Kia’s EV4 Shines in Urban Environments
Seoul, South Korea, a bustling metropolis with congested roads, provided the perfect backdrop to test Kia’s latest electric vehicle, the EV4 sedan. Our low-speed first drive experience highlighted the car’s comfortable ride, convenient technology, and accommodating interior, making it ideal for urban commuting.
The EV4’s dimensions – 186.2 inches long, 73.2 inches wide, and 58.3 inches tall – make it slightly larger than Kia’s K4 compact, with a 111.0-inch wheelbase. The rear seat offers surprising spaciousness, accommodating two adults with ease. The interior features twin 12.3-inch displays for gauges and infotainment, along with robust driver-assistance offerings, including adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist.
Performance and Handling
The 201-hp single-motor, front-wheel-drive EV4 we drove in Seoul proved perky enough for city driving and merging onto busy freeways. We estimate it accelerates to 60 mph in just over seven seconds. However, we noticed a distinct tug of torque steer under heavy acceleration. The ride compliance was exceptional, with the suspension effectively absorbing road imperfections.
The EV4 offers adjustable regenerative braking via paddles on the steering wheel, allowing for one-pedal driving or traditional braking. The car comes with either a 58-kWh or 81-kWh battery pack, with estimated ranges of 235 miles and 330 miles, respectively. Charging times are competitive, with a 10-80% charge taking 29-31 minutes at a DC station.
Conclusion
While pricing remains to be announced, the Kia EV4 shows promise as a comfortable, feature-rich compact EV. Its bold styling and robust features make it an attractive option for urban dwellers seeking an affordable electric vehicle with good range. A sportier GT model is expected, but the standard EV4 should satisfy most city drivers.
