Kia EV4: Five things you need to know

Kia is enjoying one of the strongest periods in its history and shows no sign of easing off. Several new models are on the way, but the next to arrive is the EV4 - the South Korean brand’s latest 100% electric entry in the compact family-car segment, one of the market’s biggest.

This class remains central to Kia’s long-standing European strategy. When the company chose to develop and build cars in Europe specifically for European customers, the successful Ceed was the outcome. Now, two decades and three generations later, the EV4 picks up the baton from the Ceed and becomes Kia’s first electric model manufactured on European soil.

Below, you can get to know the Kia EV4 through five key points. The model is already available to order in Portugal, with prices starting at 36 700 euros.

Hatchback or Fastback: which Kia EV4 should you choose?

The Kia EV4’s styling is set to spark debate. It is Kia’s first “non-SUV” model to adopt the “Opposites United” design language, with a sturdy stance and details such as the Star Map light signature. This look has become a recognised part of the brand’s identity and shapes its newest models.

In Portugal, the EV4 is offered in two distinct body styles: a hatchback (five-door, two-box saloon-style body) or a Fastback (four-door, three-box saloon-style body). The difference between them is immediately apparent.

On the EV4 Fastback, the rear section is stretched by 30 cm, which directly benefits luggage space: 490 litres versus 435 litres in the two-box EV4.

Even so, both versions share the same second row, which promises generous room. A long wheelbase (2,82 m) and a flat floor play their part here.

Beyond that, the five-door EV4 and the EV4 Fastback are identical in specification, so choosing the body style ultimately comes down to your preference or your needs.

Technology is a Kia EV4 ace

If the Kia EV4’s exterior raises eyebrows, the cabin sticks to the brand’s minimalist approach - but one that is packed with technology. The dashboard, for instance, combines the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system into a 30″ display, fitted as standard across the range.

It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside a 100 W USB-C port and, on higher-spec versions, a wireless smartphone charging pad.

Although much of the information and functionality is concentrated in the screens, safety remains one of Kia’s key pillars. For usability, convenience and safety, the EV4 also provides physical shortcut buttons for core functions, plus a dedicated panel solely for the climate-control system.

Two batteries to choose from

In Portugal, the Kia EV4 is available with two battery options: 58,3 kWh or 81,4 kWh. Even with the smaller battery - offered only on the hatchback - the range is already strong, at up to 440 km (WLTP combined cycle).

However, if you plan longer family journeys, the 81,4 kWh battery is the one to pick. Range rises to 594 km in the five-door EV4 and to 617 km in the EV4 Fastback, both on the WLTP combined cycle.

Opting for a fully electric car inevitably brings a key trade-off: a cheaper version with less range, or a pricier one capable of covering greater distances.

With the Kia EV4, the decision is made easier because both options deliver ranges that place it among the best in its segment - thanks to the E-GMP platform, the same architecture that underpins the EV6 and EV9.

What does not change, regardless of battery choice, is the output of the front-mounted electric motor. The EV4 produces 150 kW (204 hp) and 283 Nm, enough for strong performance: 0 to 100 km/h in 7,4s (58,3 kWh battery) and 7,7s (81,4 kWh battery).

Three trim levels

Kia’s new compact electric family car arrives in Portugal with three equipment levels: Drive, Tech and GT-Line.

Drive is the most affordable trim and is offered exclusively with the smaller battery. Despite being the entry version, the standard equipment list is notably comprehensive. It includes virtually all driver-assistance systems, as well as dual-zone air conditioning.

Above it sits Tech, which uses the 81,4 kWh battery and adds comfort and convenience features such as electrically adjustable seats and synthetic-leather trim, wireless charging, tinted rear windows and 19″ alloy wheels (17″ on Drive).

At the top of the range is GT-Line, which also stands out with a sportier look, including 19″ alloys with a specific design. It further adds heated seats, an electric tailgate, the “Ice Cube” light signature and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving.

How much does it cost?

The new Kia EV4 can now be ordered in Portugal from 36 700 euros (excluding registration and transport costs, and metallic paint) for the five-door, two-box version with the 58,3 kWh battery. The EV4 Fastback, meanwhile, is only available with the larger battery and in GT-Line trim, which explains its price of 47 200 euros.

For business customers, the five-door Kia EV4 starts at 30 890 euros (+VAT). The EV4 Fastback starts at 38 205 euros (+VAT).