We’ve seen compact electric hot hatches like the Alpine A290 and larger ones such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, but the market has so far lacked a true electric contender in the traditional Volkswagen Golf GTI size and spirit.

One major reason for the shortage of such family-sized electric hot hatches has been the absence of suitable base models. Most five-door, five-seat EVs around the 4.3-metre length mark have turned into crossovers, largely due to the packaging requirements of their battery packs. However, as battery technology evolves, that excuse is beginning to lose traction.

Enter the Kia EV4 – arguably the first electric family hatchback built in the classic mould. Now, Kia has gone a step further by developing the EV4 GT, an electric hot hatch designed to rival the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI in both size and intent. Its closest conceptual competitors include the Cupra Born, Volkswagen ID.3, and MG 4, though none of these models manage to dip below 1500mm in height — something the EV4 GT achieves, marking a significant milestone for performance-focused EVs.

So, what exactly is the EV4 GT? Mechanically, it’s nearly identical to the new EV3 GT crossover and forms part of Kia’s three-model GT offensive launching in 2026, alongside the larger EV5 GT. This model roll-out underscores Kia’s renewed commitment to driving excitement under the guidance of R&D chief Manfred Harrer, who acknowledged that while Kia’s design and desirability had advanced rapidly, its cars’ dynamic appeal needed to catch up. The GT series is his direct response to that challenge, and the EV4 GT could be the most convincing effort yet.

In terms of driving character, the EV4 GT aligns more closely with the Golf R than the Golf GTI. This is not only because it features all-wheel drive – courtesy of a 94bhp rear motor supplementing the 194bhp front motor from the standard EV4 – but also due to how it behaves on the road. The suspension setup, with new springs and revised valving for the three-mode dampers, provides a distinct transformation. The 288bhp EV4 GT offers impressive comfort and compliance while maintaining strong grip and stability when pushed, although its body control and precision ultimately fall short of the benchmark set by Volkswagen’s performance flagship.

Because of its twin-motor layout, the EV4 GT feels more like a front-driven hot hatch, unlike Kia’s larger, rear-biased GT models. The rear motor primarily serves to balance cornering dynamics rather than enabling oversteer antics. Still, the EV4 GT feels slightly more agile mid-corner than its crossover sibling, the EV3 GT, particularly when lifting off the throttle gently.

There’s no mechanical differential lock on the front axle, but Kia employs a torque-vectoring system that uses both regenerative and friction braking to help the car pivot through corners. Traction levels are good, and during testing in Korea, there was no evidence of axle tramp or torque steer. However, when pushed hard through tight bends, the torque-vectoring system can reveal its limits, resulting in a less refined corner exit.

The EV4 GT’s low centre of gravity plays a major role in its cornering ability. While the steering isn’t razor-sharp, it’s noticeably more precise than that of the EV3 GT. The steering feedback feels more natural, with better self-centering and a pleasing elasticity as you lean into turns. Overall, the EV4 GT offers more engagement for drivers who enjoy the tactile side of driving rather than just high-speed security.

Performance figures are impressive: Kia claims a 0–62mph time of 5.6 seconds, though onboard data logs suggest it can achieve closer to five seconds flat. Like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, it features a virtual gearshift mode, and pressing the GT button on the steering wheel activates the most aggressive settings for power delivery and chassis stiffness.

The EV4 GT rides on 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero 4S tyres sized 245/45 at all corners. Behind them lie upgraded brakes, with eye-catching neon-coloured calipers on this prototype. Brake feel remains the weakest element of the package, reminding us that Kia’s GT line is positioned slightly below Hyundai’s more hardcore N division in performance commitment.

Inside, the EV4 GT benefits from meaningful cabin upgrades. The new sports seats are the highlight – they sit lower than the standard EV4’s and feature a combination of Alcantara-like fabric and leather trim, adding both comfort and a sporty aesthetic. The overall interior ambience is refined, with tasteful performance-oriented details.

Our early drive in Korea reveals that the Kia EV4 GT holds plenty of promise. There’s potential for even more driver engagement with further tuning, but as it stands, this model proves that Kia’s electric hatches can deliver genuine driving enjoyment alongside their handsome design.

Technical Specifications: Kia EV4 GT