Kia EV4 Electric Hatchback Surprise 2026 Arrival in Australia?

Kia's first fully electric C-segment hatchback, the Slovakian built EV4, appears destined for Australian shores following strong hints from Kia Australia.

The new model offers the longest driving range of any Kia EV to date, with up to 625km on a single charge in its long-range configuration.

The EV4 positions itself as a more premium interior, higher-tech competitor to the strong-selling MG4 EV hatchback in Australia.

If this rumour proves true, it's great to hear that Kia is offering another sub-4.5m EV alongside the EV3, catering to buyers who don't want a large SUV.

While the EV4 sedan variant has already been confirmed for Australian launch, the hatchback version would provide additional choice for local buyers seeking a more practical boot configuration.

Industry observers expect Kia Australia to showcase the EV4 at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne during mid-January 2026. As a major sponsor of the event, Kia frequently uses the tournament to reveal upcoming electric vehicle models for the Australian market.

Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, remarked prior to the 2025 Kia EV Day event:

"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."

He further commented: "Offering a fresh take on the saloon, the EV4 saloon features a sleek, low nose and long-tail silhouette. The EV4 hatchback is a nimble, versatile all-rounder. Distinctive and clean, it is built to excel in any situation."

UK Battery and Range Options

Standard Range Configuration The base EV4 Air features a 58.3kWh battery pack delivering up to 439km of range.

Long Range Configuration The 81.4kWh battery option extends range to 625km, representing Kia's first production EV to exceed 600km on a single charge.

Performance Specifications All variants utilise a single front-mounted electric motor producing 150kW (201bhp) and 283Nm of torque, enabling 0-62mph acceleration in 7.5 seconds.

UK Model Variants and Features

Air Grade The entry-level trim offers both battery options and serves as the most affordable gateway into Kia's electric hatchback range.

GT-Line Grade Mid-specification variant comes exclusively with the long-range battery and sportier exterior styling, delivering 583km of range.

GT-Line S Grade Top-tier model maintains the same 583km range as GT-Line but includes additional premium features and equipment.

Design Philosophy and Styling

Opposites United Design Language The EV4 embodies Kia's 'Opposites United' design philosophy, achieving harmony through contrasts in the compact segment. Dynamic profiles blend sharp, distinctive lines with bold, technical detailing.

EV Tiger Face Front End Both variants feature Kia's innovative EV Tiger Face with vertically oriented headlamps and the brand's Star Map lighting signature. This combination emphasises the vehicle's wide, sporty stance while highlighting its refined character.

Hatchback Exterior Characteristics The hatchback variant presents a contemporary, solid appearance defined by contrasting black vertical C-pillars and crisply executed lines. Robust fenders and machined 19-inch wheels add visual strength, while geometric patterns on lower body sections emphasise innovation.

Saloon Silhouette Design The saloon reimagines traditional sedan proportions with a sleek, streamlined profile incorporating a low bonnet flowing to a long-tail design. A unique roof spoiler reinforces the premium aesthetic alongside intricate technical stripe patterns on the wheels.

Infotainment System Dual 12.3-inch displays integrate Kia's connected car Navigation Cockpit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Climate Control Interface A dedicated 5.3-inch touchscreen manages heating and ventilation, complemented by physical rocker switches on the centre console.

Charging Capabilities DC fast charging enables 10-80% battery replenishment in 29-31 minutes using 350kW chargers, while 11kW AC charging requires 5.3-7.25 hours depending on battery size.

Technology and Charging

The EV4 hatchback achieves a drag coefficient of 0.27CD through aerodynamic optimisation including active air flaps and 82% underbody coverage. Boot capacity reaches 435 litres with all seats in position, positioning it competitively within the family hatchback segment.

Built on Kia's Electric-Global Modular Platform, the EV4 measures 4,430mm in length with a 2,820mm wheelbase. Both variants demonstrate Kia's vision for next-generation electric vehicles through innovative silhouettes that present new typology in the uniform EV market.

Design and Practicality

Kia plans to launch 15 electric vehicles globally by 2030 under its Plan S strategy. A saloon-bodied EV4 Fastback variant is also under development, with specifications and pricing to be announced separately.

Final pricing, specifications and availability for the Australian market are expected to be confirmed closer to the anticipated 2026 launch.