South Korean car company Kia has unveiled the exterior design of its new EV4 electric sedan and hatchback, the latest in its EV series that it is set to premiere later this month at its EV Day event in Tarragona, Spain.
The EV4 design appears to match almost exactly the concept unveiled in late 2023 and features the so-called “EV Tiger Face” design first introduced on the larger EV9 in 2023 and subsequently on the EV3 and EV5.
This ‘Tiger Face’ pair a cluster of LED lights alongside the vertically oriented headlamps and the brand’s Star Map lightning signature – a combination which is designed to accentuate the car’s “wide, sporty stance while underlining its refined, cutting-edge character.”
The official press release accompanying the six exterior photos offers little in the way of actual details, offering descriptions of its “Opposites United” design philosophy that “typifies harmony achieved through contrasts” and “demonstrates Kia’s vision for the next generation of electric sedans through its innovative silhouette, presenting a new typology in a uniform EV market.”
Every element of the design of the new EV4 is apparently “a forward-thinking character, embodying a sense of freedom and exploration that resonates with drivers seeking innovation and versatility” which the company says means that the EV4 will be “equally at home on urban streets or continent-crossing adventures.”
What we can actually see in the photos, however, is nevertheless a strikingly contoured vehicle that blends the popular geometric design elements common on modern vehicles with an almost clay-like smoothness.
The front half of the EV4 exhibits the promised sleek and streamlined silhouette which incorporates a low hood line that flows up to the tail of the car.
The elegant lines and detailing of the front are definitely captivating, but it’s the transition to the rear that might divide opinions, which flows into a drop-away, sloping fastback boot that could be seen as somewhat jarring.
On the other hand, the EV4 hatchback looks just like you’d want it to – though, that could itself be the subjective downside for some looking for a more expressive contrast to the norm.
Machined 19-inch wheels adorn the sedan and hatchback, while triangular-motif 19-inch wheels enhance the “futuristic” and “sporty” feel of the GT-Line, alongside wing-shaped front and rear bumpers.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.