Like the smaller EV3, the EV4 runs on the front-wheel drive derivative of the E-GMP platform. With a 400-volt architecture it comes in two battery sizes—58.3-kWh and 81.4-kWh. Across the line-up, a single front-mounted motor offers 204 horsepower (150 kW). 0 to 100 km/h is done in 7.4 seconds with the standard battery and 7.7 seconds with the large battery.

Designed as a four-door sedan first, and a five-door hatchback second, the EV4 pushes the conventions of a compact car with its short front, long tail proportions. The EV4 sedan measures in at 4,730 mm in length and 1,480 mm in height, while the EV4 hatchback is shorter at 4,430 mm, but taller at 1,485 mm. Both models have the same width at 1,860 mm. Wheelbase is identical in both at 2,820 mm.

The technical front face of the EV4 sports the EV Tiger Face with the vertically-oriented Kia Star Map lighting. The sedan has a unique two-piece spoiler and vertically-oriented taillights, while the hatchback has sloping rear windows and an elongated proportion juxtaposed by the upright C-pillar. Both variants have 215/60R17 wheels and tires as standard. The sporty EV4 GT-Line, meanwhile, offers a more dynamic character with the wing-shaped bumpers and triangular-motif 19-inch wheels.

Thanks to its ultra-slippery co-efficient of drag (as low as 0.23), the smaller battery sedan variant has a 430-kilometer range (410 kilometers in the hatchback), while the going up to the larger battery pack brings that to 630 kilometers in the four-door (590 kilometers in the five-door). Charging time takes just 29 to 31 minutes (10 to 80 percent). Aside from Smart Regeneration, the EV4 adopts the i-Pedal 3.0 which allows for one-pedal driving in both forward and backward motion.

The EV4 uses an EV-specialized suspension design with MacPherson struts up front and multi-links at the back. Combined with the first-in-class application of third-generation “SFD3” frequency-responsive valves in the dampers and hydro G suspension bushings, it promises reduced NVH and improved ride comfort. Moreover, optimized suspension geometry and advanced body strengthening in key locations further improve cornering stability and dynamic response, with steering deflection from bumps reduced by up to 50 percent for a more direct and engaging driving experience.

Inside, the EV4 is all about unexpected contrasts in form, color, and material. Part of Kia’s Opposites United philosophy, it has a free-floating user interface with a trio of screens that measures 30 inches combined and an asymmetric one-spoke steering wheel. Features include an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, Digital Key, and remote over-the-air (OTA) updates. The OTA updates unlock features which, among others, include support for apps such as Netflix and YouTube that use the screen’s native 21:9 aspect ratio. These video apps are accessible via the dedicated Theater Mode. This optimizes the settings for the 30-inch-wide screen display, interior mood lighting, and speakers to deliver an exceptional content viewing experience. Meanwhile, another unique mode, Rest Mode uses the front relaxation seats for an on-the-road oasis.

The EV4 sedan will be produced at Kia’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO Plant in Korea, while the hatchback will be produced only in Slovakia, primarily targeting sales in Europe. Production will commence in mid-March for the Korean sedan model, and the second half of the year for the Europe-only EV4 hatchback. Production for North America and other regions is planned for later in the year.

The Kia EV4 is scheduled to go on sale in the Korean market from March, with a European launch in the second half of the year. When asked about the potential of the EV4 for the local market, executives say that the viability of this model is currently being studied.