The Kia K4 has proven to be a strong performer in the U.S. market, with American buyers purchasing 126,919 units through November alone. This impressive figure places the compact sedan as Kia’s second best-selling model, trailing only the popular Sportage. Much of the K4’s appeal comes from its competitive pricing strategy, which continues into the 2026 model year with only a modest adjustment. Rather than a significant hike, Kia has limited the price increase to just $200, keeping the car firmly within reach for budget-conscious shoppers.
As a result, the base 2026 Kia K4 LX now carries a starting price of $22,190. While the increase is minimal, there is one notable change at the entry level: the removal of two-tone interior upholstery. The LX, LXS, and EX trims now feature an all-black cabin, streamlining interior choices but slightly reducing visual variety compared to previous versions.
Moving up the lineup, the K4 EX sees a slightly larger price adjustment. Now starting at $24,390—an increase of $400—the EX trim compensates buyers with a more generous list of standard features. Newly included SynTex synthetic leather upholstery enhances the cabin’s look and durability, while heated front seats add comfort, particularly in colder climates. A rear armrest also becomes standard, improving passenger convenience and reinforcing the EX’s role as a well-balanced mid-range option.
The sportier K4 GT-Line, priced at $25,390, also benefits from updates for 2026. Like the EX, it now comes standard with SynTex upholstery, along with a handful of additional refinements. Buyers can further enhance the GT-Line by opting for the $1,200 Premium Package, which introduces a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a heated steering wheel. For those who choose the $900 Sunroof Package, Kia now offers an optional red-and-black interior color scheme for an additional $295, injecting a bit of personality into the cabin. At the top of the range, the $28,290 K4 GT-Line Turbo receives an updated Technology Package that now includes a heated steering wheel as well.
While performance is not the primary selling point of the K4, the entry-level LX remains reasonably equipped for everyday driving. Standard exterior features include LED headlights and 16-inch steel wheels with covers. Inside, buyers will find air conditioning, a fixed rear seat, a four-speaker sound system, a 4-inch digital gauge display, and a large 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Despite its basic positioning, the LX offers a strong suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies. These include Forward Collision Avoidance, High Beam Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, and a rearview camera with parking guidelines.
Under the hood, most K4 models are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 179 Nm of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission, this setup delivers a relaxed driving experience, with a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. Buyers seeking stronger performance can opt for the range-topping GT-Line Turbo, which swaps in a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generating 190 horsepower and 264 Nm of torque. This engine is matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowing the sedan to reach 100 km/h in just eight seconds and achieve a higher top speed of 209 km/h.
Although Kia has not formally announced availability details, evidence suggests the 2026 K4 is already arriving at dealerships across the country.