Kia K4
Kia
Photo: Dinkun Chen / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
Kia K4: The Bold Compact That Replaces the Forte
The K4 is Kia's compact car, succeeding the Forte with sharper styling, a roomier cabin and updated technology in both sedan and hatchback forms.
Introduced for the 2025 model year, the K4 replaces the long-running Forte as Kia's entry into the compact class. It adopts Kia's bolder modern design language, with sharp lines and distinctive lighting that give the affordable model a more upscale, dramatic appearance.
The K4 grows slightly over the Forte, improving interior and rear-seat space, and brings a more sophisticated cabin with larger screens and updated technology. It launches as a sedan, with a sportier hatchback joining the lineup to broaden its appeal among younger buyers.
Powertrains follow the practical compact-car formula, with an efficient naturally aspirated engine and a more powerful turbocharged option in sportier trims. Competitively priced, the K4 takes on staples like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra.
Frequently asked questions about Kia K4
What does the Kia K4 replace?
The K4 replaces the Kia Forte as the brand's compact car, with bolder styling, more space and updated technology.
Is the Kia K4 a sedan or a hatchback?
It launches as a sedan, with a sportier hatchback body style joining the lineup to broaden its appeal.
What engines does the K4 offer?
It offers an efficient naturally aspirated engine in most trims and a more powerful turbocharged option in sportier versions.
Is the Kia K4 electric?
No, the K4 is a conventional gasoline-powered compact car, not an electric vehicle.
What does the Kia K4 compete with?
It competes with compact-class staples such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra.