Sunday Drive: The 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line shines on weekend getaway to St. George
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- Deanne just outside of Snow Canyon with the all-new Kia K4 and the beautiful red rocks of Utah’s Dixie on what proved to be the perfect February day to be out in Southern Utah.
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- Deanne contemplating the beautiful scenery in Utah’s Dixie on a wonderful February day.
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- Getting ready for a hike in Kayenta into the red rock cliffs. The Kia made for the perfect companion for a southern road trip.
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- Inside the 2025 Kia K4.
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- Inside the 2025 Kia K4.
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- The 2025 Kia K4.
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- Inside the 2025 Kia K4.
There’s something undeniably exciting about sliding behind the wheel of a brand-new vehicle, especially when it’s a model that breaks new ground for any of the manufacturers that send us vehicles.
The 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line is exactly that kind of car — a fresh, dynamic sedan that’s redefining what can be expected from the compact segment. As we set out for our weekly drive, we couldn’t wait to see how the K4 GT-Line would handle everything from Springville streets to winding Utah mountain roads.
First impressions always matter, and the K4 GT-Line knew how to make one. The sleek, fastback-inspired design gave it a sporty edge, while the signature “tiger nose” grille and aggressive LED lighting announced its presence with authority.
The 18-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out trim details completed the bold look, giving the car an unmistakable sense of purpose. It was a sedan that looked just as comfortable parked in front of a trendy downtown cafe as it did cruising along the open highway.
As we got inside the cabin of the K4 GT-Line, it felt more like something we would have found in a luxury vehicle than a compact sedan. Kia had clearly put thought into every detail — from the high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces to the ergonomic layout of the dashboard.
The centerpiece was a stunning 30-inch panoramic digital display that seamlessly integrated the instrument cluster and infotainment system. We found it to be intuitive, responsive and packed with features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and of course a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
However, a sedan isn’t just about looks and gadgets; it’s also about the driving experience. Under the hood, the K4 GT-Line came equipped with a 2.0-liter fuel-injected inline-four engine that delivers a spirited 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque.
Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the car offered us smooth, confident acceleration, whether we were merging onto the freeway or navigating tight city corners. The steering was sharp and responsive, and the suspension struck a perfect balance between sporty handling and ride comfort.
Kia also offers an upgrade to the powertrain in the form of a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that produces a nice 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, something a sedan aficionado would want to include in the package!
We decided to put the K4 GT-Line to the test with a trip from Springville to St. George, a route that offered a mix of highway driving, scenic backroads and plenty of elevation changes. Our weekend plans included seeing our niece, Casey Harris, perform on her trumpet with the Southern Utah Symphony and some hiking amongst the red rocks of Utah’s Dixie.
On the highway, the K4 was quiet and composed, with minimal road noise and a refined ride that made long stretches feel effortless. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were welcome features, adding an extra layer of convenience and safety.
As we approached St. George and its iconic red rock landscapes, the K4 GT-Line really began to shine. The engine provided plenty of power for uphill stretches, while the precise steering and well-tuned suspension made tackling winding roads a joy.
The car felt planted and secure, with just the right amount of feedback to keep the drive engaging. And thanks to the available all-wheel drive, we felt confident if the road conditions were to become a bit more challenging.
Fuel efficiency was another area where the K4 GT-Line impresses. With an EPA rating of 29 mpg city and 39 mpg highway, it’s an economical choice for drivers who want performance without sacrificing efficiency. Over the course of our weekend trip, we found those numbers to be pretty accurate, even with some spirited driving in the mix.
One of the standout features of the K4 GT-Line was its suite of advanced safety technologies. Kia’s Drive Wise system includes everything from forward collision avoidance and blind-spot monitoring to rear cross-traffic alert and a 360-degree camera system. It’s a comprehensive package that provides peace of mind, whether you’re navigating busy city streets or cruising down the highway.
Of course, no review would be complete without mentioning the practical aspects. The K4 GT-Line offered plenty of interior space, with comfortable seating for five and ample legroom in both the front and rear. The trunk space was generous for a compact sedan, and the rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items when needed.
During our hikes through Snow Canyon State Park and the surrounding red rock trails, we appreciated the K4’s thoughtful design. The wide trunk opening made it easy to load our hiking gear, and the dual-zone climate control was a blessing after a day in the desert heat — yes, it was 75 degrees in Utah’s Dixie in early February!
The ventilated front seats quickly cooled us down, making the drive back to our hotel as relaxing as possible. The panoramic sunroof also gave us stunning views of the star-filled night sky as we returned from Casey’s impressive performance, adding an unexpected touch of luxury to our weekend adventure.
As we wrapped up the week with the 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line, having enjoyed an unforgettable performance by Casey and explored the stunning red rocks of St. George, it was clear that this was not just another compact sedan. It was a vehicle that combined style, performance and practicality in a way that few others in its class can match. With its bold design, advanced technology and engaging driving dynamics, the K4 GT-Line is a standout choice for anyone looking for a car that’s as fun to drive as it is functional.
Base price: $25,190
Destination charge: $1,555
Price as driven: $28,345
