Kia has confirmed that it will be introducing all-wheel drive and performance-focused GT versions of its new EV4 electric sedan. The global launch of the car took place in Seoul, with the vehicle expected to hit the market in the first quarter of 2026. The spokesperson revealed that the all-wheel drive and GT models will be rolled out later in the same year, following the initial release.
The EV4 was initially launched in South Korea earlier this year, featuring a single motor, front-wheel drive configuration with options for either a 58.3-kWh or 81.4-kWh battery pack. The current model offers a “GT-Line” trim, which mainly focuses on cosmetic enhancements such as bumper redesigns, wheel upgrades, and interior refinements. The electric motor in the current EV4 delivers 201 horsepower.
The addition of all-wheel drive to the EV4 will necessitate the inclusion of an extra motor for the rear wheels, potentially boosting the power output. While specific details regarding the specifications and timeline for the AWD version were not disclosed, Kia confirmed that it is in the pipeline for future release. Similarly, details about the EV4 GT were scarce, with Kia only confirming its existence. However, based on the GT models of other Kia vehicles like the EV6, it is expected to offer a powerful performance.
The upcoming EV4 GT is anticipated to offer slightly lower power output compared to the EV6 GT, which boasts 576 horsepower from dual motors and a 77.4-kWh battery pack. The EV4 GT is likely to compete with models like the Tesla Model 3 Performance, which delivers 510 horsepower from a dual-motor setup in the U.S. market. Additionally, features like the “Virtual Gear Shift,” which simulates an eight-speed transmission, are expected to be included in the EV4 GT, similar to the technology found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
Kia has set a target of 330 miles of EPA-estimated range for the larger battery pack and 235 miles for the smaller pack in the EV4. However, the introduction of all-wheel drive and the GT trim are likely to reduce these range figures due to the added weight and power requirements. For instance, the EPA rates the EV6 GT at 218 miles of range, the lowest among the EV6 lineup trims.
As Kia gears up for the release of the AWD and GT versions of the EV4, questions remain about the production location for the U.S. market. If the cars are manufactured overseas or in Mexico, they may face tariffs that could impact their affordability. Despite the anticipation for the EV4 GT, Kia is focusing on bringing the standard trims to the market first.
In conclusion, the Kia EV4 is set to receive exciting new variants with the introduction of all-wheel drive and the GT model, providing customers with more options for performance and driving experience. Stay tuned for further updates on the release of these new versions of the EV4.