Kia has entered the competitive electric sedan market with the 2026 EV4, marking the brand’s first all-electric passenger vehicle that isn’t an SUV. Positioned to rival the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal, the EV4 arrives in Australia with a distinctive design and a focus on range. This review covers the EV4’s key features, performance, and market positioning.
Design and Positioning
The EV4 stands out with its angular, futuristic aesthetic, diverging from conventional sedan designs. While some may see a spaceship or robotic companion, the EV4’s bold lines are designed to capture attention in a crowded EV segment.
Kia is targeting the $50,000 to $65,000 price bracket, aiming to compete directly with Tesla, BYD, and other established EV brands. Its dimensions – 4730mm long with a 2820mm wheelbase – suggest a spacious interior, blurring the line between compact and mid-size sedans.
Interior and Technology
The EV4’s cabin follows Kia’s minimalist trend, featuring dual 12.3-inch digital displays for the driver and infotainment system, alongside a 5.0-inch touch panel for climate control. A standout feature is the new Google Engine Search function integrated into the navigation system, making point-of-interest searches more intuitive.
Kia Connect Services provides over-the-air software updates and remote vehicle control via a smartphone app, backed by a seven-year complimentary subscription. Higher trims, like the GT-Line, offer “Premium Relaxation” seats with lounge recliner functionality, enhancing comfort for long journeys or charging stops.
Performance and Range
The EV4 boasts the longest range of any Kia EV currently available, with Long Range versions certified at 612km (WLTP). This doesn’t match Tesla Model 3’s range but is competitive within the market.
The GT-Line Long Range variant delivers a 0-100km/h acceleration of 7.4 to 7.8 seconds. While not class-leading, it provides sufficient performance for everyday driving. A faster, dual-motor GT version has been revealed overseas but is not yet confirmed for the Australian market.
Ride and Handling
Kia’s Australian chassis tuning program, led by Graeme Gambold, has significantly improved the EV4’s ride quality. The EV4 handles better than many luxury cars with air suspension, absorbing bumps and maintaining stability without feeling overly firm. Steering is fluid, and the suspension provides a balanced ride for both city and highway driving.
Driver assistance systems, including Highway Driving Assist and lane-keeping assist, are well-calibrated and intuitive, enhancing safety and convenience. The i-Pedal function allows for adaptive regenerative braking, with settings tailored to individual preferences.
Trims and Pricing
The 2026 Kia EV4 range starts at $49,990 plus on-road costs for the base Air model, topping out at $64,590 for the GT-Line. The EV4 Earth adds features like 19-inch wheels and upgraded upholstery, while the GT-Line includes projector LED headlights, a sunroof, and premium interior appointments.
Safety and Warranty
The EV4 has received four- and five-star safety ratings from Euro NCAP, though Australian ANCAP assessment is pending. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Kia offers a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with an eight-year, 160,000km high-voltage battery warranty. Pre-paid servicing plans are available for three, five, and seven years.
Final Verdict: The Kia EV4 represents a bold step into the electric sedan market, offering a distinctive design, competitive range, and refined driving experience. While it may not dominate in raw performance, its balance of features, comfort, and technology makes it a viable contender against established rivals like Tesla and BYD.
