In a market swamped by nonsense names, it is refreshing to find a simple numerical step-through in Kia’s all-electric range. The EV4, therefore, sits between the company’s EV3 and EV5. The EV3 is the award winning small SUV while the EV5 is the larger family SUV. In between is the EV4, a mid sized hatchback and the first all-electric model from the company to be manufactured in Europe.

Built on Kia’s dedicated 400V Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV4 offers a choice of standard (58.3kWh) or long-range (81.4kWh) battery configurations supplying power to a front-mounted 150kW (201bhp) electric motor.

Review model is the EV4 ‘GT-Line’ fitted with the long range battery pack giving a driving range of 362 miles from a single charge. Recharging with an 11kW AC charger (10-to-80%) takes 5 hours and 20 minutes while a DC 150kW rapid charger reduces that time down to 29 minutes. Recharging locally in a cold spell, a 319 mile range was given.

Power output is 201bhp with a torque figure of 283Nm. This returns a 0-62mph time of 7.9 seconds with a given top speed of 105mph. On road, and the car fulfils its role, providing a spacious and sensible solution to entice consumers to seriously consider it against the competition. Its compact size belies the generous 5-seater cabin space, making it easy to place in city traffic. A compliant suspension set-up provides a successful compromise between handling and passenger comfort. However, with the solid battery underpinnings, tyre noise responds quickly to coarser road surfaces.

placeholder image — Review model is the EV4 ‘GT-Line’ fitted with the long range battery pack giving a driving range of 362 miles from a single charge.

With a sensible initial acceleration time, throttle progression is smooth, while steering wheel mounted paddles allow for driver preferences for the regenerative braking response. The system offers four different levels of regenerative braking (off, 1, 2 and 3). With its ‘i-Pedal’ setting activated by a long pull of the left paddle, the regenerative braking system can also bring the car smoothly to a complete stop. As is now common, drive modes offer a choice of five different settings – Normal, Eco, Sport, My Drive and Snow.

For the driver, direction and parking choices are controlled on the right hand steering column stalk and a fully integrated 30-inch instrument panel houses both driver information and infotainment – 12.3 inch for the driver and 12.3 inch for the infotainment. Aircon has its own 5.3 inch panel. Split folding 60:40 rear seats allow for luggage space to increase from 490 litres to 1,415 litres.

The vehicle’s comprehensive ADAS suite includes Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear-Cross Traffic Collision. It also features several technological advancements to provide market-leading convenience and connectivity. This includes Kia’s smartphone-based Digital Key. This provides simple access, engine start and remote-control functions as you approach the car. Access can be shared with up to 15 devices, including an Apple Watch, via the app.

Standard equipment includes LED headlights with automatic control, while the ‘GT-Line’ specification adds 19-inch wheels, gloss black exterior highlights, rear privacy glass, power adjustable front seats with heating, leather covered heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, and automatic flush door handles which proved unpopular in our recent cold weather spell.

The model is priced from just under £40,000 on the road, supported by a 7-year, 100,000 mile warranty. BIK is at 3% for business users.