Kia Introduces the EV4, an Affordable Electric Sedan Aimed at the U.S. Market

Kia unveiled its 2026 EV4 sedan at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, marking its first global electric sedan and targeting buyers seeking a more budget-friendly EV.

It’s uncertain whether U.S. consumers will embrace a sedan, and Kia isn’t fully banking on it just yet. The EV4 is already on sale in South Korea and is expected to arrive in Europe by the end of the year. U.S. sales are projected to begin in late 2025 or early 2026, according to a Kia spokesperson.

Kia targets budget-conscious EV buyers with the EV4

Affordability is the EV4’s main selling point. With decent range, a well-equipped interior, and modern tech, the EV4 could provide consumers with a compelling alternative. While official U.S. pricing hasn’t been announced, estimates suggest it may start around $35,000 — putting it in direct competition with the Tesla Model 3. Kia America VP of Sales Eric Watson confirmed that price range to TechCrunch.

Kia aims to make EVs accessible to all

Kia’s chief designer, Tom Kearns, said on Wednesday that most EVs tend to be priced on the higher end of the spectrum, but Kia’s mission is to make electric driving more accessible. “Our ultimate goal is to bring electrification to everyone,” he noted.

That’s the thinking behind the EV4 — a uniquely styled, tech-focused sedan that remains affordable despite offering many of the advanced features found in Kia’s premium EV6 and EV9 models.

Still, for U.S. buyers, that competitive pricing might be at risk. Former President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariff on imported vehicles could significantly raise the cost of the EV4, which Kia intends to manufacture in South Korea ahead of its U.S. debut in early 2026. With trade policies in flux, the final impact on pricing remains uncertain.

Kia’s VP of Sales, Eric Watson, mentioned that the company is considering shifting EV4 production to the U.S. Kia already produces the EV6 and EV9 at its West Point, Georgia facility, alongside battery partner SK On.

However, Kia America’s VP of Product Planning, Orth Hedrick, pointed out that even with U.S. production and domestic batteries, many components remain subject to tariffs. “It’s not great for business,” he said, adding that the company is hopeful for changes in policy over the summer.

Despite those hurdles, the EV4 offers plenty of appeal. The base model comes with a 58.3 kWh battery offering a range of 235 miles, while the “Wind” and “GT-Line” trims get a larger 81.4 kWh battery capable of up to 330 miles — on par with some of today’s leading EVs.

Streamlined design helps maximize range and functionality

Aerodynamics played a major role in achieving that range; the EV4 boasts a drag coefficient of 0.23, matching the Tesla Model 3. Both battery versions power a front-mounted 150 kW motor, and the car supports V2L4 tech, allowing users to power laptops or other electronics straight from the vehicle’s battery.

DC fast charging brings the battery from low to 80% in about 30 minutes, and Kia has placed the NACS charging port on the front passenger side for easier access.

Kia also highlighted the new i-Pedal 3.0 system, which enhances regenerative braking and lets drivers control deceleration using just the accelerator pedal — giving more freedom and efficiency in stop-and-go driving.

And then there’s the styling…

Kia aims to blend bold design with EV efficiency

Kearns explained that with the 2026 EV4, Kia saw a chance to break away from the typical EV design approach, which often puts efficiency above visual appeal. The goal was to create something that stood out—both in performance and personality.

And from up close, the EV4 definitely brings a unique style—think “business in the front, party in the back.” From the front, it features a low-slung nose, a long-tail silhouette, and a fastback roofline reminiscent of a classic sports car. In the rear, vertical taillights, a split roof spoiler, and a sculpted bumper lend the EV4 a futuristic, aerodynamic flair.

Inside, the EV4 keeps things sleek and modern. The minimalist, tech-forward cabin includes a two-spoke steering wheel, dynamic ambient lighting with 64 color options, and a floating interface that merges two 12.3-inch displays with a five-inch climate control screen. It comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless entertainment and navigation.

Like other Kia EVs, the EV4 supports over-the-air software updates, enabling users to unlock new features and personalize their experience—even adding themed cockpit visuals, like repping your favorite NBA team.

Tech conveniences extend to access and interaction. Drivers can unlock and start the EV4 using Kia’s digital key on their smartphones, while an AI-powered assistant helps manage in-car functions, plan routes, and respond to voice commands with natural language processing.

The EV4 also comes loaded with standard driver-assistance tech. Kia’s Highway Driving Assist adjusts speed to posted limits and helps maintain safe following distances. Other ADAS features include forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping, remote smart parking, driver attention alerts, and hands-on steering wheel detection.

Read the original article on: TechCrunch

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