All-Electric 2026 Kia EV4 Makes U.S. Debut at New York International Auto Show

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Apr 16, 2025, 10:00 ET

Kia's first all-electric global sedan
'Opposites United' design philosophy blends nature and humanity for a modern and expressive appearance
Two high voltage battery options: 58.3 kWh (Light) and 81.4 kWh long-range (Wind, GT-Line); the EV4 Wind has a Kia-est. 330 miles of all-electric range (AER)¹
10 to 80 percent state of charge with DC fast-charging² in just 29 or 31 minutes (depending on battery size) through a 400V EV dedicated platform with a built-in North American Charging Standard (NACS) port
Kia's i-Pedal 3.0³ variable regenerative braking
Available Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)⁴ capability for compatible electronics including laptops and lighting
Available Digital Key 2.0⁵ and other advanced features and technology target a new generation of drivers
Nearly 30-inch total combined widescreen display⁶ headlines connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) to enhance in-car entertainment and connectivity experience
Robust Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)⁷ suite includes standard Highway Driving Assist (HDA)⁸
U.S. launch of Kia EV4 expected early 2026

NEW YORK, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia America today unveiled the all-new 2026 EV4 sedan at the New York International Auto Show. The compact EV4 effectively strengthens Kia's electrified vehicle portfolio and aims to broaden widespread EV appeal and adoption through a blend of innovation, bold design, technology, range and flexibility that meets a diverse range of customer needs. The EV4 is Kia's first global EV sedan.

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All-electric 2026 Kia EV4 makes U.S. debut at New York International Auto Show.

All-electric 2026 Kia EV4 makes U.S. debut at New York International Auto Show. The compact EV4 effectively strengthens Kia’s electrified vehicle portfolio and aims to broaden widespread EV appeal and adoption. Through a blend of bold design, innovation, technology, extended all-electric range and flexibility, the all-new Kia EV4 represents a new paradigm in EV accessibility.

Based on a 400V Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which underpins multiple EV models from Kia, the versatile and practical EV4 is a well-rounded compact offering for urban and suburban dwellers. The EV4 offers a fresh take on traditional sedan design, introducing a new typology and expanding options in an EV market dominated by CUVs and SUVs.

"The EV4 makes all-electric ownership accessible for those customers who are seeking a more practical and affordable option on the EV landscape while still desiring an advanced, technology-driven in-car experience," said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America. "The arrival of the EV4 underscores Kia's overall efforts to enhance the appeal of electric mobility to a wider audience -- an audience that's been witnessing the excitement around EVs for quite some time and are now ready to experience the outstanding benefits for themselves."

The EV4 is expected to be available in three trim levels – Light, Wind and GT-Line. The sedan is being produced at Kia's Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO Plant in South Korea. Sales for the U.S. are planned for the first quarter of 2026.

Design, Outside and Inside
Inspired by Kia's 'Opposites United' design philosophy, the all-new all-electric compact sedan features contrasts found across nature and the human world, sharing the same fundamental design language as that of the ground-breaking Kia EV6 and EV9 models. Establishing a new typology, the sedan combines a low nose, long-tail silhouette, and fastback roofline for a unique and sporty profile.

The face of the EV4 is modern and expressive with vertical headlamps and Kia's signature Star Map lighting which has become synonymous with the brand's electrified lineup. Available small cube LED headlights with Dynamic Welcome Lights are unique to the segment. And a new interpretation of Kia's Tiger Face gives EV4 a bold and tech-inspired personality.

At the back, the vertical taillights, two-piece roof spoiler and sleek bumper design echo the front-end styling and emphasize the car's rear presence and width. The EV4's planted stance with either standard 17-inch aero wheels (Light/Wind) or 19-inch spoke-type wheels (GT-Line) gives it an athletic and sure-footed appearance. Other than larger wheels, the EV4 GT-line features exclusive design elements to create a more visually striking package.

Just as 'Opposites United' brings together the exterior of the EV4, Kia's progressive design language fuses nature with human-centric and industrial themes throughout the cabin space. The modern interior also brings forth unexpected contrasts in form, color and material.

