The Kia K4 (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.8i variant, producing 143 horsepower with an automatic transmission, represented a key offering in Kia’s compact sedan lineup. Produced from 2018 through October 2020, this model occupied a middle-ground position within the K4 range, aiming to balance affordability with a reasonable level of equipment and performance. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a comfortable and practical daily driver, particularly in markets where Kia was expanding its presence. The K4 itself, positioned as a sedan, was a significant model for Kia, representing a step up in design and features compared to earlier offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | K4 |
| Generation | K4 (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5-7.0 l/100 km (36.2 – 33.6 US mpg, 43.5 – 40.4 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 103.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 127.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 176 Nm @ 4500 rpm (129.81 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Nu / G4NB |
| Engine displacement | 1797 cm3 (109.66 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380-1450 kg (3042.38 – 3196.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4720 mm (185.83 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2770 mm (109.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1567-1579 mm (61.69 – 62.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1577-1589 mm (62.09 – 62.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 117 mm (4.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.12 m (36.48 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the K4 1.8i Automatic is the Kia Nu engine, specifically the G4NB code. This 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration and a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The G4NB engine is known for its durability and relatively simple design, making it a cost-effective choice for Kia. The six-speed automatic transmission paired with this engine was a common unit within the Hyundai-Kia group, offering smooth shifts but not particularly sporty performance. It was designed to prioritize fuel efficiency and comfort over aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 143 horsepower and 176 Nm (129.81 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.8L engine and six-speed automatic resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was estimated to be around 10-11 seconds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine often felt strained during quick overtaking maneuvers or uphill climbs. Compared to the more powerful engine options available in the K4 lineup (such as the 1.6L Turbo), this variant prioritized smoothness and ease of driving over outright speed. The automatic transmission, while comfortable, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and didn’t offer any manual shift modes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The K4 1.8i Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and standard safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels, often denoted by “LX” or “EX” designations, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and upgraded interior materials. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available on higher trims. Optional extras could include a sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The K4 1.8i Automatic utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The relatively modest weight of the 1.8i variant (1380-1450 kg) helped to keep braking distances within acceptable limits.
Market Reception & Comparison
The K4 1.8i Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable option in the compact sedan segment. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good value for money. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its turbocharged competitors and that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Compared to other trims in the K4 lineup, the 1.8i Automatic offered the best fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. It was a popular choice for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and comfort over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The Kia K4 1.8i Automatic, while not a performance standout, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Nu engine family, in general, has a reputation for longevity, and the six-speed automatic transmission is known for its robustness. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and practical driving experience at an affordable price. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. While not a collector’s item, the K4 1.8i Automatic remains a viable option for buyers seeking a dependable and economical compact sedan.
