Kia’s small sedan is stylish, practical, and one of America’s cheapest cars

The Kia K4 enters its second year with barely a change from the 2025 model and a price that still seems fair.

The base LX starts at $22,190, plus $1,195 for destination, an increase of just $200 from last year.

So if you’re bracing for a big price hike, relax: the K4 is virtually unchanged, offering plenty of features without breaking the bank.

Base trim motor

2L ICE CREAM

Base Trim Transmission

CVT

Basic transmission

Front wheel drive

Basic power

147 hp at 6,200 rpm

Basic trim torque

132 ft. lbs. at 4,500 rpm

Base trim fuel economy (city/highway/combined)

30/40/34 MPG

Do

Kia

Model

K4

Segment

Subcompact sedan

All versions seem like a good deal

Prices increase a bit as you go through the K4 versions, but it’s barely noticeable. The sleekly styled LXS starts at $24,485, just $300 more than last year.

The $25,485 EX adds real value with standard heated SynTex seats in front and a rear center armrest, making this small price increase worth it.

The GT-Line tops out at $26,485, retains the SynTex coating and replaces the base rear axle with a multi-link setup. Packed with handy features, this model seems to be the sweet spot for budget-conscious buyers.

Credit: Kia

At the top of the range is the GT-Line Turbo, and yes, it costs $200 more than a 2026 model.

For $29,385, you get a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 190 horsepower, a big step up from the 147 horsepower in other trims.

Add the premium paint and the only available option, a Tech Package with ambient lighting, surround-view camera and additional safety features, and you get a $32,180 compact sedan that’s packed with goodies.

Credit: Kia

Do you want more headroom and rear-seat cargo? No problem.

The 2026 K4 hatchback delivers, with segment-best rear legroom and 22.2 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the sedan’s 14.6.

It’s a spacious and practical alternative without losing the style or value of the K4.

Related

Kia K4 vs K5: Which sedan is the better choice?

Kia’s 2025 sedans both offer excellent value, but which one really offers more bang for your buck?

From budget rivals to high-powered challengers

Credit: Kia

At the lower end of the market, the Kia K4 doesn’t have much company. Its closest rivals are the Toyota Corolla LE at $23,920, the Nissan Sentra S at $23,845 and the Hyundai Elantra SE at $23,870.

The K4 edges out the Corolla and Elantra with more standard technology, while matching the Sentra with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

At the top, the GT-Line Turbo goes up against the slightly weaker Sentra SR and Corolla

Credit: Kia

Choosing the right compact car isn’t easy with so many powerful rivals.

In lower trims, the Kia K4 stands out as a real bargain, offering roomy space for four and a well-equipped interior.

The non-turbo GT-Line strikes a good balance between comfort and style without breaking the bank, while the GT-Line Turbo sneaks into Civic Hybrid territory, where 49 mpg and 232 lb-ft of torque make the Civic the segment heavyweight.

Sources: Kia and CarBuzz