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Sedan Achieves Five Stars in Latin NCAP and Stands Out for Several Positive Points
The Kia K4, direct successor to the Cerato, confirmed its strength by earning five stars in Latin NCAP, with results announced on September 2, 2025.
Expected to arrive in Brazil since the Cerato was discontinued in 2023, the model demonstrated robust performance in all assessed criteria.
The tests included front, side, pole impact, pedestrian protection, and active assistance systems, enhancing the significance of the result in the automotive market.
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Performance Impresses in All Tests
According to Latin NCAP, the midsize sedan recorded 91.87% adult protection, 90.38% child protection, 77.10% pedestrian protection, and 84.30% safety assistance.
Additionally, the model produced in Mexico comes standard with six airbags, ESC, and seatbelt reminders on all seats.
- Frontal and Lateral Impact: structure considered stable, with good protection for head, neck, and chest.
- Child Protection: complete, although there is room for improvement in securing child seats in the center seat.
- Pedestrian Protection: adequate in most of the body, but with weak points near the windshield.
- Active Systems: autonomous emergency braking (AEB), electronic stability control (ESC), and speed assistance (SAS) performed excellently.
Design Philosophy Combines Boldness and Minimalism
The model was highlighted at the 2024 New York Auto Show, when it officially took the position of successor to the Cerato, also known as Forte in some markets.
Following the “Opposites United” philosophy, already applied in other Kia launches, the sedan embraces a fastback body style, vertical headlights, and a rear integrated handle into the pillar.
The LED taillights are connected by a light strip that spans across the trunk lid, emphasizing the modernity of the design.
Inside, minimalism is the highlight: two combined screens dominate the dashboard, but physical controls for climate, media, and volume have been preserved.
This combination balances modernity and practicality, an aspect valued by demanding consumers who do not compromise on functionality.
Mechanics Combine Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Kia K4 2025 offers two distinct engine options.
The first is the 1.6 turbo gasoline engine with 193 hp and 26.9 kgfm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The second option is the 2.0 naturally aspirated engine with 149 hp and 18.2 kgfm, linked to the CVT inherited from the Cerato.
Measuring 4.70 m in length and 1.84 m in width, the model is the largest midsize sedan in its class.
For comparison, the old Cerato measured 4.64 m in length and 1.80 m in width, falling short in external dimensions.
The trunk, with 413 liters, offers competitive and functional capacity within the segment.
Expectations for the Brazilian Market
Despite its strong global performance, Kia has not officially confirmed the arrival of the K4 in Brazil, leaving the market in anticipation.
Meanwhile, the automaker is focusing its efforts on other priorities. Currently, it is working on the homologation of the restyled Stonic and the new Tasman pickup, recently spotted with green plates.
Furthermore, according to Stephan Brodziak, chairman of the Latin NCAP Board, Kia has been making consistent progress towards high-level vehicle safety.
He stated that models like Sportage, K3, and K4 highlight this evolution, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to occupant protection.
Therefore, if the K4 2025 is confirmed, it could compete with icons such as Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra, making a strong presence in the Brazilian market.
A midsize sedan that combines modern design, powerful engines, and top-notch safety is sure to attract discerning consumers, don’t you think?
