A hatchback version of a gas-powered sedan and an electric version of a sedan that looks like it should have a hatch. Those are the two new models Kia is bringing to the New York International Auto Show this week. The all-new Kia K4 hatchback has up to 190 horsepower, and the Kia EV4 is an entry-level electric sedan with up to 330 miles of range.
Kia K4 Hatchback Replaces Forte 5
Just like the K4 sedan replaced the Forte, the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback replaces the Forte GT. Also, like the K4 sedan, the hatch styling is as far from the model that came before it as is possible.
The K4 looks more like a small SUV than it does a compact hatch; much the same as the EV6 electric, it doesn’t really look like a crossover and instead looks like a hot hatch.
Interior space is also more SUV than car, with 22.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats (59.3 seats folded) and what Kia calls class-leading head and legroom for back seat passengers. It is 11 inches shorter than the sedan, which cuts into the maximum usable cargo space, but also makes this a sharp-looking little unit.
The Entry-Level Hot Hatch Isn’t Dead Yet
The standard engine is a 2.0L four making 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. And yes, it has a CVT.
The up-level engine on GT-Line models is a 1.6L turbo-four. It makes 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, and it has an eight-speed automatic. Turbo models also get a sportier suspension, making this one all car from behind the wheel.
Inside, you’ll find the same cockpit as the sedan. That includes 30 inches of screens with Kia’s available connected car cockpit. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both standard, as is wireless phone charging.
Kia’s full driver assist suite is available, with lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise standard. Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane centering and evasive steering assist are optional.
The 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback will hit dealers in late 2025, with more details and pricing to come.
EV4 Brings Electric to Compact Sedan Space
The 2026 Kia EV4 is Kia’s smallest EV yet for the U.S. market. It will be offered with a 58.3kWh battery or 81.4 kWh in the long-range Wind and GT-Line trims. With the larger battery, the Wind has an estimated range of 330 miles.
Whichever battery you choose, the motor is a 201-horsepower unit that drives the front wheels.
A 400V EV architecture allows charging from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes when fast charging. The EV4 will also have a North American Charging Standard (aka Tesla Supercharger) port.
Kia says the new model will have its latest i-Pedal system, version 3.0. That’s Kia’s one-pedal drive mode, which can bring the car to a complete stop without touching the brake pedal. The system now also works in reverse. You also won’t have to turn it back on each time the car is started anymore.
Will Have K4’s High-Tech Cabin
Other EV perks include Vehicle to Load, or V2L. This lets you power household electronics using the car’s battery, which is ideal for camping or just days when you don’t want to be behind your desk.
Like the K4, the EV4 will have two 12.3-inch screens and a 5-inch climate control display. You can update the system over the air. It also gives you new themes, including NBA team layouts for purchase.The EV4 will offer Highway Driving Assist as standard, with driver attention warning and forward collision avoidance assist optional.
The Kia EV4 is expected to arrive at dealers in early 2026. The electric sedan will be built in Korea, and pricing and more details will come closer to launch.
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