What I'm driving: Kia K4 hatchback GT-Line Turbo

Kia K4 hatchback GT-Line Turbo

• MSRP: Starting price: $24,890 (plus $1,195 delivery); As tested: $32,870 for GT-Line Turbo with optional tech package.
• Under the hood: Base 2.0-liter engine with CVT (147 hp/30 mpg) or upgraded 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 8-speed transmission (190 hp/28 mpg).
• Manufacturing site: Mexico.

What's new: The hatchback is a sportier sibling to the entry-level K4 sedan, offering extra headroom for rear-seat passengers and more cargo space.

• The optional turbo engine provides much-needed oomph over the base-level K4 EX model I drove earlier this year.

What I loved: A seamless multiscreen digital display stretches nearly 30 inches across the driver cockpit. Very modern and intuitive.

• The standard suite of driver-assistance features now includes blind-spot and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance systems.
• But for $2,300 extra, you can add a basket of high-tech goodies to the GT-Turbo, including highway driving assist, surround-view cameras and other premium features.
• And you can't beat the value.

What I didn't love: It's just a quibble, but the climate display is partially obscured by the steering wheel.

The bottom line: Great styling and technology at a great price.

I test-drive vehicles in my role as a juror for the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Opinions are my own.