Kia goes back to basics, adding a petrol-powered hatchback to its ever-expanding range
After a run of impressive EV launches recently, Kia is back with a more conventional car that effectively replaces the long-running Ceed hatchback.
Electric vehicle sales may be flourishing, but official SMMT data shows that petrol-engine cars still account for more than 40% of registrations – closer to 50% if you add mild hybrids.
So, it’s no wonder that a brand with such a wide range of cars can’t ignore this sector. Then there’s the fact that not everyone wants an SUV.
The all-new K4 isn’t just a good-looking hatchback, it represents everything we’ve come to expect from the South Korean brand, delivering practicality, technology, safety, value for money, a decent drive, and peace of mind.
Priced from £26,045, the K4’s rivals include the Vauxhall Astra, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Peugeot 308 and Volkswagen Golf.
A little longer and wider than a Golf, the K4 is very much a Kia from the front, but sports a unique profile, partly down to its long wheelbase. It’s also lower than most hatches, giving it a wide, planted stance.
At launch you can choose between a 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild hybrid with 113bhp or a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol (147bhp or 177bhp). Apparently, more electrification will follow.
A six-speed manual is an option, but only with the smaller engine in entry-level spec. Other than that, it’s a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox all the way.
The 113bhp 1.0-litre is the most economical at 49.6mpg (CO2 emissions 129g/km), but the slowest over 0-62mph, taking 12.2 seconds. The most powerful version (the 177bhp 1.6-litre) hits 62mph in 8.4 seconds (152g/km).
It doesn’t disappoint inside either, where there’s loads of space, especially for rear passengers. Boot capacity is excellent too, at least in the larger-engined models, at 438 litres (rising to 1,217 with the rear seats folded).
However, boot capacity shrinks with the mild-hybrid powertrain (down to 328 litres and 1,107 litres) because the battery is mounted below the boot floor. If you need more boot space, a Sportswagon (estate) version follows soon.
Up front, Kia’s created a nice balance between screens and physical controls. A 12.3-inch driver’s display and 12.3-inch central touchscreen sandwich a 5.3-inch climate control touchscreen.
Below there are physicals buttons and switches for essentials such as climate control, audio volume, plus useful short-cuts for the touchscreen above.
The infotainment system is tried and tested on Kia models, so it’s responsive and easy on the eye. My only slight gripe is that the steering wheel sometimes obscures the small climate control screen.
Other than that, build quality and finish are good, and though there are some hard plastic surfaces. Overall, the cabin feels classy and looks smart, and the more you spend, the more goodies you get, such as cooling seats.
I know I’m fussy when it comes to driving positions, but I would have liked to sit a little lower. As it is, it’s fine. More importantly, there’s superb leg and headroom for everyone.
I tested an entry-level (Pure spec) manual 1.0-litre and a top-of-the-range 1.6-litre GT-Line S.
The thrummy three-cylinder in the former is surprisingly refined. More nippy than fast, it’s an entertaining little engine that has to be worked fairly hard if you’re in a hurry.
It’s at its happiest ambling along, while the manual gearbox is light with a fairly long throw, but smooth enough, even if it is an unusual option in a new car these days.
The extra power from the bigger engine is welcome, delivering a more relaxed drive, though the auto box is a tad lethargic, which means the K4 can be slow to react when accelerating away from a standstill.
That said, ride comfort is decent from the soft-suspension set-up, and the K4 only becomes unsettled on the poorest road surfaces.
The steering is light and direct, and when pushed there’s some body lean, but it’s fairly well controlled. Grip is good, though the car is light, so expect some front wheelspin when accelerating on slippery surfaces.
Ultimately, it’s not the most dynamic car to drive, but its other attributes more than make up for it.
Verdict: The Kia K4 hatchback is a refreshing change to the succession of homogeneous SUVs hitting the market. Likeable and distinctively styled, it’s an honest, spacious, well-equipped all-rounder, blessed with Kia’s generous seven-year warranty.
