While Kia continues its ambitious expansion into the electric vehicle market, the new EV4 Fastback emerges as a formidable competitor to established players like the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3. The front-mounted electric motor delivers 150kW (201bhp) and 283Nm of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0-62mph in a competitive 7.4-7.7 seconds—figures that place it squarely in contention with its rivals.
The EV4’s aerodynamic profile achieves a 0.27Cd drag coefficient, enhancing both efficiency and performance. This sleek fastback design, characterized by an upright C-pillar and sculpted bodywork, doesn’t merely serve aesthetic purposes. Active Air Flaps and extensive underbody coverage contribute meaningfully to the vehicle’s impressive range capabilities. The design philosophy of “Opposites United” guides every exterior element, creating a distinctive visual signature unlike anything else in the segment.
Battery options include 58.3kWh and 81.4kWh packs, with the long-range variant delivering up to 630km (391 miles) on the WLTP cycle. The hatchback configuration sacrifices marginally less range at 367 miles. I’ve seen few competitors match this combination of practicality and efficiency in a single package. With proper care, owners can expect the EV4’s battery to deliver exceptional longevity, potentially lasting up to 15 years or more with minimal degradation.
Charging capabilities stand out in a crowded segment. The 400V architecture supports 350kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes. This performance, coupled with standard battery preconditioning, guarantees consistent rapid charging experiences across varying conditions.
The interior showcases Kia’s technological ambitions with a 30-inch widescreen display and 12.3-inch touchscreen cluster. Practicality hasn’t been overlooked, with 435 liters of boot space placing the EV4 among the class leaders. The saloon variant offers even more capacity with its 490 litres of storage.
Set for UK and EU launches in 2025, the EV4 targets buyers seeking sophistication beyond raw acceleration figures. Its competitive pricing strategy aims to undercut premium competitors while offering equivalent or superior technology.
Kia’s chassis tuning balances comfort with agility through MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear configuration. The vehicle-to-load functionality, now standard, demonstrates Kia’s commitment to practical innovation as the brand strengthens its position in the increasingly competitive EV marketplace.
