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The 2025 Kia K4 straddles the boundary between small and midsize sedans, yet its pricing firmly places it in the affordable car category. Set to arrive at Kia dealerships in the U.S. this September, the K4 will have an initial price of $23,145, which includes destination charges.
Replacing the outgoing Forte as Kia’s entry-level sedan, the K4 fits below the K5, which shares a similar design. The K4 LX base model is priced $2,000 more than the Forte LX, a natural comparison given the K4 is a new model and the Forte has been discontinued, amidst rising car prices since its exit. Additionally, the K4 is several inches longer and wider than its predecessor, positioning it as the largest compact sedan in its category, according to Kia.
The K4 lineup begins with the LX trim, followed by increases of $1,000 for the LXS and EX trims. The K4 GT-Line starts at $26,345, while the top-tier GT-Line Turbo trim is priced from $29,245. Pricing details for the K4 wagon are still pending.
The K4 GT-Line Turbo enhances the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, upgrading it to a 1.6-liter turbocharged version that delivers 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the base model’s naturally aspirated engine generates 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque—specifications mirroring those of the outgoing Forte, as it features the same engine. Notably, the Forte GT achieves 201 hp with the same 1.6-liter turbo, suggesting some adjustments have been made to the K4’s engine.
One can only assume that the reduction in power is aimed at improving fuel efficiency. A larger vehicle that offers better gas mileage is certainly a positive. Kia claims that the K4’s dimensions ensure enhanced comfort and class-leading rear legroom, complemented by significant interior upgrades over the Forte, featuring a total of 30 inches of screen displays.
Measuring 185.4 inches long and 72.8 inches wide, the K4 stands out as the largest option in the compact segment. It aims to compete against vehicles like the Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla, and Honda Civic, which are generally priced higher than the K4—except for the aging Sentra.
Kia hopes that the K4’s striking design and sleek fastback silhouette will attract buyers who might otherwise choose the reliable Corolla and Civic. Such stylistic characteristics are typically associated with larger and pricier vehicles. This trend aligns with Kia’s broader strategy, as the K4 shares its design language with the smaller K3 model, which is available in Mexico alongside production for both the K3 and the new K4.
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