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New 2025 Kia K4 Sedan Revealed With Has Two Engine Options

Today, Kia took the wraps off the brand-new 2025 K4, a compact four-door vehicle, making its worldwide introduction at the New York International Auto Show in 2024. This car is set to hit the US market before the year ends.

The K4 will be available with two engine choices. The basic option is a 2.0-liter engine with four cylinders, capable of producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This engine is coupled with a type of transmission that doesn’t use fixed gears but adjusts continuously.

For those wanting more zip, there’s a second option: a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with four cylinders as well. This engine steps up the game to 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque and is matched with an eight-speed automatic gearbox that includes paddle shifters on the steering wheel for those who like a bit more control. There’s also talk about a possible GT version in the future, boasting even more power; its predecessor, the Forte GT, had 201 horsepower.

This latest iteration of Kia’s compact sedan is set to replace the Forte. Notably, it’s bigger than the model it’s replacing, marking it as the most spacious compact sedan in its class. The K4’s dimensions stretch to 185.4 inches in length and 72.8 inches in width, outdoing the Forte’s dimensions of 182.7 by 70.9 inches.

On the inside, the K4 capitalizes on its increased size, offering 38.0 inches of legroom at the back and 37.3 inches of headroom for rear passengers. The trunk is pretty spacious too, with 14.6 cubic feet available for storage.

Kia plans to roll out the K4 in five versions: LX, LXS, EX, GT-Line, and GT-Line Turbo. The dashboard is dominated by a 30-inch screen, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included without needing wires. Updates for the system can be downloaded directly, and Kia’s latest Digital Key 2.0, which uses Ultra Wideband technology, will be an option.

The interior options include a Medium Gray for the LX, LXS, and EX trims. The EX trim also offers a Slate Green option, while the GT-Line trims come with options for Onyx and Off-White interiors. Features like heated front seats are standard on GT-Line models, with additional options like seat ventilation and memory for the driver’s seat available. There’s also the option to upgrade to a Harman Kardon sound system.

Design-wise, the K4 adopts a bold look with a fastback roofline that Kia describes as part of its “Opposites United” design philosophy. The car stands out with its broad posture and vertical LED lights at the front and back, drawing inspiration from the EV9. Kia even cleverly integrated the rear door handles into the C-pillar to streamline the look.

The GT-Line version distinguishes itself with special front and back designs, glossy black highlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and additional trim elements to give it a unique flair. The GT-Line Turbo version adds even more with LED projection headlights, LED fog lights, and exclusive wheel designs. Both GT versions benefit from a multi-link rear suspension setup.

Safety hasn’t been overlooked. Kia has packed the K4 with an extensive list of standard safety features, including new rear side airbags. Technologies like lane-keeping assistance, forward collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic alert are part of the package. The GT-Line Turbo model will also have the option for an enhanced forward collision warning system.

While the starting price for the K4 remains unannounced, it’s anticipated to be a bit higher than the 2024 Forte, which starts at just under $20,000 with destination charges. Pricing details and the exact date of availability will be disclosed closer to its market launch, expected in the latter half of 2024.