Kia EV4 GT: A Sporty Electric Contender
Just days after unveiling the EV4, Kia is already generating buzz with a first look at the high-performance GT model. The EV4 GT is poised to be one of the most accessible electric sports cars on the market, and it could become Kia’s most powerful vehicle yet. But can it compete with the likes of the Tesla Model 3 Performance?
The Kia EV4 GT – a glimpse into the future of electric sports cars.
The EV4 is Kia’s foray into the electric sedan and hatchback market. During its EV Day, Kia presented four EV4 models, split into two sedan and two hatchback trims, each with a standard and GT-Line model, respectively. Now, the focus shifts to the exciting GT variant.
Remember the excitement surrounding the EV6 GT’s arrival in 2022? It was then lauded as “the most powerful Kia production vehicle ever.” With a robust 576 horsepower, the sporty EV6 GT can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. That’s a blistering pace that outshines many high-performance cars, and the EV6 GT had a starting price of just over $60,000.
The EV4 GT, however, is expected to be an even bigger hit. It could boast an even lower price tag, and potentially more power. Having been spotted in public for the first time, details on upgrades are starting to emerge. A video from HealerTV shows a camouflaged model undergoing testing in Korea, though an orange light on the bumper suggests it’s an export model.
The Kia EV4 GT-Line
At first glance, the EV4 GT appears similar to the GT-Line. Upon closer inspection, sporty wheels (possibly 20-inch) give it a profile reminiscent of the K8. The interior will feature Kia’s new ccNC (connected car Navigation Cockpit), which includes dual 12.3-inch driver display and infotainment screens, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Significant differences are expected to surface in both the interior and performance. Like other Kia GT models, the EV4 is anticipated to feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. Precise specifications will be announced closer to the official launch. The upgraded EV6 GT, launched in Korea in November, now delivers 641 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque (when Launch Control is active) thanks to improved front and rear electric motors. It also features redesigned front and rear bumpers, sport bucket seats with suede trim, and a heat pump (standard on all AWD trims).
The Kia EV4 interior.
The EV4 GT model will likely be priced in the $50,000 to $55,000 range, given that the EV4 will be positioned below the EV6 in Kia’s lineup. This is a compelling price point for the electric sports car market. The standard EV4 is expected to hit the market later this year, starting around $35,000 to $40,000. For comparison, the Tesla Model 3 Performance AWD starts at $54,990 with 510 horsepower, capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.
