Kia EV4 hatchback Long Range review

Kia is one of the most rapidly expanding brands in the world and with a continuously growing lineup they conquer new markets and segments on the regular. The EV lineup was recently expanded by two new models - the Kia EV4, offered in hatchback and sedan form.

Table of Contents:

• Exterior
• Interior
• Storage & practicalities
• Driving experience
• Ride comfort
• Tech features
• Cabin noise
• Acceleration and braking
• Consumption
• Charging speed
• Competition
• Verdict

Today, we are reviewing the Kia EV4 hatchback Long Range in the GT-line trim. It offers 204 hp and 209 lb-ft, delivered only to the front wheels. The battery is a large 81.4 kWh unit with a usable capacity of 78 kWh. This is the highest available trim level and most expensive option so far with a full-on GT version expected to debut soon with AWD and more power.

The EV4 shares its platform, powertrains and technology with the Kia EV3, yet the two models present clearly different identities. While the EV3 emphasizes SUV-like practicality and a more rugged appeal, the EV4 is geared toward delivering a more engaging driving experience, along with greater range and a stronger sense of character.

Kia EV4 hatchback Long Range FWD 2025 -

• Dimensions: 174.4 inches x 73.2 inches x 58.5 inches, 111 inches wheelbase.
• Drivetrain tested: Long Range - FWD 150 kW (204 hp), 209 lb-ft, 78 kWh usable battery capacity, 81.4 kWh total battery capacity
• Other drivetrains: Standard Range - FWD 150 kW (204 hp), 209 lb-ft, 58.3 kWh total battery capacity
• Charging: 125 kW CCS
• Range: 367 miles WLTP
• Weight: 4,211 lb unladen, 5,192 lb gross
• Other features: Two body styles, V2L, V2H, OTA updates.

Exterior

Compact hatchbacks have increased in size drastically in recent years and the Kia EV4 pushes those boundaries even further. It is almost 20 cm longer than a current VW Golf, which has historically always been the benchmark model for the segment. With width and height also being larger, the end result is a much more substantial look than what we’ve come to expect from compact hatchbacks.

From the front, the Kia EV4 polarizes with its vertical headlights and decorative plastic element that connects them throughout the entire front end. At night, the EV4 can be mistaken for a much more upscale model, yet in most conditions it reminds us of an alien bug from a sci-fi movie.

Speaking of nights, the optional Matrix LED headlights are a wonderful feature we highly recommend, as they turn every night drive into a sensation and don’t blind oncoming traffic as they sector out other vehicles perfectly.

Kia EV4 hatchback GT-line front end

The side profile of the Kia EV4 is bulky and further enhances the visual sensation that the car is much bigger than its segment suggests. Due to the low-mounted batteries and raised window line, the EV4 carries a more SUV silhouette than a hatchback one, optimizing and flattening the panels on the side.

There is an interesting line starting on the side and going all the way across the roof, connecting the two C-pillars. It is purely a design addition but makes the EV4 stand out so much compared to rivals.

The door handles are flush with the body and pop out as you approach the car. It is a feature that has faced rightful criticism due to its safety concerns but manufacturers continue using such handles to decrease drag and increase range.

Kia EV4 hatchback GT-line side profile

The wheels can either be 17 or 19-inch and our test model came with the larger set as they are standard for the GT-line trim. They look futuristic and have a recognizable pattern, which is becoming a common sight with wheel designs of the last few years.

The underside of the EV4 hatchback comes with black accents, which further enhance the rugged SUV appearance, whereas body-colored ones would’ve made it look more sensible.

The Kia EV4 carries its futuristic design language through to the rear. Its boomerang-shaped taillights sit within housings that resemble a pistol-like form, a styling cue increasingly seen across the brand’s latest models. The result is a bold and distinctive look that ensures the EV4 stands out in traffic.

When equipped with the GT-line package, the EV4 gets a new rear bumper that further enhances the sporty look.

Kia EV4 hatchback GT-line rear end

Interior

The cabin of the Kia EV4 is crafted with notable attention to detail, with space carefully arranged to enhance ergonomics. Build quality is consistently high throughout, whereas all of the materials one touches frequently are soft and pleasant.

This becomes particularly evident on the move, where the absence of creaks or rattles reinforces a sense of solidity. As a result, the EV4 delivers an interior experience that feels closer to that of a more premium vehicle.

Kia is making most of its interiors look similar in many ways and the EV4 is the next model to join the trend. The layout with three screens in a single unit for the driver, A/C controls and infotainment in a single unit spanning throughout the dashboard can be seen in multiple Kia products and it frankly works well in all of them.

All screens work great and have wonderful clarity, although the A/C display is hardly visible from the driver's position thanks to the steering wheel and is way too far away from the passenger to be used by them, too, rendering that innovation slightly useless.

Screen inside the Kia EV4 hatchback GT-line

The steering wheel is also not exclusive to the EV4 and once again it blends well with the rest of the interior and offers great functionality.

Behind and underneath the steering wheel is one of the very few unergonomic parts of the interior. The gear lever sticks out downwards and has the start/stop button at its base. Most new Kia/Hyundai models use this lever and in all of them it feels like an afterthought. Moreover, taller drivers might accidentally shift into neutral while driving, creating an unprecedentedly dumb way to cause an accident.

A head-up display comes as an extra and provides even more information to the driver to make sure the eyes stay on the road at all times.

Steering wheel + HUD

Below the infotainment display is a row of haptic feedback buttons that control various frequently used menus. It’s always good when such buttons make their way into modern vehicles, although the haptic part could be improved.

In conjunction with the air conditioning screen at the top, four extra prominent A/C controls allow you to control the temperature and fan speed without diving into some extra menus. Of course, a deeper climate setting menu is available deep into the abyss of the infotainment.

The center console is the main point of differentiation with bigger models like the Kia EV6. It starts off with two USB-C charging ports and a 12V outlet, as well as a wireless charging pad directly underneath.

Two large retractable cup holders and a large storage area finish off the low-mounted center console.

Center console quirks of the Kia EV4

Up on the armrest unit are some useful driving functions like the auto hold, camera system, parking sensor deactivation and hill descent assist. They are placed in a convenient position to be pressed while maneuvering.

Two extra pockets account for even more storage space between the front passengers.

Kia EV4 hatchback GT-line armrest

The door sills hide the heated and cooled seats buttons, as well as the heated steering wheel and the standard window controls. It is a cumbersome area but one that hides plenty of functionality.

On the passenger door you can find a QR code, leading you to Kia's website, informing you on the sustainability of the interior and materials inside. That’s not a feature we expect of any vehicle but is non-intrusive enough so that you don’t notice it most of the time.

Door accents

The seats in the Kia EV4 are notably comfortable, offering a relaxed, sofa-like feel that enhances overall ride comfort. Available on higher trim levels, they are complemented by headrests with a soft, pillow-like finish, making passengers feel right at home while riding in the EV4.

A panoramic roof might not be available but the option to open the available sunroof makes it that much more enjoyable than a large fixed glass panel.

Back on the second row of seats, passengers enjoy sufficient space, although their legs will stay lifted due to the large battery pack that sits underneath. Our reviewer is 1.95 m (6’4”) tall and fits well behind his own driving position, although not as comfortably as in some rivals.

Not the most comfortable seating position but good enough.

As for luxuries, the rear passengers get heated seats, USB-C ports, cup holders and climate vents, although no separate climate controls are available. That is about what we’ve come to expect from the high trim levels in that segment.

Rear seat ammenities of the Kia EV4

One thing very few EVs offer (no matter the segment) is a household-style socket. It is conveniently placed underneath the middle rear seat, allowing it to be used by the front passengers, as well. You can use it to power all kinds of devices, which is becoming more and more crucial in today’s digital era.

Lots of rivals don’t offer a majority of the extras the EV4 does even in its lower trims. Combined with the excellent build quality and great material choices, the EV4 has some seriously wonderful arguments in its favor.

Storage & practicalities

When it comes to storage, the additional exterior space has been put to good use, resulting in improved practicality. The EV4 offers 15.4 ft³ of cargo capacity, comfortably exceeding that of rivals such as the Opel Astra and the Volkswagen ID.3.

Kia EV4 hatchback trunk

For added versatility, the trunk floor can be kept in a higher position, revealing extra storage space underneath for accessories. This proves particularly useful given the absence of a frunk (front trunk) for permanent storage.

With the rear seats folded and the floor set in its raised position, the EV4 provides a large, flat load area without a step between the seats and the trunk, making it especially practical for carrying bulkier items.

Storage solutions in the Kia EV4

Driving experience

Operating the Kia EV4 is as easy as it gets. It’s like shaking hands with an old friend and leaves no desire for improvement. As far as regular daily driven vehicles go, Kia has mastered the art of usability.

