First impressions of the new Kia EV4: but is it as revolutionary as it seems?

Kia continues to go full steam ahead in its electric race in Europe , and as further proof of this, it has just launched its new EV4, a truly interesting and original model within its segment, which will arrive in Spain during the last quarter of this year. At 20Minutos, we saw it for the first time in Spain during its presentation in Madrid, where we had the opportunity to explore it in depth, get in, open its trunk, and closely analyze its proportions, interior space, and technological solutions. And the truth is, it has quite a few original and curious features.

Hatchback and Fastback

Far from the ubiquitous SUV format that has taken over European streets, the EV4 opts for a lower, more streamlined silhouette. It will be available in two body styles: a 4-door Fastback sedan and a more compact 5-door Hatchback , 30 centimeters shorter. This decision to diversify is especially significant, as it makes the EV4 Kia's first electric model not in the crossover category.

The sedan version, with a sharper design and clearly aerodynamic orientation, boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.23. In real terms, this translates into a certified range of up to 630 kilometers (590 kilometers for the hatchback version) thanks to an 81.4 kWh battery, although a 58.3 kWh battery will also be offered.

Now, the Fastback body style, while attractive, the brand tells us they don't believe it will be the best-selling model, at least in our country. However, in markets as vast as China, sedans and fastbacks are certainly in demand.

Things that have caught our attention

In person, the car is impressive. The design conveys solidity, but its shapes are also very unique. The front end features a new visual identity that aligns it with the brand's latest releases, and the cabin is striking for its brightness and technological focus. Of particular note is the infotainment system with three screens totaling 30 inches, compatible with apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+, and a "Theater" mode that transforms the interior so you can enjoy the entertainment you want whenever you want. Charging it at a roadside station, for example.

In terms of space, the EV4 offers good interior capacity in both body styles, especially in terms of passenger space in both the first and second rows of seats. However, the Fastback's trunk left us with some concerns. Although its volume is considerable and, in fact, it has more capacity than the Hatchback variant, access is limited by a small opening, with little height and somewhat irregular interior shapes that can make loading large or bulky items difficult.