Has Kia created an automotive rebel or just a misunderstood genius with the Kia EV4 GT Line? They promise a technological revolution, but what we got is an extremely spacious and bold car that requires some getting used to from the driver. We checked how this electric special performs in reality and why, despite some teenage whims, it may completely win you over. More in our test - Kia EV4 GT Line.
In the world of motoring today, the easiest thing to do is to make another boring and safe “egg” on wheels that won’t bother anyone, but at the same time won’t really excite anyone. Kia is clearly not playing this game anymore. When I first stepped in front of the new Kia EV4 GT Line, I had to admit that the designers used a lot of rulers and sharp angles in their work. The car's design is absolutely divided. With a lot of corners and intersecting lines, from certain angles it looks like a futuristic vehicle from the game Minecraft, and from others it gives a very striking, almost conceptual impression on the road. It's not for everyone, but those looking for something different will be impressed.
But the real surprise awaited me when I opened the door.
Where is that new smell and digital hide-and-seek?
Every car enthusiast knows that the first contact with a new car is olfactory – the smell of freshness. Interestingly, our test Kia EV4, despite being practically new, did not smell at all. Perhaps it is the use of new, recycled and environmentally conscious materials, but I can't get past the fact that there is a bit more hard and cheaper-feeling plastic hidden inside than you would expect in this price range.
"In the age of smart solutions, the car has become a puzzle. But once you solve it, it gets under your skin."
The infotainment system is rich and visually appealing, but the engineers relied a bit too much on digitizing everything possible. Ergonomics require getting used to. For example, the screen with the climate control controls has been completely hidden behind the steering wheel. While driving, you will have to lean to the side a little to see how many degrees the air is blowing. I also had to capitulate to the otherwise excellent set of assistance systems: despite the fact that the test car was loaded with equipment, I was unable to logically and quickly turn on the automatic high beam functions. I am sure that the car has this function, but it is clearly hidden somewhere deep in the digital labyrinth of menus.
Numbers: Stability and the reality of everyday electricity
Under all those sharp edges hides modern and powerful technology. The heart of the car is a large lithium-ion battery with 81.4 kWh gross (and 78.0 kWh net usable capacity). The electric motor, mounted at the front, develops a sovereign 150 kW (201 hp) of power and 283 Nm (209 lb-ft) of torque. When you step on the gas, this futuristic carriage will take you to 100 km/h in a solid 7.7 seconds, and the speedometer will stop at an electronically limited 170 km/h (106 mph). The ride is comfortable despite the 19-inch wheels, the steering wheel is a bit artificially weighted, but extremely precise, and the brakes deserve a full five for their natural feel.
What about the electric reality? The WLTP standard dreams of a range of 625 kilometers, but with our slightly more dynamic and realistic testing we quickly put things on solid ground. The car used about 20 kWh per 100 km (321 Wh/mile). With a 78 kWh usable battery, this means in reality about 390 kilometers (242 miles) of worry-free range. For a vehicle of this size, this is a completely solid number, although it does not break class records. When the battery is empty, the EV4 uses a 400-volt architecture. On a DC fast charger, it draws up to 135 kW, which means that you will charge from 10 % to 80 % in a completely acceptable 33 minutes. A bit slow.
The bright side: Limousine comfort and future technology
Without being too picky, it's worth highlighting the car's biggest assets. Once you look past some of the cheap plastic, you'll find that the Kia EV4 GT Line has designed the interior like a living room. Thanks to the extra-long wheelbase, the rear seats literally have the legroom of an executive sedan. The trunk doesn't disappoint either; at 435 liters (15.3 cubic feet), it offers a very usable layout for all your family adventures.
Its hidden superpowers are bi-directional charging and peace of mind. The V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) system, which enables an output of 3.6 kW, means you can power your laptop, coffee maker or even charge your e-bike anywhere in the wild. The car simply becomes your traveling power station.
Conclusion: A brave step worth considering
The Kia EV4 GT Line is a car that requires a slightly more tactical approach. A fully equipped test model, imbued with assistance systems, carries a price tag of around 54,000 euros. True, for this money we would like some more prestigious materials on the dashboard, faster access to the air conditioning and menus that do not require reading extensive instructions for turning on the high beams. Real-world consumption of 20 kWh/100 km also shows that the design takes its aerodynamic toll.
But it would be unfair to judge it solely by its whims. The EV4 is an incredibly loyal companion with top-notch brakes, space that puts many a larger sedan to shame, and a bold look that sets you apart from the average. Add to that the useful V2L feature and Kia's legendary 7-year warranty, we find that beneath those sharp edges lies a very friendly and useful family car. It's not perfect, but it's undoubtedly a car with a strong character - and there's a great shortage of such in today's world.
