The Kia K4 debuted for the 2025 model year, replacing the Kia Forte as the brand’s compact sedan offering. Now, the sporty, stylish, and practical 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback has been unveiled at the New York International Auto Show.
“After the overwhelmingly positive response to last year’s hatchback teaser in New York, we knew we had struck a chord with car enthusiasts and consumers alike,” Kia America COO and Executive Vice President Steven Center said. “Built on the success of the K4 sedan, this hatchback isn’t just about style – it’s about attitude. With available turbo power, a sport-tuned suspension, a more compact footprint, and exceptional versatility, the K4 Hatchback is designed for those who crave excitement at every turn.”
The Kia K4 Hatchback has the same powertrain options as the sedan. The base engine is a 2.0L I4, making 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The more exciting option is a turbocharged 1.6L I4 producing 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The base engine is linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission, while the turbo engine employs an 8-speed auto. Sorry, no manual. One slight mechanical difference between the hatch and sedan is a unique sport-tuned suspension system for the GT-Line and GT-Line Turbo K4 Hatchback.
Kia claims best-in-class rear headroom and legroom in the K4 Hatchback. It also boasts impressive cargo space of 22.2 cubic feet behind the second row. For reference, that’s more cargo room than the Buick Envista.
Since Chevy doesn’t sell compact cars in North America, the closest GM rival to the Kia K4 Hatchback is the Chevy Trax. Yes, we know the Trax is a crossover, and the K4 is a hatchback. However, the Chevy Trax has a lower starting price than the Kia K4 sedan, and the hatchback will likely be pricier than the sedan. As the line blurs between hatchbacks and small crossovers, the Trax and K4 Hatchback will compete in a similar field of affordable, entry-level cars from mainstream brands.
The 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback is slated to arrive in American showrooms in late 2025. Its more direct rivals in the compact hatch world will be the hatchback versions of the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3.
Comments
is this yellow cab made by GM a good taxi in new york ?
It is no Chevy Trax competitor! Chevy Trax is not a hatchback!
Confusing. Crossover or Hatchback? They both have a hatch. The Buick Envista crossover is much more attractive than this Kia.
Looks more like a Subaru.
Which one looks like a subaru?????? SUB the right word for it
I love my Stinger and unfortunately the Stinger was discontinued with no replacement unfortunately. I love having a lift back and I guess this is as good as it gets with Kia, but it’s no Stinger😢