Kia k4: a bold return to classic compact car design
A counter-trend move from kia
Let's take a moment to forget the SUV craze. Kia is making a bold statement with the new K4, a classic compact car that succeeds the popular Ceed. It's a refreshing departure from the current trend towards raised driving positions and SUVs, opting for a lower profile and traditional piston engines instead of electric motors. This Mexican-built model, rolling off the line at the Pesquería plant, measures 4.44 meters in length and boasts a strikingly futuristic design.
Exterior design: wide shoulders and a floating roof
Visually, the K4 is a head-turner. Kia’s design language emphasizes broad shoulders and a near-floating roofline, giving it a remarkably sporty and almost fastback-like appearance. It's a departure from the more boxy designs we've seen from Kia in recent years and injects a dose of sleekness and dynamism. This isn’t your typical family sedan; it’s something with a bit more personality and flair. It truly stands out in a crowded market.
Interior: modern tech with practical touches
Stepping inside, Kia has managed to create a cabin that feels both modern and user-friendly. The Connected Car Navigation Cockpit featuring two 12.3-inch screens provides a futuristic aesthetic, but thankfully, Kia hasn’t abandoned physical buttons for essential functions. A dedicated programmable key button is a welcome addition – a big thumbs up to Kia for prioritizing usability! The only minor quibble is the somewhat bulky automatic transmission selector lever.
Space and practicality: generous dimensions
Despite its sporty looks, the K4 doesn't compromise on space. A generous wheelbase of 2.72 meters provides ample legroom for passengers. The trunk offers a respectable capacity of between 438 and 1,217 liters, making it a practical choice for families or those who need to haul cargo. The K4 proves that you can have style and practicality in the same package.
Performance and engine options
I had the opportunity to test the top-of-the-line model. While the base 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine produces a modest 115 horsepower, the tested model features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 180 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque to the crankshaft. This allows for a top speed of 210 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint of 8.4 seconds. It's a lively powertrain that provides a good balance of performance and efficiency.
Weight and handling: a trade-off
With a curb weight of at least 1,500 kilograms, the K4 carries a considerable mass. For comparison, a similar-powered Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TSI (190 hp) weighs 60-100 kilograms less, and even a 150 hp Golf is nearly 140 kilograms lighter. This extra weight is noticeable when driving calmly, impacting fuel consumption and slightly reducing agility. However, it doesn't drastically detract from the overall driving experience, and the K4 remains a comfortable and competent performer.