Kia has announced an all-new compact sedan, the K4, which replaces the Forte in 2025. The 2025 Kia K4 adopts the design elements that are increasingly evident in the Korean automaker's latest cars and SUVs.
The new K4's design vastly differs from the outgoing Forte, offering a fastback-style silhouette, smaller grille, T-shaped headlights, and L-shaped taillights. Inside, the look is clean and minimalistic, with a sizeable multi-information screen spanning more than half the dashboard.
The K4’s drivetrain options are similar to those in the outgoing Forte, including a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The new K4 will be available in five trim levels: LX, LXS, EX, GT-Line, and GT-Line Turbo.
Drama seems to be the main inspiration for the 2025 Kia K4. Drawing on the automaker's current design philosophy, "Opposites United," the K4 blends harsh angles with a striking silhouette to offer a unique compact sedan.
At the front, a sizeable hood and a small rectangular grille flow into two large T-shaped headlights reaching the edge of the front fascia, contributing to the K4’s overall broad look. The headlamps reside in the vertical portion of the headlight assembly, and Kia integrated the daytime running lights into the horizontal chrome strips.
The fastback-style roofline adds to the distinct new motif that Kia is implementing across its lineup. Angular lines over the front wheel arches lead from the headlights to the two-toned sideview mirrors and flow down to smooth door panels. The rear door handles are no longer on the actual door but hidden near the rear window, which emphasizes the fastback proportions of the K4. The car’s rear boasts a large connected L-shaped taillight spanning the entire trunk width.
Inside the K4, there’s a wide, three-section display stretching nearly 30 inches across. A 12.3-inch instrument display faces the driver. Immediately next to it resides a 5-inch climate control display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Below the combined display, you'll find a volume control knob, temperature control buttons, and other physical buttons, all underlined by the climate control vents.
The K4 will be available with a new Slate Green interior color. The center console contains the gear selector, start/stop button, two cupholders, multiple USB ports, optional seat heating and cooling buttons, and covered storage space.
Acknowledging consumer demand for creature comforts in lower-priced, entry-level models, Kia offers the new K4 with optional heated and ventilated front seats, driver seat memory functions, and spacious accommodations for a compact sedan. The rear seat in the K4 provides 37.3 inches of headroom and 38 inches of legroom. There’s also 14.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk.
The 2025 Kia K4 comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) drives the front wheels. A turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 190 hp and 195 pound-feet of torque is also available. It works with a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission. The upgraded powertrain comes with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and sport pedals.
K4 GT-Line and GT-Line Turbo models feature an upgraded suspension for sportier handling.
Kia offers a wide range of standard safety features on the new K4, including traffic-sign recognition with speed-limit assist, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and intersection turn assistance.
Optional safety features include automatic emergency steering, blind-spot warning, rear automatic braking, and a surround-view camera.
Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) operating system, which debuted on the EV9, will be available on the K4. The ccNC system offers easy navigation to frequently used apps like voice memos, radio, and a GPS navigation system.
Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto are standard on all trim levels, displayed on the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Audiophiles will appreciate the optional Harman Kardon premium audio system.
With the available second-generation digital key feature, you no longer need a physical key to lock, unlock, and drive your Kia. Instead, you can use your compatible smartphone as your virtual key. Owners can share their virtual key with friends and family via text message, provided they have a compatible smartphone.
The 2025 Kia K4 offers dramatic styling, premium options, and a strong 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty, helping it compete with other popular compact cars such as the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jetta.
Kia is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of March 27, 2024, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Zac Johnson is a lifelong car enthusiast pursuing his dream of becoming an automotive journalist. He is a social media manager, contributor to JDPower.com, and founder of Best Daily Drivers.
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