Headlined by a free-floating interface and two-spoke steering wheel, the interior boasts an open layout, appealing to customers who view simplicity and usability as plus-side characteristics when transitioning from internal combustion engine (ICE) cars to EVs. Enhancing practicality, the EV4 cabin focuses on comfort, space and convenience, high-quality materials, and an impressive amount of passenger and cargo space. The cabin experience is further elevated by available 64-color dynamic ambient lighting.

Powertrain and Performance
Built on Kia's dedicated 400V E-GMP platform, the Kia EV4 offers a choice of two battery options: a standard 58.3 kWh battery (Light) or long-range 81.4 kWh battery (Wind, GT-Line). Both battery configurations provide power to a front-mounted 150 kW motor. The front wheel-drive (FWD) EV4 Light and Wind models have an all-electric Kia-estimated range¹ of 235 miles and 330 miles, respectively.

To enhance both performance and efficiency, Kia prioritized aerodynamics. Airflow enhancements include a full underbody cover to help the movement of air beneath the vehicle. The result is a drag coefficient as low as 0.23 Cd.

In terms of DC fast-charging², the EV4 is capable of charging from 10 to 80 percent charge in an estimated 29 minutes for the 58.3 kWh (Light) battery and 31 minutes for the 81.4 kWh (Wind, GT-Line) battery. For easy accessibility, the standard NACS charging port is located on the front passenger side.

On pavement, the EV4 benefits from advanced chassis engineering aimed at delivering a high level of ride comfort and refinement as well as engaging driving dynamics. The front suspension is defined by an EV-tuned MacPherson strut design and the rear suspension is a multi-link geometry. Key areas of the vehicle body were stiffened to further enhance the EV4's agility and cornering prowess.

Kia's latest i-Pedal 3.0 system³ helps drivers to smoothly control the speed of the vehicle and bring it to a complete stop using only the accelerator pedal. This feature works in tandem with EV4's adaptive Smart Regenerative Braking function to help recapture energy otherwise lost when brakes are applied. The i-Pedal 3.0 system also now works in reverse and the EV4's i-Pedal Memory function reverts to the last-used i-Pedal setting when the car restarts.

Upping practicality and flexibility, the EV4 offers the many benefits of V2L⁴ functionality. V2L⁴ is designed to allow the vehicle to manage the flow of electricity from the vehicle to compatible external devices, including a variety of laptops, lighting, and smaller electronics.

Convenience and Connectivity
The EV4 brings together an abundance of innovative content to deliver on the promise of convenience and connectivity. These benefits come to fruition even before anyone climbs into the vehicle thanks to Kia's available Digital Key 2.0.⁵ Providing simple access via a compatible smartphone or mobile device, this innovative feature allows remote functions such as door lock and unlock, and climate controls, from the comfort of home, office or on approach.⁹

The EV4's nearly 30-inch total combined wide-screen display⁶ – comprised of dual 12.3-inch screens and five-inch climate display – serves as the face of Kia's connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC). This tech-forward interface sets a high watermark for the in-car content experience, with connectivity and entertainment features that may be upgraded remotely with software enhancements delivered through over-the-Air (OTA) updates. Additionally, this innovative setup enables customers to apply available display themes across the cockpit, such as their favorite NBA team, for a personalized cockpit aesthetic. The EV4 also offers wireless Apple Carplay¹⁰ and Android Auto.¹¹

The driver can experience a more immersive relationship with the EV4 by way of Kia's AI Assistant.¹² This system utilizes machine learning to achieve a higher level of organic interaction and greater voice recognition between the driver and the vehicle.

Other key comfort and convenience features include standard dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear A/C vents, acoustic windshield, and available heated/ventilated front seats¹³ with driver side memory and heated steering wheel.

Advanced Driver Assistance Technology
The EV4 offers a robust suite of ADAS features, including standard Highway Driving Assist (HDA)⁸, which is designed to use speed limit information from the navigation system on controlled access road (such as state highways, U.S. highways, and federal interstates). Under certain conditions, it automatically adjusts the vehicle's set speed to match the posted speed limit (if initially set to the speed limit) and maintains distance from the vehicle detected in front.

