Kia will introduce a simulated manual gearshift across all versions of its upcoming EV4, aiming to enhance driving engagement in the affordable EV segment, a source familiar with the company’s plans told Carscoops.
The system, which debuted on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and later appeared on the Kia EV6 GT, allows drivers to shift through virtual gears using paddle shifters while software adjusts power delivery to mimic the behavior of an internal combustion engine. Initially developed for Hyundai-Kia’s high-performance models, Kia now plans to roll out the feature across the entire EV4 lineup.
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While all EV4 variants will include the simulated gearshift, only the high-performance EV4 GT will take the experience further by incorporating a fake rev limiter, requiring precise “shifts” to maintain optimal acceleration. Kia has not confirmed whether the system will also include synthetic engine sounds or simulated torque dips, as seen in the Ioniq 5 N.
The EV4, set to debut at Kia’s EV Day 2025 in Spain on February 27, will be offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles. The brand has yet to reveal full technical specifications or interior details, but early spy images suggest a dashboard design closely resembling the 2023 concept model.
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Meanwhile, Kia’s EV5 SUV, which is set to launch in Europe and the U.S. later this year, will not include the simulated manual gearshift at launch, though it could be integrated in a future update.
Kia EV4 Gallery
