Talking Cars 472: Driving the Kia K4

Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our driving impressions of the all-new 2025 Kia K4, which serves as a replacement for the Forte. This compact sedan is slightly larger than the Forte, with increased passenger and cargo space.

The outside features all-new, potentially polarizing styling, while the interior is graced with updated tech and large screens.

Still, the K4 isn’t quite “all-new,” as the two available powertrains are largely carried over. Our panelists weigh in on what it’s like to drive and live with the new K4, based on the one we purchased for CR’s auto test program. A key point throughout the discussion was just how much car Kia is giving buyers at the LXS trim’s fairly rational $24,000 price. With that, we delve into how well it compares to perennial small-car favorites like the Honda Civic, Mazda3, and Toyota Corolla. 

Read our Kia K4 first drive review.

Audience Questions
• I’m looking for a new commuter car with 40-plus mpg, good reliability, and all for under $28,000. Can you help?

• Do automakers use different brakes and suspension components when they build a much heavier EV or PHEV on a platform that was originally designed for use with a gas engine? And does this transformation negatively affect cargo-carrying capacity?