Kia develops electric EV4 GT hot hatch

Kia is developing a high-performance GT version of its electric EV4 hatchback, targeting the growing electric hot hatch segment.

The Korean manufacturer teased the variant at the international launch of the standard EV4, showing images featuring green brake calipers, performance wheels and an aggressive front bumper design similar to styling cues used on the EV6 GT.

The EV4 GT is expected to use dual electric motors delivering all-wheel drive and up to 300kW of power, a significant increase from the standard model’s 150kW front-wheel-drive setup. This would position it against competitors including the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, MG4 XPower and Volkswagen Golf R.

Performance is likely to be competitive with established rivals. The current Golf R produces 245kW while the Audi RS 3 generates 294kW, with the latter capable of acceleration into the high three-second bracket for the 0–100km/h sprint.

Pricing expected above $100k

With the current EV4 range topping out at $75,990 in New Zealand, the GT variant is likely to exceed $100,000. This would position it below the Ioniq 5 N, which retails for almost $150,000 locally.

The EV4 GT is expected to incorporate Kia’s Virtual Gear Shift system (VGS) from the EV6 GT, which simulates the sound and feel of a petrol V6 engine with an eight-speed transmission. Additional performance features may include an electronic limited-slip differential similar to the EV9 GT, adaptive dampers, upgraded brakes and retuned steering.

Kia’s marketing director for Europe David Hilbert told Auto Express the EV4 GT was “about showing what we’re capable of in terms of delivering a great vehicle that you can use every day, but also have that kind of fun factor.”

He says the GT philosophy focuses on “the thrill of the journey…having a great driving experience. So our GT philosophy is much more about that kind of driving pleasure, having great times.”

Hilbert distinguished Kia’s approach from Hyundai’s N performance brand, saying “N is much more that kind of extreme, racing focus…our’s is more about everyday driving, but with a bit of….edginess.”

Hyundai is reportedly developing its own electric hot hatch, the Ioniq 3 N, which would likely use similar mechanical components to the EV4 GT.