2025 Kia K4 is proof sedans are here to stay
Kia reveals 2025 K4 sedan with 1.6L turbo pushing 192 PS
After giving us a glimpse of its latest compact sedan, Kia has revealed the all-new K4 in full. Making its debut at the 2024 New York International Auto Show, the K4 serves as the successor to the Forte (AKA Cerato) and is proof that compact sedans are here to stay in Kia.
We already know what it looks like inside & out since Kia released the first images and details last week. Now it's time to find out what hardware powers the sleek-looking sedan. The first engine is a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder that delivers 149 PS and 179 Nm of torque. Power is then transferred to an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) which is the brand's take on a CVT.
Those that want more oomph, however, can instead get the 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four which doles out 192 PS and 265 Nm of pull. It's slightly down on power compared to the Forte's 1.6 turbo which delivered 204 PS but it's still more than enough pep than the 2.0-liter unit. Instead of an IVT, the turbocharged 1.6 is saddled with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Design-wise, the K4 takes inspiration from the brand's latest models. These include the all-new EV9, the refreshed Carnival, and also the EV6. Its new coupe-like design and aggressive LED lighting elements make the all-new K4 have a more sports car-like appearance which blends well with the futuristic shape of the four-door sedan. It also gets aggressive bumpers, stylish 18-inch alloy wheels, and window-mounted rear door handles for extra flair.
Pop the doors open and the K4 invites guests into a high-end cabin that's dominated by a pair of digital displays. Despite its high-tech appearance, Kia opted to put traditional physical switches into the cabin like a T-bar gear selector, buttons for the HVAC system, switches on the door panels, as well as buttons on the center console.
For connectivity, the vehicle supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and an intelligent voice assistant that can be activated by saying “Hey Kia”. It also comes with a unique feature wherein an NFC-enabled device can unlock or lock the K4. This can be done via a smart watch or smart mobile device which can also start the vehicle.
The 2025 Kia K4 is set to arrive in US dealerships later this year and may arrive in other markets in the second half of 2024. With it, should Kia Philippines bring the K4 to the local market?
