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The family sedan, once a mainstay of Australian roads, is rapidly disappearing from showrooms. For generations, vehicles like the Holden Commodore, Ford Falcon, Toyota Camry and Mitsubishi Magna defined family transport in the country. Today, however, most manufacturers have abandoned the mid-size and large sedan segments, favouring the growing popularity of sport utility vehicles (SUVs).
Kia is a notable exception. Although it discontinued the Stinger and Optima models, the brand continues to offer sedans with the newly released K4, positioned as a replacement for the Cerato. Despite being classified as a ‘small car’, the K4 boasts dimensions that rival those of larger sedans from the past.
The 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line measures 4.7 meters in length, just 18 centimeters shorter than the 2006 Holden Commodore VE and the final Opel-built Commodore released in 2020. Its wheelbase, a key indicator of cabin space, is only 10 centimeters less than the final Commodore and 19 centimeters shorter than the VE Commodore. This translates to a surprisingly spacious interior capable of comfortably accommodating families.
The K4’s size offers a compelling alternative to the SUV dominance. Priced from $32,090 for the entry-level S model, it represents a more affordable option than many comparable SUVs. The range-topping GT-Line, tested, is priced at $43,790. For comparison, the Kia Sportage GT-Line, a similar-sized SUV, starts at $54,490 (AWD). This price difference provides significant savings for buyers prioritizing space and fuel efficiency over all-wheel drive capability.
The K4 GT-Line is well-equipped, avoiding the perception of being a stripped-down, entry-level vehicle often associated with smaller sedans. Powering the K4 is a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 140kW of power and 265Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While generally responsive, the transmission can exhibit some hesitation at lower speeds.
The GT-Line features a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, contributing to a responsive chassis, although the ride can be firm on certain road surfaces. The driving experience of the K4 feels more akin to a mid-size car than the smaller sedans of previous generations.
The interior of the K4 is roomy and well-appointed, offering a level of equipment comparable to higher-conclude Australian sedans of the past, such as the Holden Calais or Ford Fairlane. The K4’s front-engine, front-wheel drive configuration is traditional for this class of vehicle, with no rear-wheel drive or six-cylinder engine options available.
The decline of the family sedan is a notable shift in the Australian automotive landscape. While models like the Commodore and Falcon retain a loyal following, the K4 offers a modern alternative for those seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and value-for-money vehicle without opting for an SUV. Its combination of space, dynamics, and price point positions it as a unique offering in a market increasingly dominated by SUVs.
