Kia K4

The K4 is Kia's compact sedan replacing the Forte for 2025 model year — Kia continues its 'K-series' nomenclature shift (K5 replaced Optima, K8 replaced Cadenza globally, etc.). Single generation. Built at Kia Pesquería, Mexico alongside the Kia Tucson sister at the Hyundai-Kia plant. Underlying K3 platform shared with Hyundai Elantra. Sharp-edged angular styling that's a dramatic departure from the Forte's softer lines — Kia leaning hard into bold design language. Two engines: 2.0L MPI Smartstream I4 (147 hp / 132 lb-ft, IVT continuously variable transmission) and 1.6L turbo I4 (190 hp / 195 lb-ft, 8-speed dual-clutch automatic — DCT, only on GT-Line Turbo trim). FWD only — no AWD option. Trims: LX (base), LXS (volume), EX, GT-Line (cosmetic sport — 2.0L), GT-Line Turbo (1.6T performance — only turbo trim). The K4 is also a 5-door hatchback in some markets (called K4 Hatch), but the US gets sedan-only as of 2025-2026. The 1.6T GT-Line Turbo is the warm pick — 190 hp / 8-DCT competing with Civic Sport / Corolla SE / Jetta GLI Plus. Cabin: dual 12.3-inch displays standard mid-trim and up, wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, available 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio. Kia's standard ADAS suite: Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Following Assist, Smart Cruise. Pricing $22k-$28k. The K4 has been well-received at launch — sharp styling and cabin tech significantly ahead of segment competitors.