The steering is precise but also assisted enough to not tire the driver on longer journeys. You always know what’s going on underneath the tires and have the time to respond in all conditions.

The EV4 is highly maneuverable and can turn in tight spaces, allowing easy parking. However, with the increased size of the EV4 compared to most hatches, you have to look for bigger spots and accept you won’t be fitting everywhere. As much as the bigger size benefits the overall ownership experience, it hinders city usability slightly and has to be taken into consideration if you live in a congested urban area.

The body doesn’t lean too much in corners, giving a sensation of security and calmness inside. If more power were available, the EV4 would likely excel in sporty driving around twisty canyons.

Something to consider if you’re a taller potential customer is that the roof is too low and the seat is mounted very high, causing your head to bump into the roof on the regular. This is a major oversight, which can likely be resolved with lower aftermarket seat rails but remains a problem nonetheless.

One incredibly annoying feature of modern Kia/Hyundai models (for European markets only!) is that the driver aids are incredibly hard to disable and that procedure must be done every time the vehicle is started. The lane keeping assistant interferes when it isn’t needed at all and the speed limit recognition works inadequately, resulting in continuous beeps while driving.

The procedure for turning said assistants off is cumbersome and requires multiple button presses. Multiple manufacturers have sorted that problem by now but Kia seems to not want to ease its customers.

On the other hand, a fantastic safety feature the company has been doing for a few years now is the little camera projection of the blind spot, which pops in the gauge cluster display when the blinkers are on. This eliminates the need for shoulder peaks when merging and massively reduces the risk of collision from the blind spots.

Indicator camera mirrors

Ride comfort

Sharp handling has not come at the expense of comfort. The EV4 hatchback absorbs speed bumps and potholes with ease, keeping body movement well controlled and minimizing disturbance for passengers. Even over rougher surfaces, the cabin remains composed, delivering a smooth and stable ride. That’s an area multiple rivals have mastered throughout the years and the Kia EV4 doesn’t fall behind a single bit.

Tech features

On-board technology is perfectly fine in the EV4. It offers no surprises or tremendous advancements, yet it does exactly what it’s supposed to without lagging or burying important information deep in menus.

Starting off with the little climate display between the gauge cluster and the infotainment, it cannot be configured at all and has presets that control certain features. If there are more settings you want to do - press the cross at the top right corner of this unit and this takes you to an extensive climate control menu on the main screen.

As for the center screen, it is a 12.3” unit that has a configurable home menu and a list of apps, much like a phone does. It is easy to decipher and highly customizable to one’s liking.

Interior screen situation

There are connectivity features that give live information for the weather, recent sports fixtures or news. The EV4 can also connect to your calendar and thus inform you of your schedule.

Connectivity features

Apple CarPlay works well and connects quickly every time. You can also use it as a wired connection via the plug in the center console, also allowing you to charge your phone and ensure even better connection.

The built-in navigation doesn’t have the most modern look but offers top-notch usability. It calculates routes with charging in mind, checks for traffic jams or construction sites and adapts the route accordingly.

The information from the navigation can be displayed on the head-up display unit, which is a major benefit and allows drivers to take their eyes off the road less frequently.

Navigation

The vehicle settings menu is way too detailed and cumbersome. It is hard to navigate and the plethora of distinct submenus means some items are not where you’d necessarily expect.

Only some of the vehicle settings submenus

A remarkable setting is the ability to assign features to buttons. There are two buttons marked with a star - one at the steering wheel and another below the infotainment, which can call up different menus or features you frequently use. That is standard in many vehicles, but the EV4 allows customers to do the same with other buttons like the volume knob, mode button or the next track buttons. We applaud this level of customization, although it might be more gimmicky than useful in real life.

Wonderful customization option

The camera system of the EV4 is crisp and clear. It also offers an easy switch of angles and a clear overhead image even at night.

At night, the ambient light creates a cozy atmosphere inside the cabin of the EV4 and the color scheme can be adjusted.

One of the neat features of the EV4 is that the drive modes can be easily changed through a button on the bottom of the steering wheel. The different driving modes do make a noticeable difference, although the ride comfort and steering feel remain the same at all times.

The gauge cluster is good in terms of visibility and clarity of the text shown. Although it offers three different layouts, the differences between them are so minimal that most people wouldn’t even notice.

However, you can display different pieces of information in the middle of the display and make the best use of it.

Kia EV4 Gauge cluster

Cabin noise

The Kia EV4 is quiet and doesn’t translate much ambient noise inside. The sound levels we measured rival much more substantial rivals at higher price points, positioned in more premium segments. As speed rises we don’t notice the usual heavy increase in wind and tire noises, but it rather happens gradually like in sedans.

