New Kia EV4 revealed
Words by Mark Slack
The Kia EV4 is the Korean brand’s first all-electric C-segment hatchback, produced in Slovakia the long-range version is powered by an 81kWh battery that has up to 391 miles of range on a single charge, depending of course on driving style and conditions.
There is a 58kWh standard battery, and both battery options power a front-mounted 150kW motor, allowing the EV4 to accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds (7.4 seconds for the standard battery) and reach a top speed of 105mph.
A Fastback model joins the hatchback and features larger of the two battery options but shares the same motor as the hatchback, providing a maximum range of up to 388 miles. The Fastback has a luggage capacity of 490 litres. Both variants feature Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability for powering external devices and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology for energy sharing.
As with all new cars, irrespective of manufacturer, the EV4 comes equipped with a comprehensive advanced driver assistance system, or driver annoyance systems if you’re of a certain age and grumpiness! Using a network of cameras and radars, it constantly monitors its surroundings to help detect potential hazards.
There are three trim levels – Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S with prices starting from £34,695. Key features include heated front seats and steering wheel, 12” touchscreen navigation, rear parking camera, heated and powered folding door mirrors. The Kia App that unlocks the EV4 include remote vehicle access, driving insights, and maintenance tools. In addition, over-the-air (OTA) updates add to the functionality. A certain level of access is permanently included, some features are free for a period of time but once expired are part of paid subscription tiers.
Drivers can locate charging stations, monitor their charging sessions, and plan routes with designated charging stops using the Kia App. The latest update to the EV Route Planner enables users to specify a target charge level directly from the map view, for both their final destination and each selected charging stop throughout the journey.
The integrated Google Places provide navigation data regarding parking availability, operational hours, pricing, and user reviews. Furthermore, the EV4 is Kia’s first vehicle equipped with factory-installed online navigation, enabling customers to navigate with the latest map.
The EV4 also includes Digital Key 2, which allows owners to unlock the vehicle with a compatible smartphone or smartwatch instead of conventional keys. The Kia Digital Key also supports remote access sharing with others, such as family members or friends.
Words by Mark Slack
