Drivin' in Czechia
All you need to drive smart in the Czech Republic
Kia Ceed is a great example of how far this Korean brand has come in recent years. While the first generation aimed to prove that Kia is not just about affordability, the current model stands as a full-fledged competitor to European compacts, and in many ways, it belongs among the benchmarks of the class. However, this compact representative of Kia is now undergoing a transformation. Instead of the Ceed, the new Kia K4 is arriving. After the American specification introduced in the spring, the European version is now debuting as well—in the form of a hatchback, with no sedan version expected.
Dynamic design
The design of the new model is highly dynamic, as one would expect from Kia’s new compact. The K4 stylistically aligns with the rest of the brand’s lineup—its front headlights are reminiscent of the EV9 or the updated Sorento. These are complemented by a low grille that visually widens the front end of the car. The rear of the K4 features L-shaped tail lights, while the side view draws attention with hidden rear door handles, making this Ceed replacement resemble a three-door car.
Compared to the current Ceed, the dimensions are different as well. The new hatchback measures 448 cm in length, exceeding the previous generation by a significant 17 cm. Together with a width of 185 cm, this is supposed to ensure a spacious interior, reportedly the most generous in the segment. The luggage compartment, with a volume of 438 liters, is also large for this class.
Inside, we find a panoramic digital cockpit that combines a 12.3″ instrument cluster, 12.3″ touchscreen infotainment, and 5.3″ climate control in a single interface. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and Kia Connect services with OTA updates and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Thanks to an AI-based voice assistant, the user can simply say “Hey Kia” to control various vehicle functions or receive information (including the user manual or local recommendations).
“It proves that Kia can bring design, technology, and space from a higher class to a segment where customers didn’t expect it,” says Sjoerd Knipping, COO of Kia Europe, about the new model.
As hybrid in 2026
The most noticeable difference between the European K4 and the American one lies in the powertrain. While the American version offers a 2.0-liter petrol engine and a 1.6-liter turbo, the European spec features slightly different options. The lineup will start with a 1.0 T-GDI three-cylinder petrol engine (84 kW) with a six-speed manual transmission, followed by as-yet unspecified mild-hybrid engines, and topped by a 1.6 T-GDI (132 kW) with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
In 2026, the lineup will be expanded with a full hybrid version. A turbodiesel, on the other hand, will not be offered—even the current Ceed no longer comes with this engine.
One thing is certain: the Kia K4 will not be an electric vehicle, which is good news for many of its potential customers. In the compact segment, Kia offers its dedicated electric model in the form of the EV4, which appeals to buyers seeking a compact EV.
Production in Mexico
Another difference from the Ceed will be the production site. While the Ceed has always been built in Žilina, Slovakia, the K4 will be imported from Mexico. However, it remains to be seen what will happen with the upcoming K4 wagon, which will be primarily aimed at the European market.
The Kia K4 is expected to launch in the Czech market in 2026, and pricing for the local market will be announced by then. At the same time, the new generation of the Hyundai i30—its related model—is also expected to debut. So the replacement for the Ceed will arrive at an appropriate time; after all, the current version has been on sale since 2018. An eight-year life cycle is already considered long among compact cars, largely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and uncertainties surrounding the future of internal combustion engines in Europe. However, they are not ending just yet—so alongside the electric EV4, Kia will also offer the K4 with a combustion engine. Whether the Proceed shooting brake and Xceed crossover derivatives will return remains to be seen.
