Kia Gives First Look at All-New 2025 K4 Ahead of NY Auto Show
Kia today revealed the design of its brand new K4 sedan with the intention to provide more details during the world premiere at the New York Auto Show in less than a week.
This next-generation compact sedan will serve as a direct replacement for the long-running Forte. It will also try to fill the void left by the upcoming departure of the K5 midsize sedan.
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The exterior is inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, and in particular the ‘Power to Progress’ pillar. It’s a completely different car from the Forte, that’s for sure. Kia designers refer to the collection of lines and shapes as ‘Twist Logic.’ Meanwhile, the longer stance and more athletic profile are emphasized by details such as the hidden rear door handles, giving the impression of a two-door coupe.
The vertical headlights combine with oversized T-shaped daytime running lights, the latter somewhat reminiscent of the lighting signature on the 2024 Sorento and 2025 Carnival.
The fastback-style K4 also features a long rear window and short trunk lid in a classic case of form over function. Squared-off taillights and a two-tone bumper treatment (which conceals the tailpipes) complete the look in the rear.
Kia has released a single shot of the interior, which definitely takes a page from the EV9 electric SUV. Consider the non-perfectly round steering wheel, the dual displays and the main dashboard. However, the controls right below the centre touchscreen in the K4 are physical buttons and not haptic controls.
For some strange reason, a butt-ugly shifter is still found on the console. Why didn’t Kia replace it with buttons, a rotary selector or even a shifter stalk on the steering column? We’ll have to ask Kia’s head of global design, Karim Habib, the next time we can speak with him.
Apparently, occupants can choose from a range of direct and indirect lighting options to illuminate the K4’s cabin, which is said to offer higher-quality materials and increased comfort. The selection of interior colours include Medium Gray, Slate Green, Canyon Brown and Onyx Black, but how many of those will be available in Canada has yet to be announced.
The Car Guide will be on hand for the premiere of the 2025 Kia K4 in New Yok on March 27, so we’ll have much more to share with you at that time including powertrain options. It’s a date.