Last week, after the Kia EV4 test drive event, I had the opportunity to take a personal test drive right away. As I mentioned in the event posting, even though it's a compact sedan, it offers spacious interior space comparable to larger models, a comfortable ride, and an attractive design. I want to give it high marks once again.
I must admit, the second-row seating in the EV4 felt even more comfortable than the higher-end EV6. Although the sedan design may limit headroom slightly, the extended trunk design provides ample legroom.
Compared to SUVs or crossover electric vehicles in the same class, the EV4 definitely offers a more spacious interior.
I also can't overlook the trunk space. Typically, fastback coupe sedans have a trunk that opens all the way to the rear window, but the EV4 features a trunk door that resembles classic coupes.
Thanks to this design, the EV4 can maximize second-row legroom while still achieving a trunk capacity of 490 liters.
You could easily fit two golf bags, and with some clever packing, you could even fit three golf bags and a duffel bag without a problem.
When placed side by side with the EV6, the EV4's size is impressive. In fact, looking at the specifications, the EV4 (4730 mm) is 35 mm longer than the EV6 (4695 mm).
Although the EV4 has a shorter wheelbase, it maximizes practicality by extending the trunk area. Seeing these practical aspects alongside the design, the unique advantages of the EV4 start to shine through.
The boomerang- or croissant-shaped taillights become more appealing the more you look at them. The slightly upward-angled rear end also adds a touch of sexiness. However, I personally feel a bit disappointed with the shape of the trunk spoiler.
Kia claims it designed the EV4 for optimal aerodynamics, but if I were the designer, I would have boldly removed the shark antenna and made that section a bit more pronounced.
The mixed opinions about the Genesis GV80 coupe’s rear design often stem from the trunk spoiler. It might have looked better either without a spoiler or with a gap like the Ferrari Purosangue.
Yet, the croissant-like taillights and the raised sections that resemble a puppy's ears add a cute touch.
Personal preferences aside, while I found the EV6's striking rear design somewhat unbalanced due to its cute front, the EV4 offers a sporty and stylish front that contrasts nicely with its adorable rear design.
Kia aims for the EV4's front design to become the standard family look for its EV series. The Tesla Model 3 is often mentioned as a competitor, but from the perspective of a Tesla owner, the EV4's spacious interior, comfortable ride, and various cutting-edge convenience features make it hard to compare.
I believe the differences in value are significant, especially when comparing the EV4, which starts in the low $30,000 range after considering 100% subsidies, to the Model 3 RWD, which is over $10,000 more expensive.
This past weekend, I drove over 200 miles, and I found that I could travel further than the estimated range on the trip computer. Even with the heater or air conditioning running, I easily exceeded 300 miles, and if I drove efficiently, I could potentially reach 370 miles.
Kia's electric vehicles pay close attention to various convenience options, after-sales service, and battery safety.
Recently, I recommended two options to a friend considering the Model 3 Highland: either choose the cost-effective EV4 or definitely take a test drive of the Polestar 4. The Genesis GV60 is also a good choice, but the price might be a bit high. If I didn't already own a Model Y, I would have chosen the Polestar 4, but when comparing it to the Model 3, the EV4 stands out.
Review ends here...
