Some Say Kia Utterly Ruined The EV4 Sedan With That Prolonged Rear, However Hatchback’s Spectacular Styling Seems Higher and Has The Greatest Likelihood In opposition to The Tesla Mannequin Y

Kia is on a roll with its present EV lineup, and the brand new EV4 is proving the model is great and bending futuristic styling and utility. The model appears to have gone via a number of bother in making the sedan and hatchback look the identical, at the very least from the entrance. It was a wise transfer to maintain the model identification robust, however the hatchback presents higher. The sedan’s rear particularly seems barely unbalanced in comparison with the hatchback’s smooth form. The shorter rear deck on the hatch additionally makes the automotive seem extra put collectively. 

A few yr and a half in the past, Kia showcased two new EV ideas, the EV3 and EV4, at its EV Day occasion in South Korea. These new EVs might characterize Kia’s ambitions higher than the midsize SUV EV9 as a result of they’ll possible be produced in bigger numbers. Just a few days in the past Kia simply unveiled them.

Whereas the EV4 sedan provides an elongated tail and fastback silhouette, the hatchback presents a extra versatile design with sculpted fenders and symmetrical physique accents.

“I like the hatchback, and assume Kia did a fantastic job on a futuristic design language. The sedan then again is totally ruined with that prolonged rear, I imply wasn’t there another approach to make the automotive longer? Possibly skip the sedan and make it a extra helpful wagon. I ponder if anybody goes to purchase the sedan model,” writes Duartec3000 person on Reddit, commenting underneath the dialogue of Kia unveiling the EV4 sedan and the hatchback.

The hatchback does have aesthetic similarities just like the broad stance on the again, however the hatchback includes a sharply angled rear window and related LED taillight design. It additionally has a shorter overhand and a extra dynamic look, making it appear sportier in comparison with the stretched-out proportions of the sedan. These attributes make it a stronger adversary towards the Tesla Mannequin Y, interesting to patrons in search of aptitude and performance. 

EV4 Trumps Mannequin Y in Design

Technicalities apart, EV hatchbacks and crossovers are in season at the moment. They only look higher and really feel extra forward-thinking. Whereas the Mannequin Y has a robust foothold within the EV hatchback section, Kia’s reply supplies a contemporary possibility with elevated practicality, distinctive designs, and instruments that would make it extra enticing to shoppers.

The EV4 hatchback stands out with aggressive angular headlights, a smooth entrance grille, and sculpted sides. Whereas the Mannequin Y options tender curves, the unadorned form blends into the crossover section with out visible drama. The identical applies to the entrance and rear ends. Kia’s wraparound LED gentle bar on the rear of the sloped rear window blends right into a seamless futuristic present that has drawn important pleasure on social media. 

Higher Driving Dynamics

The Mannequin Y might excel in straight-line energy with a 342 horsepower motor in comparison with the 282 horsepower possibility on the EV4, however the latter has a sportier really feel. Its decrease middle of gravity and compact rear design mix to supply a extra responsive driving expertise that feels participating. Kia’s dealing with can be extra dynamic than Tesla’s laid-back strategy. That is most likely as a result of superior suspension and steering programs that supply a extra responsive drive. 

Practicality with Liftback Design 

The Kia EV4 additionally comes with higher storage and a liftback trunk. This isn’t to say the Mannequin Y provides cramped quarters, however the EV4’s design supplies a bigger opening, so there’s higher entry to accommodate cumbersome objects. Although the Tesla provides nice cargo house, it doesn’t have the identical flexibility because the Kia. The rear seating may additionally be folded down flat to create a big cargo space to accommodate those that want the flexibleness of larger trunk house. 

Premium Inside and Superior Know-how 

The Kia EV4 and the Tesla each have trendy tech-driven cabins in step with the wishes of their buyer base, however the EV4 provides important luxurious and not using a substantial price ticket. Kia included consideration to element with soft-touch surfaces, high-quality supplies, and a refined format to present the automobile an upscale really feel.

The EV4 additionally includes a broad digital sprint full with a touchscreen for infotainment and driver help system integration. Tesla may additionally be smooth and futuristic, however it additionally feels overly minimal to some. The shortage of conventional dials on the Mannequin Y’s middle console may additionally be disorienting. Therefore, the EV4 hatchback balances tangible controls and tech-forward options by making working simpler. The EV4 cabin format additionally seems extra spacious as a result of exterior dimensions.

Higher Worth for Cash 

Although Tesla has been out there for longer, its excessive worth level is inconvenient for a lot of shoppers who wish to enter the electrical automobile market. The EV4 provides higher driving dynamics, materials high quality, and aesthetics.

Although it has not but been launched, it’s estimated Kia will place the MSRP between $30,000 and $40,000. By offering a extra enticing price ticket, the EV4 provides patrons a premium expertise with out the excessive price ticket. That is notably essential for people who wish to change to a budget-friendly open however nonetheless expertise the worth they want. 

Although the Tesla Mannequin Y continues to be a robust contender inside the EV crossover house, the EV4 hatchback makes a compelling argument to change sides. Its higher design, improved inside, practicality, and practicality are only a few of the options that make it a wonderful possibility if you would like a contemporary however reasonably priced electrical automobile. In case your purpose is an EV that gives a novel and classy various in comparison with the minimalist Tesla, the Kia EV4 is the most suitable choice.

What do you concentrate on Kia’s design selections with the EV4? Do you like the smooth and sensible hatchback, or do you see potential within the sedan regardless of its controversial rear? Share your ideas and private experiences within the feedback beneath. We’d love to listen to your take!

Nicholas Muhoro is an automotive journalist masking automotive information and has a decade of expertise sharing working at HotCars and TopSpeed. You may observe Nicholas on X and on LinkedIn to remain in contact and observe his information protection at Torque Information.