Kia’s keeping the manual and wagons alive with the K4 Sportswagon

Earlier this week, we reported that Kia unveiled the EV2 crossover, its latest addition to a rapidly growing electric lineup. While Kia continues to keep EV buyers satisfied, the brand is also cooking up something for a more niche audience. After debuting as a sedan and hatchback a couple of years ago, the K4 range is now expanding with a more practical wagon body style.

Dubbed the K4 Sportswagon, Kia’s latest compact for international markets retains the sharp styling of its sedan and hatchback siblings. The range starts with a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 113 hp, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. Buyers can opt for a mild-hybrid version of the same engine, which can be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. That transmission is standard on the larger 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offered in two states of tune: 148 hp or 177 hp.

In hatchback form, the K4 can be had with a more potent 190 hp version of the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine paired with an eight-speed automatic. Kia has not announced plans to offer it for the wagon. As an alternative, a hybrid variant is confirmed to be on the way, though Kia has yet to disclose specifications or performance figures. Inside, the cabin is instantly familiar, carrying over the same dashboard layout, including dual 12.3-inch displays and a centrally mounted 5.3-inch touchscreen dedicated to climate controls.

Where the K4 Sportswagon truly distinguishes itself is in outright practicality. With the rear seats up, it offers 604 liters of cargo space, a substantial 166 liter increase over the hatchback. Fold the rear bench down, and capacity expands to a generous 1,439 liters, making it well-suited for families, long trips, or hauling bulky gear. Opting for the mild-hybrid system does come with a trade-off, however, as the additional hardware eats into cargo volume. In those models, capacity drops to 482 liters with the seats up and 1,317 liters when folded, still usable figures but noticeably less than the standard versions. Unfortunately, the K4 Sportswagon is only available for the European market for now.

Would you like to see the K4 Sportswagon make its way to the Philippine market? Wagons may be a rare sight locally, but the K4 Sportswagon’s blend of compact dimensions, car-like handling, and genuinely useful cargo space could make it an appealing alternative to the sea of crossovers and SUVs on sale today.

We hold out hope that wagons and sedans make a comeback in our market. For now, check out the Kia Car Guide on AutoDeal.com.ph.