To further elevate roadway awareness for the driver, the EV4 has available features such as Driver Attention Warning¹⁴, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist¹⁵, Lane Following Assist¹⁶, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist¹⁷ and Remote Smart Parking Assist.¹⁸

Standard Hands-On Detection (HOD) senses contact between the driver's hands and the steering wheel to determine if the driver has their hands on the steering wheel, allowing for activation and deactivation of ADAS warnings.

Kia America – about us
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*.

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert

* Select trims of the 2025 all-electric EV6 and EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

¹ Electric range shown is not an official EPA estimate and is based on preliminary manufacturer estimates on a vehicle with a full charge. Range will vary and depends on a number of factors, including battery age, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, weather, road/traffic conditions, ambient temperature, driving habits, options, and cargo. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. Estimated AER for GT-Line not available.
² Actual charge will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature and your vehicle's condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. Frequent use of DC fast charging can negatively impact battery performance and durability, and Kia recommends minimizing use of DC fast charging.
³ The i-Pedal system is not a substitute for safe driving. Do not solely rely on the system to stop the vehicle or avoid collisions. Always drive safely and use caution.
⁴ V2L requires the purchase of separately sold additional equipment and may not be compatible with all devices. V2L can be used until a 20 percent battery state of charge. Refer to the vehicle's Owner's Manual for warnings and instructions.
⁵ Kia Digital Key 2.0 requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. Normal cellular service rates may apply when using a smart device.
⁶ Comprised of a 12.3-in. instrument display, 5-in. climate display, and 12.3-in. touchscreen infotainment display.
⁷ When engaged, ADAS systems are not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
⁸ When engaged, Highway Driving Assist is not a substitute for safe driving, may not detect all objects surrounding the vehicle, and only functions on certain federal highways. Always drive safely and use caution.
⁹ Purchase/lease of a 2025 Kia with Kia Connect includes a complimentary 3-year subscription starting from new vehicle retail sale/lease date as recorded by the dealer. After your complimentary 3-year Kia Connect subscription expires, continued access to the full suite of Kia Connect services available on your Kia will require a paid subscription at the then-current subscription rate, or your use of certain Kia Connect features may immediately terminate. Use of Kia Connect is subject to agreement to the Kia Connect Privacy Policy (available at https://owners.kia.com/us/en/privacy-policy.html) and Terms of Service (available at https://owners.kia.com/us/en/terms-of-service.html). Complimentary Kia Connect subscription is transferable to subsequent owner during the original Kia Connect service term. Only use Kia Connect when safe to do so. Kia Connect may currently be unavailable for some Model Year 2022 and newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts; please see the Kia Connect Terms of Service for more information. Kia Access App is available from the Apple® App Store® or Google Play Store™. Kia America, Inc. reserves the right to change or discontinue Kia Connect at any time without prior notification or incurring any future obligation. Message and data rates may apply. Cellular and GPS coverage is required to use most features. Kia Connect features may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. For more on details and limitations, visit https://www.kia.com or your authorized Kia dealer. Apple® and App Store® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
¹⁰ Apple CarPlay®: Apple® and Apple CarPlay® are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple CarPlay® runs on your smartphone cellular data service. Normal data rates will apply.
¹¹ Android Auto™: Vehicle user interface is a product of Google, and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android-compatible smartphone running Android™ 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC.
¹² Kia Connect subscription required. Use of the feature is subject to the Kia Connect Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. May be currently unavailable for vehicles purchased or sold in Massachusetts that are not eligible for Kia Connect. Kia does not make any warranties about the accuracy of the information provided. Distracted driving can result in a loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.
¹³ Use extreme caution when using the seat warmers to avoid burns. Refer to the Owner's Manual for more safety information.
¹⁴ When engaged, Driver Attention Warning is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all instances of inattentive driving practices. Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution.
¹⁵ When engaged, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects in front of vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
¹⁶ When engaged, Lane Following Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
¹⁷ Intelligent Speed Limit Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may only function under certain conditions. Always drive safely and use caution.
¹⁸ Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 requires driver engagement and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Please see the Owner's Manual for limitations, warnings, and instructions.