Sound level tests are carried out with a specialized sound level meter placed in the car's cupholders. The test is conducted with air conditioning and radio off and while maintaining a steady speed.

Acceleration and braking

The EV4 hatchback is no sports car, at least in the trim we have, which offers 204 hp that go only to the front wheels. The sprint from 0 to 62 mph happens in 7.43 seconds, which is slightly better than the manufacturer-stated 7.7 seconds. For quicker acceleration and sportier feel customers will have to wait a bit more until the EV4 GT goes on sale later this year.

Braking feels solid and leaves us satisfied with the results. The complete stop from 62 mph happens in 38 m (124’8”). This is a remarkable result on its own, but even more impressive given that the test vehicle had winter tires on, which usually increase the distance.

Acceleration and deceleration are measured with a RaceBox device inside the car. Testing is done with a single person inside the car, with air conditioning and traction control off.

Consumption

Kia has made the EV4 hatchback efficient at all speeds. Its FWD layout allows for less losses and the lower stance compared to SUVs accounts for better airflow and less drag. In its segment the EV4 offers one of the biggest batteries available, which rightfully leads to a long range on a single charge. In its class it loses only to the Renault Scenic E-Tech, which utilizes an even bigger battery. As for our detailed thoughts on the EV4’s efficiency, check out our detailed range test article.

We measure consumption by driving at constant speeds on an identical test route during the day. Testing is conducted with air conditioning, all safety systems and radio on. The data comes from the vehicle's board computer. Specific testing parameters such as ambient temperature are mentioned in the text on a case by case basis.

We now suggest you use the widget below to find out the Kia EV4 Long Range hatchback’s range in every combination of speed and temperature you might need. We've used our real world tests and a complex model to provide an estimate that should be as close to the actual performance as possible.

Charging speed

Kia hasn’t equipped the EV4 with an 800V architecture and charging doesn’t happen at supersonic speeds. However, the 10-80% reload took us exactly 31 minutes as advertised, which isn’t the quickest by any means but isn’t bad, either.

What is arguably more important is that the EV4 offers V2L, V2H and V2G charging, which most rivals don’t. This means that you can use the EV4 as a generator and power your electric devices, campsite or even power your entire home’s ecosystem.

Competition

The Kia EV4 hatchback occupies a unique position in today’s market. It is larger than most traditional hatchbacks, yet still smaller than compact SUVs and crossovers, effectively placing it in a class of its own. This distinct sizing makes it an appealing option for a specific group of buyers. More importantly, its well rounded performance allows it to challenge larger models while clearly outperforming smaller rivals.

The first rival we chose for the EV4 hatchback is the Renault Scenic E-Tech, because they are similarly sized. The Renault is slightly larger in all dimensions but also more practical and with a bigger battery. The EV4 is more modern inside and utilizes better materials.

For the second competitor we selected the Volkswagen ID.3, which has been on the market for quite some time now. It is an older platform with more compact size and RWD, making it that much more engaging to drive. The Kia edges with much better tech and more usable storage space, as well as better interior materials.

Renault Scenic E-Tech Long Range 2024 - • Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S 2023 -

Verdict

Kia has hit a homerun with the EV4 hatchback. It is a purpose-built vehicle that can easily be used as a daily driver but also take a family on a longer journey without hesitations. It doesn’t interfere with your everyday life (except for when the driver aids are on) and just enhances the experience you get from travelling.

The EV4 is aimed more at buyers seeking the presence and practicality of an SUV in a smaller footprint, rather than traditional hatchback customers prioritizing compact dimensions. As a result, some of its strengths, particularly its larger size, may not appeal to everyone.

If you’re in the market for a hatchback (or the sedan version) we highly recommend checking out the Kia EV4 and seeing if it fits into your personal lifestyle. It masterfully blends multiple virtues to create a brilliant overall product with minimal downsides.

Pros

• Long range on a single charge.
• Large size.
• Opulent equipment in all trims.
• V2L, V2H and V2G.
• Great material and build quality.
• Very customizable infotainment.
• Highly maneuverable.
• Efficient drivetrain.
• Comfortable ride.
• Upscale sensation as a passenger.

Cons

• Large size.
• Highly intrusive driver aids.
• Not suitable for taller drivers.
• Difficult to disable ADAS systems.
• Polarizing exterior styling.
• Hard to see climate control display.