 204 hp (152 kW) single-motor setup, the Kia EV4 Hatchback matches the power output of the Volkswagen ID.3 Pro and Hyundai Kona Electric. However, it falls short of the Volvo EX30 Twin Motor, which packs a massive 428 hp (320 kW), and the MG 4 XPower with 435 hp (324 kW). For daily driving, the EV4 offers balanced power, but buyers looking for AWD or sportier performance may find more excitement in the Volvo or MG.
Charging Time
Using its 400V charging system, the Kia EV4 Hatchback supports DC fast charging at 135 kW, bringing the battery from 10-80% in 31 minutes. While decent, it falls behind the Hyundai Kona Electric and Volkswagen ID.3, which both support 175 kW charging, reducing charge times. The Volvo EX30 pushes ahead with a 26-minute charge time at 153 kW. For those who need rapid refueling, the Kia’s charging speed is acceptable but not best-in-class.
Price
At an estimated starting price of $46,600 (€42,900), the Kia EV4 Hatchback is positioned competitively. The Volkswagen ID.3 starts at $42,500 (€39,200), making it a slightly cheaper alternative. The Hyundai Kona Electric begins at $41,000 (€37,800), while the MG 4 is the most affordable option at $39,000 (€35,900). The premium-priced Volvo EX30 starts at $49,000 (€45,000), making the EV4 a well-balanced choice for those seeking value without sacrificing range and technology.
Verdict
The Kia EV4 Hatchback is a compelling option for European buyers who want a stylish, tech-packed electric hatchback with excellent range and practicality. While it doesn’t lead in charging speed or outright power, its blend of affordability, efficiency, and high-tech features makes it a worthy competitor to the Volkswagen ID.3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. For those wanting AWD power, the Volvo EX30 and MG 4 XPower might be more appealing. However, if you’re looking for an electric hatchback with strong daily usability, the EV4 is a serious contender.
