As a journalist, I get to drive a number of vehicles. Whereas I take pleasure in large engines and among the tech that premium fashions have to supply, I discover myself more and more drawn to budget-friendly alternate options which are really first rate. These have gotten fewer and farther between as stricter emissions and security rules come into place, however I believe Kia’s new, 2026 K4 hatchback is a superb automotive for a few causes.
As with virtually any latest compact mannequin that comes from a Korean or Japanese carmaker, the entry-level Kia K4 comes with a CVT (Kia and Hyundai name it the IVT). To make issues worse, it is paired to a usually aspirated, 2.0-liter engine that makes 147 horsepower. Though the K4 comes generously outfitted as customary and the $23,165 is alluring, I might go for the GT Line Turbo mannequin.
Beginning at $28,090, the Kia K4 sedan GT Line Turbo gives a terrific worth for cash, and the lately unveiled K4 hatchback Turbo can be priced equally. You get Hyundai-Kia’s well-known, 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four with 190 horsepower and 194 pound-feet (which you get from 1,700 RPM), however even higher, you get an eight-speed automated.
This makes the 0 to 60 mph dash potential in beneath 7.0 seconds. The one draw back is that you have to sacrifice round 4 MPG in comparison with the bottom engine, however the efficiency advantages far outweigh the more serious gas financial system, which continues to be a decent 29 MPG mixed (EPA) – 26 MPG metropolis/ 36 MPG freeway.
The 2026 Kia K4 is without doubt one of the best-equipped compact fashions you will get
The K4 is generously outfitted even in base trim, however the range-topping fashions carry issues to a different degree. Kia’s compact mannequin is without doubt one of the only a few choices within the section that include heated and cooled seats. These capabilities are operated by bodily buttons, conveniently situated close to the inside door deal with.
The Kia Stinger could have been discontinued, however a few of its character has rubbed off on the K4. Increased-spec fashions present a premium really feel due to in depth use of Syntex leather-based and customizable ambient lighting. Some supplies aren’t precisely premium, however total, the K4 is a pleasant place to be, and most contact surfaces won’t disappoint. The non-obligatory two-tone inside jogs my memory of what Volvo is doing with its newer fashions, and that is excessive reward.
You additionally get a mixed 30 inches of screens in entrance of you – a 12.3-inch highly-customizable, digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 5.0-inch local weather management display screen. Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are customary on all Kia K4 trims, and the infotainment system is without doubt one of the most responsive within the section.
Extra practicality in hatchback kind and refreshingly conventional
The Kia K4 shares a platform with the seventh-generation Hyundai Elantra. Regardless of the K4 hatchback being roughly 11 inches shorter than the K4 sedan, the physique type gives extra practicality. With the seats up, you get 22.2 cubic toes of cargo area. This goes as much as virtually 59 cubic toes, with an virtually flat cargo space. The shortage of an electrical tailgate is anticipated on this section and never missed (by me). You additionally get further area close to the space-saver spare tire.
The 2026 Kia K4 hatchback is refreshingly conventional whereas wanting the enterprise. I like the truth that there is no such thing as a overreliance on tech, as among the newer fashions appear to be making an attempt too laborious. I just like the intelligent options within the inside and cargo area departments, and the 1.6-liter turbo is peppy sufficient for many conditions, particularly with the eight-speed automated. The K4 is an sincere, sub-$30,000 hatchback, which works.
I’m curious to listen to what you consider Kia’s new compact hatchback mannequin. Would you purchase one over the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla? I believe the Civic e:HEV is a robust argument, if you’re prepared to pay over $30,000 for a compact mannequin, whereas the Corolla gives much less practicality and a much less potent, however extra environment friendly hybrid model. Be at liberty to share your ideas within the remark part beneath.
Dimitar Angelov‘s automotive pursuits made him an knowledgeable in all kinds of automobiles. Japanese manufacturers like Toyota are closest to his coronary heart, though efficiency vehicles typically are his favourite section, which is why he’s consistently looking out for one of the best offers in the marketplace. Dimitar Angelov’s automotive ardour and knack for the written phrase led him to finish a Grasp of Arts in Media and Communications, and traditional automotive restoration. Dim is joyful to get behind the wheel of any automotive and share his impressions. You may observe Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Fb.
Picture supply: 2025 Kia K4 Hatchback press launch
