Kia EV4 vs Lexus ES
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Kia EV4 starts from $59,190 before on-road costs, while the Lexus ES opens at $73,900. That makes the Kia EV4 the more affordable entry point by $14,710.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $65,109 and $81,290 respectively.
The Kia EV4 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Lexus ES, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Kia EV4 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Lexus ES gets a 12.3-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Kia EV4 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and V2L that you will not find on the Lexus ES. The Lexus ES counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, panoramic roof and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Kia EV4 uses a Electric Motor producing 150kW and 283Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.7 seconds.
The Lexus ES responds with a Hybrid making 160kW and 221Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.9 seconds.
The Lexus ES has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Kia EV4 is 1.2s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Kia EV4 measures 4,730mm long on a 2,820mm wheelbase, 245mm shorter than the Lexus ES at 4,975mm (2,870mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus ES generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 435L in the Kia EV4 and 473L in the Lexus ES, giving the Lexus ES a 38L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.9m to 11.4m
Based on 10.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV4) vs 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus ES). The Kia EV4 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus ES).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kia EV4 if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus ES if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV4 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Lexus ES has a clear edge. The Kia EV4 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Kia EV4 and Lexus ES?
The Kia EV4 is the cheapest at $59,190 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus ES by $14,710.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus ES uses the least fuel at 5.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Kia EV4 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus ES has the largest boot at 473L.
Which can tow the most?
The Lexus ES has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia EV4 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus ES makes the most power at 160kW. The Kia EV4 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.7s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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