The Kia EV4 Fastback targets buyers who want a practical, efficient EV without another crossover. In Romania it starts at €41,690 on Kia’s local site (promotional price shown), with up to 633 km range claimed for the Fastback. Configurator examples include 58.3 kWh Earth 2 at €43,190 and 81.4 kWh Long Range Earth 2 at €47,130; a stock GT-Line 81.4 kWh 204 hp unit was listed around €56,273 with discount applied.
On paper: 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh batteries, 150 kW / 204 hp, 0–100 km/h in 7.4–7.7 s depending on version, 10–80 % charging in about 29–31 minutes, plus a digital cockpit with twin 12.3-inch displays and a 5.3-inch climate panel.
Design: love it or hate it
Kia’s “EV Tiger Face” and “Star Map” lighting make the front wide and technical. The profile is low and sleek; integrated handles and smooth panels serve aerodynamics as much as style. The contrast C-pillar and sharp tail split opinion—Kia calls it “Opposites United.” This is not a neutral shape like Hyundai Ioniq 6 or a cold minimal Tesla Model 3; it has deliberate identity.
Positioning
A lower, longer body should help motorway efficiency and stability versus a high-rider. Kia cites up to 633 km range and 490 litres of boot space for the EV4 family—practical long-distance hardware in a fastback silhouette.
Powertrain
One front motor: 204 hp, 283 Nm—enough for daily and motorway use without dual-motor drama. Two batteries: 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh; European pages quote roughly 410–630 km WLTP depending on spec. Romania markets the Fastback at up to 633 km. Fast charge 10–80 % in about 29–31 minutes; 0–100 km/h 7.4–7.7 s.
Driving
Early Romanian impressions praise ride comfort and suspension balance over outright Tesla pace. Kia/Hyundai have refined EU-tuned EV chassis; the EV4 feels set up for real miles, not just 0–100 bragging. Front drive means less natural traction on poor grip than a RWD Model 3, but predictable for most buyers.
Long-trip reports cite roughly 500 km real range in cold for the large battery (third-party test reference in source material)—strong if repeatable.
Interior
Twin 12.3-inch screens plus 5.3-inch climate display separate functions instead of burying everything in one slab. Ambient lighting, OTA updates, Harman Kardon on upper trims, Digital Key 2, Theatre/Rest modes, USB-C and a column shifter underline usability.
Prices in Romania
From €41,690 promotional; €43,190 (58.3 kWh Earth 2); €47,130 (81.4 kWh Long Range Earth 2); GT-Line stock examples above €56,000. Not cheap, but aligned with range and tech for many buyers.
Rivals
Tesla Model 3 — from about €36,990 locally; Long Range RWD inventory around €47,500; up to 750 km WLTP and 250 kW Supercharging. Tesla wins network and software; Kia counters with a more conventional, ergonomic cabin and competitive ride.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 — from €42,350 (84 kWh Premium) in Romania; more fluid design and 800 V charging on some grades.
Volkswagen ID.7 — larger, often pricier; EV4 feels younger and potentially better value at comparable equipment.
BMW i4 — from about €69,636; prestige and refinement, but much higher money.
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths: range claims, ride comfort, thoughtful interior layout, distinctive design, sensible pricing on lower trims.
Weaknesses: 204 hp FWD is not thrilling; polarising styling; top trims get expensive; no cheap dual-motor option yet.
Verdict
The EV4 Fastback plays several cards at once: style, range, tech and everyday ergonomics. From €41,690 in Romania it is a serious alternative to default EV crossovers and to Model 3 if you want a more conventional cabin without going anonymous. It may feel right after six months of ownership, not just on a first spin—that matters on the Romanian market.
