Kia unveiled the new compact sedan K4 for the first time in the world at the New York Auto Show. Featuring a dynamic design, the K4 is equipped with generative AI that allows natural conversations with people. Kia plans to launch the K4, a strategic overseas model, starting with the North American market in the second half of this year to expand its presence abroad.
On the 27th (local time), Kia showcased the K4 for the first time in the world at the '2024 New York International Auto Show' held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York, USA.
Kia plans to release the strategic compact sedan K4 in North America, Europe, and other markets, but it will not be introduced domestically. In South Korea, the compact sedan lineup K3 will be discontinued in the second half of this year, and a successor electric vehicle will be launched.
The K4 revealed that day features a strong and dynamic exterior design. The front end places vertical headlamps at the edges of the bumper and showcases Kia’s evolved Tiger Face with starmap lighting technology inspired by constellations.
The side profile reflects light along staggered rectangular shapes, expressing the luxurious feel of a sedan, and the fastback silhouette gently extends from the roof to the rear end, maximizing dynamism. The rear also features vertical lamps, giving a robust impression while emphasizing unity with the front design.
The interior design expresses a driver-centric and unique style. The K4 is equipped with a large digital display of about 30 inches, including a 12.3-inch cluster and infotainment screen, and a 5-inch climate control display. Below these, physical buttons are applied for frequently used navigation and climate functions to enable quick and intuitive operation.
Additionally, Kia has integrated generative AI technology into the K4 with the 'Kia AI Assistant.' Based on natural language understanding, it comprehends complex contexts and allows natural conversations between the driver and the vehicle. Going forward, Kia plans to support various functions through updates, such as assisting with travel planning and providing information based on the owner's manual via the AI assistant.
Kia offers the K4 in ▲ a 2.0 gasoline engine model and ▲ a 1.6 gasoline turbo model. The 2.0 gasoline model delivers a maximum output of 149 horsepower and a peak torque of 18.3 kgf·m, while the 1.6 gasoline turbo model boasts a maximum output of 193 horsepower and a peak torque of 27.0 kgf·m.
A Kia official said, "The K4 demonstrates Kia’s commitment to providing a dynamic sedan equipped with advanced technology and powerful performance," adding, "The K4 will offer value beyond customers’ expectations through its product excellence."
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