Kia reveals new EV4 exterior design

Kia has pulled back the curtain of the EV4, unveiling the exterior design of both the saloon and hatchback models ahead of the brand’s EV day in Tarragona, Spain.

More than just an expansion of Kia’s EV lineup, the EV4 represents an evolution in Kia’s design, blending sharp lines and technical details to create something fresh – following the original EV4 concept closely, with the low bonnet and fastback profile.

The design of both variants is rooted in Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which pulls from disruption and contrast to create harmonious designs. This demonstrates Kia’s vision for the next generation of electric saloons and the wider EV market.

Karim Habib, executive vice president and head of Kia global design, describes the EV4 as a game-changer: “The Kia EV4 is a clear reflection of our commitment to rethink mobility and expand the boundaries of what design can achieve.

“By offering both saloon and hatchback variants, we are bringing to our customers the unique experience of modernity and practicality that defines the Kia EV family, in a way that suits their varied lifestyles and needs.”

Kia EV4 saloon

Kia has taken the traditional three-box saloon and given it a much-needed makeover with the EV4 saloon. The long-tail silhouette and sleek bonnet create a distinctive profile that reinterprets classic saloon proportions.

One of the defining features of the EV4 saloon is the EV Tiger Face, accentuated by the vertically oriented headlamps and Star Map light signature. From the side, the 19-inch stripe pattern wheels give the EV4 a confident, sporty expression.

This sporty feel is integral to Kia, with Habib noting “elegance and sportiness remain highly relevant” at the New York auto show in 2024, with Habib also voicing Kia’s commitment to the saloon.

From the rear, the two-piece roof spoiler, unique to the EV4, and vertical light units reinforce the wide stance of the vehicle and work in harmony with the premium aesthetic. In fact, Kia’s K4, which was unveiled at the New York auto show, possesses similar proportions and lines to the EV4 saloon. So, if the K4 is anything to go by, perhaps the interior of the EV4 saloon will also revolve around an expansive instrument panel and wide central screen.

Kia EV4 hatchback

While the EV4 saloon aims to redefine elegance, the hatchback variant goes for versatility, without sacrificing style. Like the saloon, it features contrasting black door pillars that provide a bold visual break. The crisp lines and geometric detailing along the lower body and front mask complement the design. It appears agile, ready for both urban commutes and long-distance adventures.

Much like its saloon sibling, the EV4 hatchback’s rear has strong proportions (see below) but adds its own unique character with arrowhead-shaped taillights positioned at the far corners, more of an upright rear window and sharply sculpted lines. A prominent rear spoiler also sets it apart from the saloon, which makes do with a slight upturn to the bootlid.

Kia EV4 GT-Line

In addition to the base model, the GT-Line adds exclusive design elements. Wing-shaped front and rear bumpers add a sportier feel while triangular-motif 19-inch wheels further the futuristic feel.

This, again, buys into Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which Habib expanded on during a prior interview with Car Design News: “Visual contrast is very exciting, seeing things that don’t feel like they belong together yet somehow work.

“The world is full of these contrasts, of messy things that when you look at them a little bit deeper, they’re quite fascinating. We wanted contrast in our design, and to combine things that don’t feel like they should be together.”