Not every electric car shopper wants a high-riding SUV, and Kia clearly knows it. Enter the Kia EV4, a fresh alternative for anyone craving a practical family EV in a more traditional hatchback or sleek fastback silhouette. Positioned neatly between the EV3 and the upcoming EV5, the EV4 gives buyers another design-led choice without sacrificing space, range, or everyday usability.

Performance: Smooth, Capable, and Easy to Live With

Both EV4 body styles are powered by a front-mounted electric motor that produces 201bhp. The standard-range model completes the 0–100km/h sprint in 7.4 seconds, while the long-range version takes a slightly more relaxed 7.7 seconds.

Kia talks a lot about the engineering work behind the scenes, things like frequency-responsive dampers, a multi-link rear axle, and suspension bushings designed to reduce vibration. And while the EV4 is impressively refined, it’s broadly on par with rivals like the Cupra Born, Skoda Elroq, and Volkswagen ID.3. That’s not a criticism, those cars are also impressively quiet and comfortable.

Regenerative braking is a real highlight. Steering-wheel paddles let you move through three levels of regen, plus there’s an adaptive setting that automatically maintains distance from the car in front. And if you prefer one-pedal driving, there’s a dedicated mode for that too. It all feels intuitive once you’re behind the wheel.

Range & Charging: Long Distances, Faster Efficiency

The Kia EV4 will be available with two battery options: a 58.3kWh standard-range pack and a larger 81.4kWh long-range version. Thanks to its more aerodynamic design compared with the EV3, the EV4 manages to push those batteries even further. The fastback variant can deliver up to 633km WLTP on a single charge, while the hatchback offers an impressive 531km. Reaching well beyond the 500km mark is no small achievement, especially considering how rare that level of range was only a few years ago.

You can expect a 10–80% top-up to take around 30 minutes regardless of the battery you choose. Features such as battery preconditioning help ensure the car hits those speeds consistently, and the EV4 also supports Vehicle-to-Load functionality on GT-Line S models, with Vehicle-to-Grid capability available when supported regionally. An optional heat pump is offered too, improving efficiency and range in colder weather.

Design & Interior: Practical, Premium, and Packed With Tech

The EV4 follows Kia’s new design direction, featuring a clean, tapered front end that mirrors the styling cues of the EV3 and EV9. The rear treatment is particularly distinctive: the hatchback model uses an upright C-pillar and a pronounced roof spoiler to create a bold, almost architectural look, while the fastback adopts a smoother, coupe-like profile for a more elegant silhouette.

Inside, Kia has prioritised space, clarity, and ease of use. A panoramic digital display stretches across the dashboard, merging a 12.3-inch driver screen, a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a dedicated 5.3-inch climate control panel. Physical climate buttons remain in place for quick adjustments, while touch-sensitive shortcut keys make navigating the software noticeably easier than in many rivals. Features like the sliding centre console, ambient lighting, and a rotating armrest all help elevate the overall cabin experience, giving it a premium feel that’s impressive at this price point.

Boot space is another strong advantage. The hatchback offers 435 litres, while the fastback increases that figure to 490 litres thanks to its extended rear design. Both versions provide more cargo room than cars like the VW ID.3 and Nissan Leaf, though the higher loading lip may require a bit more effort when lifting heavier items.

Cost Considerations: Strong Value in a Crowded Segment

Irish pricing starts from €39,940 for the entry-level Earth 2 trim, and goes up to €51,250 for the GT-Line. Even the long-range variant remains attractively positioned given how much range and technology it delivers.

Standard equipment is impressive for this segment, with features such as the dual-screen infotainment setup, adaptive cruise control, a parking camera, heated front seats, LED headlights, and alloy wheels included from the outset. When you combine its range, design, and technology, the EV4 has all the ingredients to become one of the best-value electric hatchbacks available.

Verdict: A Smart Alternative for the Non-SUV Driver

The Kia EV4 marks a notable shift in the brand’s EV strategy. Rather than building only SUV-shaped electric cars, Kia is giving buyers a meaningful choice in body style, something many manufacturers have stepped away from. With solid range, a well-designed interior, impressive tech, and sensible pricing, the EV4 is shaping up to be a compelling option for families and commuters who don’t want an SUV.

Whether consumers will embrace a return to hatchbacks and fastbacks remains to be seen, but Kia’s confidence is clear, and the EV4 might just be the car that proves them right.