Kia EV4: A new model that catches the eye

Jean-Pierre Ndu
décembre 5, 2025

We spent a few days with the Kia EV4 in its hatchback version, giving us the chance to see how this new electric compact blends into our routine. With its assertive design, calm driving character and well-managed efficiency, it quickly felt like a car built for those who want to drive differently without giving up the pleasure of being behind the wheel.

Exterior design and dimensions: a sharp silhouette that turns heads

At first glance, the EV4 makes a strong impression. Kia went for something simple yet striking. The front end, with its thin vertical headlights, gives the car an almost feline attitude. The long sloping hood, steeply raked windscreen and smooth sides create a fluid, almost sporty look that stands apart from the bulkier shapes we often see in the EV segment.

It’s a 4.43-meter compact, but thanks to its stretched proportions, it appears more planted and elongated. At the rear, the boomerang-shaped lights highlight a clean, minimalist tailgate. Beyond the aesthetics, the 435-liter boot is spot-on for daily life: camera gear, gym bags, weekend luggage — everything fits without a second thought.

Interior and ergonomics: modern, airy and easy to live with

Inside, the EV4 offers the contemporary atmosphere we now associate with Kia’s latest electric models. A wide band of screens structures the dashboard, yet the whole setup feels intuitive. You switch between touch controls and physical shortcuts without ever stopping to think. There’s no learning curve: you get in, adjust a few things, and everything makes sense.

Up front, the driving position is pleasantly low for an EV, and the seats offer the right balance of comfort and support for longer drives. In the back, the generous wheelbase provides surprising legroom for a compact car, even if the sloping roofline reminds taller passengers that this isn’t a crossover. The overall feel is simple, clean, smartly assembled and coherent with the car’s positioning.

Motor and batteries: simple and effective

Kia kept things straightforward: a single 204-hp electric motor, smooth and never aggressive, paired with two battery options. The smaller one, around 58 kWh usable, is perfect for everyday use. The larger one, a bit over 81 kWh, opens the door to longer trips without constantly monitoring the range.

On our mixed test route, we averaged between 15 and 16 kWh/100 km, giving the Long Range version real-world distances comfortably above 500 km. Fast-charging takes around half an hour to go from 10 to 80%, which fits naturally into a short motorway break.

Driving experience: smooth, reassuring and more engaging than expected

On the road, the EV4 hatchback reminds us of what a modern compact should be: easy to handle, stable and serene. The steering is precise without being heavy, and it gives a surprisingly natural feel. The chassis follows the rhythm effortlessly, whether we’re cruising calmly or taking a more dynamic stretch of road.

Comfort stands out most. With the 17-inch wheels, the EV4 absorbs imperfections gracefully and stays impressively quiet. The 19-inch setup looks better but is slightly more sensitive to rough surfaces. The i-Pedal system, allowing true one-pedal driving, quickly becomes second nature in the city and contributes to excellent efficiency.

Conclusion

This Kia EV4 hatchback doesn’t try to revolutionize the EV world — and that’s exactly why it works so well. It makes everyday life easier and more pleasant, combining fluidity, long-range capability and a design that feels genuinely fresh. It’s the kind of car you adapt to instantly, and one that makes you want to take the long way home.

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