In 2023, rumors started circulating in the automotive world about Kia renaming the new generation K3 to K4. Now, the rumors are about to become reality as Kia releases a video revealing the design of the new K4.
Currently, the Kia K3 in the US market is known as the Forte. According to sources, the new generation Forte will be renamed K4 to create a unified naming scheme for Kia’s sedan models.
Last year, Kia also introduced the new generation Rio in the Mexican market under the name K3. Therefore, it is understandable to change the name of the Forte to Kia K4.
The images released by Kia for the K4 are not very clear. However, we can still make out some exterior design details of this C-segment sedan.
Video reveals the design of the 2025 Kia K4 – the replacement for the K3
The 2025 Kia K4 has a design that is quite similar to the new K3 currently sold in Mexico
It comes as no surprise that the K4 shares the design language with Kia’s latest models. This can be seen in the vertical headlights at the front of the car. Additionally, it features LED daytime running lights and taillights inspired by star maps.
The 2025 Kia K4 has taillights inspired by star maps
In addition, this C-segment sedan has a unique C-pillar design. The rear door handles are not on the doors like in the previous generation, but integrated into the C-pillar. Furthermore, it features new multi-spoke alloy wheels with a two-tone finish.
The Kia K4 2025 has a distinctive C-pillar design
It seems that the Kia K4 2025 will be larger than its predecessor, offering a more spacious interior. From the spy shots, we can see that this C-segment sedan has an interior design that is quite similar to the Kia EV9 electric car.
The 2025 Kia K4 is predicted to be larger than the previous K3
Inside the car, the Kia K4 2025 is equipped with a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel and a curved display on the dashboard, integrating a digital instrument cluster into the touchscreen. Surrounding the center air vents are two rows of mechanical buttons, allowing the driver to control common features of the car such as the infotainment system, navigation, and air conditioning. Additionally, this model has a large gear lever located in the center console.
The interior of the 2025 Kia K4
Currently, there is no specific information about the equipment and engines of the new Kia K4. According to rumors, the car will have 3 engine options, depending on the market. First is a naturally aspirated 1.6L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, producing a maximum power of 123 horsepower. The engine can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The second option is a naturally aspirated 2.0L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, generating a maximum power of 152 horsepower. This engine comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Finally, there is a turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder gasoline engine. However, the specifications of this engine are still unknown.
According to the plan, the Kia K4 2025 will be officially unveiled at the New York Auto Show 2024, opening on March 27th. It is currently unclear whether the Kia K3 in markets outside of North America, such as Vietnam, will be renamed as the K4.
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