2026 Kia K4: NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings, Price
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
In its segment, the 2026 Kia K4 scores well across safety and reliability, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for this vehicle.
- Starting MSRP
- $22,290 - $28,890
- EPA Combined MPG
- 28 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $2,150 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 5 / 10
- Recalls on File
- 1 recall on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $1,000 over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 2 on file
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $1,009 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.66
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
The 2026 Kia K4 is a Sedan priced from $22,290 to $28,890 with 8 trims. For a daily driver, fuel cost and reliability matter most. Both are covered below.
- Avg repair cost $280 per year below Sedan average
- 5-year ownership cost $6,634 above budget Sedans average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
2026 Kia K4 at a Glance
Compared with similar sedans in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Kia K4 are high published crash-test results and an above-average RepairPal reliability rating, with lower estimated ownership costs for its vehicle class. The main caution is that estimated five-year cost runs high.
- safety
- reliability
- ownership cost
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest Sedans 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable Sedans 2026 →
- AAA estimates $9,956 per year in non-fuel ownership costs for the Medium Sedan class, including insurance ($1,572), maintenance ($1,786), and depreciation ($3,462).
Cautions in the data
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup still lands about $6,634 above the similar-vehicle average.
- Fuel cost lands in the middle of its comparison group rather than standing out.
Similar vehicles to compare
How Safe Is the 2026 Kia K4?
The 2026 Kia K4 is one of 99% of Sedans to earn NHTSA's top 5-star rating. It also received TSP+ from IIHS, which tests different crash configurations. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
99% of Sedans share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 9.9%
NHTSA and IIHS run separate crash test programs with different configurations. Checking both gives you a fuller read on how the 2026 Kia K4 handles real-world collisions.
How Did the 2026 Kia K4 Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS recognized the 2026 Kia K4 with a TSP+ award. This designation reflects strong performance across frontal, side, and roof strength evaluations, plus crash avoidance capabilities. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | A Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | A Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Seat Belt Reminders | A Acceptable |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Small cars
Lab testing and real-world performance do not always match. The recall section below covers any defects NHTSA or Kia have identified since the 2026 K4 went on sale.
Does the 2026 Kia K4 Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for the 2026 Kia K4, affecting SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE. This is typical for Sedans, which average 1 recall campaign. Recall repairs are provided free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
1 recall campaign on file with NHTSA.
Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE
Most recent: March 2026
What Do 2026 Kia K4 Owners Report to NHTSA?
NHTSA has 2 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Kia K4. This is below the average of 6 complaints for 2026 Sedans. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
2 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-02-25
Most-reported problem areas
- ADAS / Safety Tech2
- Steering1
- Speed Control1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-04-16.
For a vehicle driven daily, fuel cost compounds fast. The difference between 30 and 40 MPG is roughly $400 per year at average gas prices and 15,000 miles.
What Is the 2026 Kia K4 Fuel Economy?
The 2026 Kia K4 achieves up to 28 combined MPG according to EPA testing, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,150. That is $427 more per year than the $1,723 average for budget Sedans. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| LXS FWD GAS | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| EX Sedan CVT | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| EX Hatchback CVT | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| GT-Line Sedan CVT | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| GT-Line Hatchback CVT | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| GT-Line Turbo Sedan AT | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| GT-Line Turbo Hatchback AT | 28 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel cost is $10,750 based on EPA data.
For a daily driver, fuel is the cost you see. Insurance, depreciation, and maintenance are the costs you feel at tax time. AAA estimates all of them for the Medium Sedan class.
What Does the 2026 Kia K4 Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Kia K4 ranges from $70,240 to $83,020 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Medium Sedan class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,786 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,572 per year |
| Depreciation | $3,462 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $613 per year |
| Financing | $854 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $9,956 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.66 per mile |
For a daily commute, the most fuel-efficient trim often delivers the best long-term value. The comparison below shows fuel economy, price, and estimated cost for all 8 options.
How Do the 2026 Kia K4 Trims Compare?
8 trims are available for the 2026 Kia K4, spanning $22,290 to $28,890. All trims use a Gasoline powertrain. Compare specifications and estimated costs in the table below. Prices are MSRP before destination and fees.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Horsepower | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX FWD GAS | $22,290 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 147 hp | 2,956 lbs | $78,820 |
| LXS FWD GAS | $23,390 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 147 hp | 2,956 lbs | $79,920 |
| EX Sedan CVT | $24,490 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 147 hp | 3,000 lbs | $81,020 |
| EX Hatchback CVT | $24,990 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 147 hp | 3,080 lbs | $82,020 |
| GT-Line Sedan CVT | $25,490 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 147 hp | 3,161 lbs | $82,020 |
| GT-Line Hatchback CVT | $25,990 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 147 hp | 3,228 lbs | $83,020 |
| GT-Line Turbo Sedan AT | $28,390 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 190 hp | 3,280 lbs | $70,240 |
| GT-Line Turbo Hatchback AT | $28,890 | 28 MPG | $2,150 per year | 190 hp | 3,338 lbs | $70,740 |
The Kia K4 lineup has expanded from 5 trims in 2025 to 8 trims in 2026. The entry price has increased $300 since 2025.
