The Kia EV4 Fastback aims to carve its niche in the rapidly growing electric SUV market. While it shares much with its boxier hatchback sibling, the saloon’s sleeker design and longer rear overhang raise questions about practicality versus aesthetics. This review explores whether the added styling comes at too high a cost.
A Saloon Silhouette With Practicality Compromises
Though Kia expects only 15% of EV4 buyers to opt for the Fastback, its distinctive four-door profile stands out in a world dominated by SUVs and hatchbacks. Stretching 300mm longer than its hatchback counterpart thanks to an extended rear overhang, the Fastback boasts a generous 490-litre boot, exceeding many traditional saloons. However, the letterbox-style opening restricts access compared to the hatch’s wider aperture.
While offering a more spacious feel due to its flat floor and ample headroom even for taller passengers, the Fastback sacrifices some versatility. There’s no front trunk (“frunk”) and cargo space under the boot floor is limited to accommodating charging cables.
Driving Dynamics: Refinement Over Sportiness
On the road, the differences between the Fastback and its hatchback sibling are subtle. The sleeker design reduces drag (Cd from 0.26 to 0.23), contributing to a quieter and more refined driving experience. Both models deliver commendable ride comfort even on larger wheels, soaking up bumps without fuss.
While steering feedback lacks precision and responses are somewhat muted around the centre, body control remains respectable when navigating winding roads. Braking performance is strong with a progressive pedal feel, and regenerative braking can be adjusted via conveniently placed paddles behind the wheel.
Powertrain Performance: More Than Enough for Everyday Use
The sole powertrain option currently available—a 201bhp motor—provides ample thrust for everyday driving without overwhelming the front wheels. It’s more than capable of delivering a satisfying surge of acceleration to surprise petrol-powered rivals at traffic lights. The sprint from 0 to 62mph takes 7.9 seconds, with enough reserves for confident overtaking maneuvers.
In terms of efficiency, our test revealed an average consumption of roughly 4.1 miles per kWh (equivalent to approximately 330 miles of range on a single charge). This figure was achieved on a mixed driving route, highlighting the car’s commendable energy management. Notably, this model was equipped with the optional (£900) heat pump – not standard across all trims – which further boosts efficiency in milder climates like the UK’s.
Charging speeds of up to 127kW enable topping up from 10% to 80% battery capacity in approximately 31 minutes. While this lags behind faster rivals like the Mercedes CLA, the Kia’s strong efficiency profile minimizes reliance on expensive rapid charging stations.
Interior: Familiar Design With Upscale Touches
The Fastback’s cabin draws heavily from its hatchback sibling and shares much with the EV3 SUV. Overall build quality impresses with a solidly constructed feel throughout. While the perforated leather seats and two-tone dashboard might not appeal to all, the airy ambiance is enhanced by the low center console which provides ample storage space for smaller items.
Twin 12.3-inch displays – one for instruments, the other for infotainment – dominate the dashboard, complemented by a smaller 5.3-inch panel for climate controls. Interestingly, temperature adjustment relies on tactile rocker switches integrated into the main fascia – a welcome tactile element in an increasingly digital world.
The layout of haptic shortcut buttons beneath the central display, however, proves less successful, proving difficult to read and operate while underway. Thankfully, dedicated steering wheel buttons provide quick access to disabling lane-keep assist and the occasionally irritating speed limit warning systems.
Wireless Apple CarPlay (and Android Auto) are standard features and functioned flawlessly throughout testing. However, navigation and entertainment apps were inaccessible due to a lack of an active user account.
Value Proposition: Style Comes at a Premium
The primary obstacle facing the EV4 Fastback is its pricing structure. It lacks the base model option available on the hatchback, forcing buyers into higher-end trims exceeding the £40,000 threshold that triggers the annual “luxury car” Vehicle Excise Duty surcharge (£425). Adding a £1,500 premium over its hatchback counterpart only exacerbates the issue, making the value proposition less compelling.
In conclusion, while the Kia EV4 Fastback delivers refined driving dynamics and a distinctive aesthetic appeal, it may not justify its higher price point compared to the already excellent standard EV4 hatchback. Buyers seeking a stylish saloon alternative with long-range capability must carefully weigh these factors against their budget constraints.
