Kia has announced the release of the K4 model in European markets. The model is produced in Mexico, where the sedan and hatchback for the USA are also assembled. However, only the five-door version with different engines and transmissions will be transported across the ocean.

The base model for Europe will be a 1.0 T-GDI petrol turbo engine (115 hp), available with both a 6-speed manual transmission and a 7-speed DCT in the MHEV version. In comparison, the entry-level K4 in the USA comes with a 2.0L engine producing 150 hp and a CVT.

Next in the range for the European version is a 1.6 T-GDI turbo engine, offered in variants of 150 and 180 hp (compared to 190 hp in the USA). Both are combined only with DCT. In 2026, a full hybrid will join the lineup.

Judging by the figures, the K4 should be noticeably more spacious than its competitor - the Volkswagen Golf. The wheelbase is 2720 mm (+100 mm compared to the Golf Mk8.5), and the trunk volume in non-MHEV versions reaches 438 liters compared to 381 liters for VW. The hybrid addition reduces the trunk to 328 liters.

The interior in the premium versions is adorned with Harman Kardon acoustics and a panoramic display: a digital instrument panel (12.3”), a separate climate control unit (5.3”), and multimedia (12.3”). Standard equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a voice assistant with AI.

Prices have not yet been announced. It can be assumed that Kia will slightly undercut the Golf’s pricing.

Source: Kia