New Kia K4 review: a Korean counter-attack on the VW Golf

Inside, the digital cockpit stretches across the centre console, providing the familiar ambience found in Kia’s electric models. Thanks to a 2.72-metre wheelbase, rear passengers sit in first-class comfort. The boot holds 438 litres, making it significantly larger than the Golf’s and narrowly beating the firm’s own electric EV4 alternative. Naturally, there’s no ‘frunk’ to be found here; the bonnet conceals a classic internal-combustion engine rather than an electric motor.

If you’ve become familiar with EVs, you’ll have to readjust to the sound of a petrol engine and the manual act of shifting gears – although the dual-clutch transmission manages this almost seamlessly. With one hand on the chunky gear lever and the other on the wheel, you feel taken seriously as a driver again, enjoying the drive as a relatively analogue experience. It feels a bit like listening to music in a stadium rather than on Spotify.

It seems Kia has also tightened a few screws on the K4, which is produced in Mexico and was primarily developed for America. While the US saloon acquitted itself well, this European hatchback feels more direct and engaging.

The 1.6-litre turbo in our car suits this character. It delivers a solid 177bhp, taking 8.4 seconds to sprint from 0-62mph, with a top speed of 128mph. This engine is also available with 147bhp and is only marginally slower in a straight line.

Lower down the range, the K4 makes do with a 113bhp 1.0-litre engine, which on paper, takes a lethargic 12.2 seconds to hit 62mph – or 12.3 seconds with the DCT auto. While the K4 is a wonderfully old-fashioned car, even combustion engines can’t completely escape electrification; the base engine comes with mild-hybrid technology as standard.

Kia is swimming against the tide with the K4. As well as offering its brand-new family option with petrol power, it is defiantly resisting the SUV trend. For those wanting more ground clearance and an adventurous look, the XCeed is the last variant of the K4’s predecessor that remains on sale. And if you need even more space, there is already a concept study for a stylish designer estate.

A more detailed drive on UK roads and a turn in the entry-level 1.0T will come early in 2026.