Kia has declassified the design of the compact K4 sedan a week before its full premiere

Kia K4 will replace the third generation Cerato/Forte model, the official premiere will take place on March 27 at the New York Auto Show, since the USA is the main market for this model.

Kia, part of the Hyundai Motor Group, is striving to unify the names of its models, because previously there was some confusion with them. For example, the predecessor of the Kia K4 is called by three names at once depending on the market — Cerato, Forte and K3, while the name K3 was last year given to the successor of the Rio model, and the name K4 was used last decade by a sedan made specifically for the Chinese market.

The new Kia K4 will be a global model, but it is expected that its main consumer will be the United States, since the Kia Forte sold well here last year: 123,953 units were sold, which is 14.3% more than the result of 2022.

The Kia press service calls the K4 a compact sedan, although in terms of dimensions (they have not yet been disclosed) it will most likely reach the European D-class, and its rear is sloping, without a clearly defined step, that is, this is more of a fastback than a sedan . The stern is generally the most interesting place of this model: there is a rather unusual flow of volumes into each other and somewhat clumsy L-shaped lights, which are echoed by the reflectors on the bumper, which also seem far-fetched. However, complex plastics and excessive detailing are a feature of all the latest Kia models.

The outer rear door handles are camouflaged under the side C-pillars, which, apparently, should give the Kia K4 a coupe-like appearance. The belt line flows into the plump wheel arches, and the deep stampings above the sills rhyme with them. The front end has sweeping headlights reminiscent of a flying bird and a strongly protruding lip at the bottom of the bumper. By the way, the not yet presented serial electric fastback Kia EV4, announced last year with a concept of the same name, will be made in approximately the same vein.

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The interior of the Kia K4 makes a much less controversial impression than the exterior; it can be called an example of a good balance between digitalization and analog ergonomics: for quick microclimate adjustments and quick access to the main sections of the multimedia system menu, large physical keys are provided that can be used blindly. There are also physical keys and controls on the steering wheel, center console and door panels, while in general the Kia K4 interior does not seem overloaded — on the contrary, it gives the impression of being extremely laconic. The automatic transmission selector is a traditional massive lever on the central tunnel with fixed positions, which is a pleasure to use. In general, we can safely praise Kia’s interior designers — well done.

Technical characteristics of the Kia K4 and others Details will likely be announced next week as part of the full premiere in New York — stay tuned to our website for updates.