Kia’s K4, the successor to the Cerato, is gaining a long-awaited hatchback body style for the 2026 model year. Along with the new variant, the base engine has been updated to prioritize fuel economy, though at a slight cost to peak power. The changes come with price increases ranging from $800 to $1500 across the lineup, which arrives in dealerships this month.
Fuel Economy Upgrades
The 2.0-liter MPI four-cylinder engine has been replaced with a more efficient Atkinson-cycle version. This swap, paired with a new continuously variable transmission (Kia calls it “Intelligent Variable Transmission”), reduces fuel consumption to 6.0L/100km in the sedan (down from 7.4L/100km). Emissions have also been lowered from 167g/km to 139g/km.
The trade-off is a modest drop in power – down 2kW to 110kW and 12Nm to 180Nm. Peak torque delivery is shifted slightly higher in the rev range. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine in the GT-Line remains unchanged. Both engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
Hatchback Finally Arrives
The K4 hatchback will be available across all trim levels at no extra cost compared to the sedan version. It shares the same 2720mm wheelbase but is 270mm shorter overall, making it more practical for urban driving. The hatchback body style is almost a necessity in this class, with only a few rivals (like the MG 5 and Subaru WRX) skipping it.
What’s Next?
A hybrid version of the K4 remains unconfirmed for Australia, though it will launch in Europe with a 1.6-liter hybrid system producing 104kW and 265Nm.
Pricing and Trim Details
Pricing has increased across the board due to the updates. The K4 S, now with optional safety packs, received a four-star ANCAP safety rating (five stars with the full safety suite). All other trims achieve a five-star rating.
Standard equipment on the K4 S includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a suite of safety features like adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. Higher trims add features like heated seats, leatherette upholstery, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
Warranty and Servicing
The K4 retains Kia’s seven-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty. Capped-price servicing details for the 2026 model are yet to be announced.
The K4’s updates reinforce Kia’s commitment to fuel efficiency and practicality, addressing key gaps in its lineup. The addition of a hatchback variant and improved engine efficiency positions the K4 as a competitive choice in the small car segment.
