As you know, the Kia Forte has been replaced by the sporty but reliable K4. But this new to the market compact sedan has some pretty tight competition, particularly in the ever-so-reliable and popular Hyundai Elantra. Let’s take a look at everything the 2025 Kia K4 and 2025 Hyundai Elantra two rivals have to offer!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The KIA K4 is new to Kia’s legendary arsenal and in its first generation for 2025.
- The 2025 Kia K4 trims range in price $23,145 to $29,245.
- There are two engine offerings for the K4 that depend on the trim you choose.
2025 Kia K4 vs. 2025 Hyundai Elantra: Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Kia K4 is a new model replacing the Forte. The EV4, an all electric K4, is coming out later this year.
The K4’s trims and prices are as follows:
- LX: $23,145
- LXS: $24,145
- EX: $25,145
- GT-Line: $26,345
- GT-Line Turbo: $29,245
Meanwhile, the Hyundai Elantra enters 2025 with no major changes. However, the former SEL trim has become the SEL Sport, and the Convenience package is now the SEL Convenience.
Its models and starting prices are:
- SE: $23,025
- SEL Sport: $24,150
- Blue hybrid: $26,250
- SEL Convenience: $26,725
- Limited: $27,675
- SEL Sport hybrid: $28,225
- N Line: $29,875
- Limited hybrid: $30,600
Engine, Performance and MPG for the 2025 Kia K4 and 2025 Hyundai Elantra:
The K4 offers two engine options. LX, LXS, and EX models feature a 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) delivering 147 horsepower. The GT-Line trims feature a turbocharged 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and multi-link rear suspension to generate 190 horsepower.
The Elantra also offers two engines:
- A standard 147 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
- An available 201 horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder (N Line)
- Trims are front-wheel drive with a continuously variable automatic (CVT) or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (N Line).
Fuel economy differs between the K4’s trims
- LX: 30 mpg/city and 40 mpg/highway
- LXS and EX: 29 mpg/city and 39 mpg/highway
- GT-Line: 27 mpg/city and 35 mpg/highway
The 2025 Elantra’s fuel economy also differs between trims. Lower trims get 32 mpg/city and 41 mpg/highway, while the higher trims dip to 30/39 mpg city/highway.
Both the K4 and Electra are similar in performance and fuel economy, but the K4’s GT-Line Turbo really steals the show. Sure, the 2025 Hyundai Elantra may offer better MPG, but the K4 GT-Line Turbo’s intercooled engine boosts efficiency and power, giving you a real adventure on wheels!
2025 Kia K4 vs. 2025 Hyundai Elantra: Interior, Features and Comfort
The 2025 Kia K4 is far roomier than the Forte. Occupants enjoy more shoulder, head and legroom than ever before with plenty of room for cargo thanks to the 14.6 cubic feet of trunk cargo space. Seats are also comfortable, with available heated and ventilated front seats. No matter where the adventure takes you, K4 is designed for year-round comfort. While the Elantra has similar dimensions and cargo volume, the K4’s interior creature comforts, particularly its lumbar support and heated seats, make it the more obvious choice.
Which Will You Choose—2025 Kia K4 or 2025 Hyundai Elantra?
The 2025 Hyundai Elantra turns heads with its sleek design, but the Kia K4 is the smarter long-term pick in terms of comfort and reliable performance. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, efficient, and easy-to-live-with sedan, the all-new Kia K4 is built to give you a balanced and rewarding drive. Come in for a test drive!