Kia has quietly taken the wraps off the upcoming EV4 GT, the high-performance version of its electric hatchback, set to officially reach the market in 2026. Although still covered in a special camouflage wrap, the prototype leaves little to the imagination, as its overall styling closely mirrors the standard EV4 while adding several sportier cues. The EV4 GT will reportedly feature a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system paired with a series of chassis and suspension upgrades, making it a direct rival to both electric performance hatchbacks like the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX and traditional combustion-powered favorites such as the VW Golf R and Toyota GR Corolla.
The unveiling served a dual purpose, as Kia also introduced what it calls the GT Wrap, a striking livery meant to symbolize speed and energy. The wrap combines glossy black, matte gray, and vivid neon green streaks in a fragmented pattern. According to Kia, this new design language will become the visual identity of all future electric GT prototypes during their development phase. The livery’s sharp contrast and dynamic lines reflect Kia’s growing emphasis on performance within its expanding lineup of electric vehicles.
Visually, the EV4 GT maintains the proportions of the existing GT-Line trim but introduces subtle yet distinctive differences that set it apart. At the front, the bumper features vertical air slits that emphasize the car’s performance intent. Along the sides, diamond-cut alloy wheels conceal neon-accented brake calipers, while the rear design is dominated by a GT-specific diffuser and a central vertical LED light bar. These elements echo the design language seen on the EV6 GT, hinting at a strong familial connection across Kia’s performance EV range. Although interior images have not been officially revealed, teaser glimpses show sport-oriented bucket seats with neon detailing, hinting at a driver-focused cabin.
The most significant upgrades, however, lie under the surface. Reports indicate that the EV4 GT will be powered by a dual-motor setup producing around 400 horsepower, drawing energy from the familiar 81.4 kWh battery pack used in the long-range front-wheel-drive variant. Kia aims to deliver an engaging driving experience by incorporating simulated manual shifts and even an artificial rev limiter, features designed to mimic the feel of traditional high-performance cars.
Complementing the extra power, Kia engineers are fine-tuning the chassis with a stiffer suspension, faster steering ratio, and enhanced handling characteristics, ensuring the EV4 GT offers agility and precision on twisty roads. With competitors like the Cupra Born VZ and MG 4 X Power already on the scene, the EV4 GT is expected to make a strong impression in the growing segment of sporty electric hatchbacks.
Finally, Kia confirmed a major shift in its performance strategy: from now on, all GT-badged models will be fully electric. This decision makes the K5 GT the last internal combustion model in Kia’s performance lineup, officially signaling the brand’s transition into an all-electric performance era.