New trims since 2025
added 2026
- LX FWD GAS
- LXS FWD GAS
- EX Sedan CVT
- EX Hatchback CVT
- GT-Line Sedan CVT
- GT-Line Hatchback CVT
- GT-Line Turbo Sedan AT
- GT-Line Turbo Hatchback AT
Trims no longer available
last available 2025
- LX
- LXS
- EX
- GT-Line
- GT-Line Turbo
View full trim timeline (2025–2026)
| Trim | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| LX | $21,990 33 MPG | — |
| LXS | $22,990 33 MPG | — |
| EX | $23,990 33 MPG | — |
| GT-Line | $25,190 33 MPG | — |
| GT-Line Turbo | $28,090 33 MPG | — |
| LX FWD GAS | — | $22,290 28 MPG |
| LXS FWD GAS | — | $23,390 28 MPG |
| EX Sedan CVT | — | $24,490 28 MPG |
| EX Hatchback CVT | — | $24,990 28 MPG |
| GT-Line Sedan CVT | — | $25,490 28 MPG |
| GT-Line Hatchback CVT | — | $25,990 28 MPG |
| GT-Line Turbo Sedan AT | — | $28,390 28 MPG |
| GT-Line Turbo Hatchback AT | — | $28,890 28 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
The trim comparison above covers what you pay at purchase. The reliability data below covers what you pay to maintain it over time.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Kia K4?
The 2026 Kia K4 scores 4.0 out of 5.0 on RepairPal's reliability index, above the average for budget Sedans. RepairPal data reflects repair frequency and severity from shops nationwide. Source: RepairPal.
Kia backs the 2026 K4 with the warranty terms shown below. Coverage begins from the original purchase date and varies by component.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Kia K4 Come With?
Here is what Kia covers at no cost for the 2026 K4. Basic coverage handles most defects. Powertrain coverage protects the engine and transmission for a longer period. Both start from the original purchase date.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
What Are the 2026 Kia K4 Specs?
Dimensions, weight, and powertrain details for the 2026 Kia K4. These figures are published by Kia and apply to the base configuration unless noted. Specific trims may differ.
EPA vehicle class: Mid-size car
| Engine | 2L I4, 1.6L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 147 - 190 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 91.1 - 115.8 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $149 - $177 |
| Torque | 132 - 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic, 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal |
| Est. Range per Tank | 347 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| Length | 174.4 - 185.4 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 72.8 in |
| Height | 55.9 - 56.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 107.1 in |
| Curb Weight | 2,956 - 3,338 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Kia K4?
- Number of available trims changed
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
- Recall status changed
That is the complete data picture for the 2026 Kia K4. For a daily commuter, fuel cost and reliability are usually the deciding factors, and both are covered above. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2026 Kia K4 FAQ
Which 2026 Kia K4 trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 8 available trims, the GT-Line Turbo Sedan AT has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $70,240, starting at $28,390 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $83,020. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Kia K4?
Vehicles similar to the 2026 Kia K4 in price and segment include 2026 Hyundai Elantra, 2026 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2026 Honda Civic. The Hyundai Elantra is the closest in price (starting at $22,625, 5-star NHTSA, 31 MPG). Each has its own fact sheet with EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, and cost data for comparison. Browse all 2026 Sedans.
What changed on the 2026 Kia K4 from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 8 new trims were added, 5 trims were dropped, and the entry price increased by $300 for the Kia K4 lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Kia K4 cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Kia K4 include about $830 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $179 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,009 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Where is Kia based?
Kia is a South Korea-based automaker. The 2026 Kia K4 may be assembled in a different country than where Kia is headquartered. Check the window sticker or VIN decoder for the specific assembly location of any individual vehicle. See our South Korea-brand cars 2026 list.
What other Kia models are available for 2026?
Each 2026 Kia model on this site has its own fact sheet covering available safety, fuel, reliability, cost, and recall data. Visit our Kia models page for the full lineup.
What does the 2026 Kia K4 cost per mile to drive?
Based on AAA ownership cost estimates and EPA fuel data, the 2026 Kia K4 costs approximately 66.4 cents per mile to operate, including fuel, insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing. Actual cost per mile depends on your annual mileage, driving habits, and location.
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Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.