As a journalist, I get to drive a lot of cars. While I enjoy big engines and some of the tech that premium models have to offer, I find myself increasingly drawn to budget-friendly alternatives that are actually decent. These are becoming fewer and farther between as stricter emissions and safety regulations come into place, but I think Kia’s new, 2026 K4 hatchback is a brilliant car for a couple of reasons.
As with almost any recent compact model that comes from a Korean or Japanese carmaker, the entry-level Kia K4 comes with a CVT (Kia and Hyundai call it the IVT). To make matters worse, it’s paired to a normally aspirated, 2.0-liter engine that makes 147 horsepower. Although the K4 comes generously equipped as standard and the $23,165 is alluring, I’d go for the GT Line Turbo model.
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Starting at $28,090, the Kia K4 sedan GT Line Turbo offers a great value for money, and the recently unveiled K4 hatchback Turbo will be priced similarly. You get Hyundai-Kia’s well-known, 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four with 190 horsepower and 194 pound-feet (which you get from 1,700 RPM), but even better, you get an eight-speed automatic.
This makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint possible in under 7.0 seconds. The only downside is that you must sacrifice around 4 MPG compared to the base engine, but the performance benefits far outweigh the worse fuel economy, which is still a respectable 29 MPG combined (EPA) – 26 MPG city/ 36 MPG highway.
The 2026 Kia K4 is one of the best-equipped compact models you can get
The K4 is generously equipped even in base trim, but the range-topping models bring things to another level. Kia’s compact model is one of the very few offerings in the segment that come with heated and cooled seats. These functions are operated by physical buttons, conveniently located near the inner door handle.
The Kia Stinger may have been discontinued, but some of its character has rubbed off on the K4. Higher-spec models provide a premium feel thanks to extensive use of Syntex leather and customizable ambient lighting. Some materials aren’t exactly premium, but overall, the K4 is a nice place to be, and most contact surfaces will not disappoint. The optional two-tone interior reminds me of what Volvo is doing with its more recent models, and that’s high praise.
You also get a combined 30 inches of screens in front of you – a 12.3-inch highly-customizable, digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 5.0-inch climate control screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all Kia K4 trims, and the infotainment system is one of the most responsive in the segment.
More practicality in hatchback form and refreshingly traditional
The Kia K4 shares a platform with the seventh-generation Hyundai Elantra. Despite the K4 hatchback being approximately 11 inches shorter than the K4 sedan, the body style provides more practicality. With the seats up, you get 22.2 cubic feet of cargo space. This goes up to almost 59 cubic feet, with an almost flat cargo area. The lack of an electric tailgate is expected in this segment and not missed (by me). You also get additional space near the space-saver spare tire.
Final thoughts
The 2026 Kia K4 hatchback is refreshingly traditional while looking the business. I like the fact that there is no overreliance on tech, as some of the newer models seem to be trying too hard. I like the clever solutions in the interior and cargo space departments, and the 1.6-liter turbo is peppy enough for most situations, especially with the eight-speed automatic. The K4 is an honest, sub-$30,000 hatchback, which works.
I am curious to hear what you think of Kia’s new compact hatchback model. Would you buy one over the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla? I think the Civic e:HEV is a strong argument, if you are willing to pay over $30,000 for a compact model, while the Corolla offers less practicality and a less potent, but more efficient hybrid version. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Dimitar Angelov’s automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov’s car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image source: 2025 Kia K4 Hatchback press release
Source: torquenews.com
