Kia K4 First Generation (2025-present)

Single generation since 2025 on Kia's K3 platform shared with Hyundai Elantra (CN7). Built at Kia Pesquería, Mexico at the Hyundai-Kia joint plant — same plant building the Tucson and the K4's predecessor (the Forte). The K4 replaces the Forte in Kia's US lineup as part of the brand's transition to the 'K-series' naming convention (K5 replaced Optima, K8 replaced Cadenza globally, K3/K4 in some markets, etc.). Sharp-edged angular styling is intentionally dramatic — Kia design chief Karim Habib has been pushing increasingly bold geometric design language across the lineup. Two engines: 2.0L MPI Smartstream I4 (147 hp / 132 lb-ft, IVT continuously variable transmission) on LX / LXS / EX / GT-Line trims, and 1.6L turbo I4 (190 hp / 195 lb-ft, 8-speed wet dual-clutch automatic — DCT) on GT-Line Turbo only. FWD only — no AWD option offered (matches Elantra pattern, vs Civic / Corolla which also no-AWD-only). The 1.6T GT-Line Turbo is the warm pick: 190 hp / 8-DCT / sport-tuned suspension / 18-inch alloys / Brembo-style red-painted brake calipers (cosmetic — actual brakes are conventional), positioned against Civic Sport / Corolla SE / Jetta GLI Plus. 0-60 in approximately 7.0 sec on GT-Line Turbo, ~8.5 sec on 2.0L IVT. K4 5-door hatch is sold globally (called 'K4 Hatch') but US gets sedan-only for 2025-2026 model years. Cabin: dual 12.3-inch displays (12.3-inch driver display + 12.3-inch central touchscreen) standard mid-trim and up — Kia's most ambitious cabin tech in the compact segment. Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, available 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio (GT-Line Turbo / EX). Standard Kia Safety Suite (Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Following Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert). Trims: LX (~$22k base), LXS (~$24k volume), EX (~$26k mid), GT-Line (~$25k cosmetic sport), GT-Line Turbo (~$28k 1.6T). The K4 launch has been well-received — reviewers praise the sharp design, cabin tech, and 1.6T performance, while criticizing the IVT on the 2.0L for the typical CVT rubber-banding behavior. Mexico build raises tariff considerations but qualifies under USMCA. Kia 10/100k powertrain warranty.