Review and specifications
2025 Kia K4
The K4 is slightly larger than the Forte it replaced, giving it more passenger and trunk space. The powertrains are similar, with the base configuration being a 147-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission. The sportier version gets a 190-hp, 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The K4’s comfortable ride punches above class standards, and it feels responsive through corners. The cabin is roomy for its class, with comfortable seats front and rear, plus a huge trunk. But the car’s low stance makes it a chore to get in and out, and the hidden rear door handles are a nuisance. There are tech features that stand out in the class, like the available multi-screen display that spans 30 inches, serving the instrument cluster, climate controls, and infotainment system. Other available upgrades include a Harman Kardon premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a large sunroof. All K4s have wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The K4 packs a full roster of active safety features, and there are numerous upgrades that are more typically found on luxury models.
- Market value
- $20,575
- Fuel
- Conventional
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Seats
- 5
At a glance
Model data
Overview
- Powertrain
- Conventional
- Body style
- sedan
- Drive type
- FWD
- Transmission
- Automatic, 8-speed
- Category
- Small sedans/hatchbacks
- Generation began
- 2025
Pricing
- Current retail median
- $20,575
- Retail value range
- $19,375 - $23,550
- Original MSRP range
- $21,990 - $28,090
- Trade-in range
- $17,565 - $22,205
Ratings
- Road test score
- 79/100
- Owner satisfaction
- 4/5
- Would buy again
- 62%
Fuel economy
- EPA city
- 29 MPG
- EPA highway
- 39 MPG
- EPA combined
- 33 MPG
- Tested city
- 21 MPG
- Tested highway
- 47 MPG
- Tested overall
- 32 MPG
- Annual fuel cost
- $1,220
- Cruising range
- 395 miles
Road tests
- 0-30 mph
- 3.5 sec
- 0-60 mph
- 8.6 sec
- 60-0 mph braking
- 124 ft
- Avoidance speed
- 55 mph
- Test status
- Test Completed
Dimensions
- Length
- 185 in
- Width
- 73 in
- Height
- 56 in
- Wheelbase
- 107 in
- Weight
- 2,960 lb
- Maximum load
- 850 lb
- Towing capacity
- 0 lb
Interior
- Seating
- 5 people
- Front head room
- 4 in
- Front leg room
- 43.5 in
- Rear head room
- 2 in
- Rear leg room
- 30.5 in
- Luggage
- 3+2+0
Owner feedback
- Comfort
- 3/5
- Driving
- 4/5
- Styling
- 5/5
- Value
- 4/5
Environmental impact
- Air pollution score
- 6/10
- Greenhouse gas score
- 6/10
- SmartWay
- No
Brand context
About Kia
<p>For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among competitive small and midsized sedans, Kia sells the K4 and K5. For small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento are competitive with nice interiors, good ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have a useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, but buyers need to be attentive to reliability. Many new and used Kias earn our recommendation.</p><p><br/></p>
Vehicle ID: 31123 First published: April 2, 2024 Updated: June 4, 2026
Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.
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