The sleek compact sedan shown above may not be immediately familiar, as it represents the newly revamped entry-level sedan from Kia, now called the K4. This 2025 model takes the place of the Kia Forte and becomes the brand’s most economical offering following the discontinuation of the subcompact Rio in 2023.

Kia is preparing to begin production of the K4 in Mexico, with sales anticipated to start in the third quarter of this year. Initially, it will be released as an elegant sedan, although a hatchback version was showcased earlier this year at the 2024 New York auto show, and is expected to join the lineup sometime after the 2025 model, according to Young Kim, Kia’s senior product strategy manager. The primary focus is getting the sedan—popular worldwide—into the market first.

We have taken a closer look at the K4 sedan and have additional information to share.

Kia K4 is the Largest in Its Class

To begin with, the K4 has a larger footprint compared to the previous Forte and Kia claims it will become the biggest vehicle in its category. Transitioning to the K3 platform, the K4 features multilink suspension on higher trims, and its new design is as wide as some midsize sedans, offering ample headroom and generous legroom in the back seat.

The design is striking, featuring vertical headlights located at the edges and a fastback silhouette. There are five available trim levels: LX, LXS, GT-Line, GT-Line Turbo, and the new EX, which boasts a stylish slate green interior. Additional interior color options include two-tone black and white, medium gray, and a vivid red/black blend akin to that found in the Kia K5.

Consumers can choose from eight exterior colors along with five different wheel options, which include two 16-inch designs, a 17-inch, and two 18-inch choices, one of which is a glossy black available for the GT-Line Turbo.

Retaining Forte Powertrains

The K4 retains the engine options from the Forte. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter Atkinson four-cylinder that works with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), generating 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. While the EPA fuel economy ratings are not yet available, industry insiders anticipate numbers to resemble those of the Forte, despite the K4’s larger size. The Forte LX was rated at 30 mpg in the city, 41 on the highway, and a combined 34 mpg.

Customers can opt for a more powerful 1.6-liter turbo-four engine that produces 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque—this is a reduction from the Forte’s 201 lb-ft. This option comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, as the manual transmission from the Forte will not be available in the K4.

Kia has not considered including a hybrid variant for the K4. However, there is an all-electric EV3 compact crossover in development set to be sold in the U.S. by 2026. Company executives did not confirm whether this will be the last generation of the gas-powered K4.

Inside the 2025 Kia K4

Along with a 12.3-inch display for the driver, the center infotainment screen has also expanded to 12.3 inches. Previously, entry-level cars typically featured 7- or 8-inch displays (the Forte came with an 8-inch screen), but this segment has become fiercely competitive, prompting automakers to prioritize larger screens for younger consumers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.

In a groundbreaking move for Kia, the K4 introduces an AI voice assistant capable of understanding natural language requests rather than relying on specific keywords. This intelligent assistant remembers context for follow-up queries and provides more localized information, trip details, and even offers an owner’s manual for vehicle inquiries.

The K4 features adjustable cupholders that are inspired by the Kia EV9, a three-row electric SUV. These cupholders can securely hold a drink of up to 32 ounces, and they can retract to provide additional storage for items like wallets, sunglasses, and snacks. The vehicle is equipped with four USB ports and an optional wireless charging station.

Pricing details will be shared as we approach the launch date. It is anticipated that the starting price will exceed the Forte’s base price of $21,145. The K4 upholds Kia’s reputation of delivering a range of features and excellent value at a competitive price point.