New Kia 4 compact sedan should challenge favorites

The 2025 Kia K4 is a new compact sedan from the South Korean manufacturer, replacing the Kia Forte. It expands to two the number of non-sport utility vehicles in the carmaker’s lineup.

Four years ago, Kia introduced the K5 to replace the Kia Optima as the brand’s midsize sedan.

As siblings, the vehicles share appearances with angular headlights and other modernized features. The K4 also debuts as among the few vehicles that look and drive well beyond their segment designation and price range.

With its tapered roofline, high-resting, flush rear door handles and protruding fenders, the K4 has sports car leanings. It expands its sporting feel with a flat top and flat bottom steering wheel in the reviewed GT-Line trim.

The Kia’s expanded length also corresponds to more interior space, nota