Kia's new Tesla knockout punch? 2025 Kia EV4 sedan and hatchback electric car revealed to battle BYD Seal, Tesla Model 3 and MG4

Kia has revealed its new small electric hatchback and sedan.

Dubbed the EV4, the compact electric car carries similar styling to the coming EV3 compact electric SUV and the new petrol-powered K4 small car.

It will compete with the Tesla Model 3, BYD Seal and MG4.

It is the latest arrival in what could be the most comprehensive electric car range globally.

Unlike most electric cars the EV4 will be offered in two body styles, which is a strategy many brands have rolled out for petrol cars but not zero-emissions vehicles.

“By offering both sedan and hatchback variants, we are bringing to our customers the unique experience of modernity and practicality that defines the Kia EV family, in a way that suits their varied lifestyles and needs,” said Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design.

“Offering a fresh take on the sedan, the EV4 sedan features a sleek, low nose and long-tail silhouette. The EV4 hatchback is a nimble, versatile all-rounder. Distinctive and clean, it is built to excel in any situation,” he said.

The differing body types make sense for a global vehicle such as the EV4. Sedans are dominant in Korea, China and the US but European and Australian drivers prefer hatchbacks over their four-door equivalents.

2025 Kia EV4.

The front end brings the brand’s EV 'Tiger Face', which is an interpretation of the front-end styling featured on its petrol and hybrid vehicles.

There are sharp vertical headlights and a pinched bonnet and small lower grille.

The 19-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler and a sleek aerodynamic-focused silhouette add to its appeal.

Kia will release full details of the EV4 twins next week, but if we join the dots we know what to expect.

It is likely the EV4 will share much of its DNA with the coming EV3 small electric SUV.

That means buyers can expect a single electric motor making 150kW and 283Nm driving the front wheels, a choice of either a 58.3kWh and 81.4kWh battery with the bigger pack giving a driving range of more than 600km.

Prices should start at below $50,000 if the EV3 price guide is anything to go by.

Charging won't be as speedy as the more premium EV9 and EV6 as it forgoes the 800-volt charging architecture in favour of a 400-volt set-up.

This means the 350kW maximum rate of Kia’s other vehicles is off the table.

Kia said the EV3 can replenish the batteries from 10 to 80 per cent in 31 minutes, which would put the charge rate at about 120kW, so expect similar juice intake.

2025 Kia EV4.

A dual-motor GT version is likely.

The EV4 is expected to go on sale globally later this year.

There has been no official confirmation of the EV4 for Australia, but it is expected to join the company's local range.