• A Kia K4/Ceed hatchback was involved in an accident during a test drive in Europe.
  • The prototype was apparently hit from behind and seriously damaged.
  • The car was still drivable, but the rear wheel was noticeably bent.

Accidents are a part of life, but prototypes are rarely affected. However, this Kia K4/Ceed Hatchback is a rare exception, as spy photographers have reported that the model was hit from behind by another vehicle.

Details are limited, but that definitely seems to be the case, as we can see shredded camouflage and what appears to be a broken rear bumper. Part of the wheel arch is also visible, and you can see that the rear suspension is clearly out of whack. In particular, the rear wheel on the driver’s side is pushed so far forward that it’s almost dragging.

More: New Kia K4 hatchback teased, will appear alongside the sedan in the North American lineup

Otherwise, there isn’t much to see as the prototype is heavily camouflaged. Of course, that doesn’t matter much as Kia unveiled the model during the New York Auto Show.

There are some subtle differences between the North American and European variants, however, including different daytime running lights, which are white in Europe but yellow in the US. The front bumper also appears less extreme, but this could be due to different trim.

It is not yet entirely clear whether the car will be called K4 or Ceed in Europe, but the former seems possible, as Kia previously stated: “Pricing, exact timing of availability in the European market, equipment details and other details regarding the K4 are subject to future announcements.”

Regardless of what happens in Europe, the K4 hatchback in the U.S. will likely mirror the sedan and be offered with two different engines. The entry-level model is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 147 hp (110 kW / 149 PS) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque. Customers can also opt for a 1.6-liter turbo with 190 hp (142 kW / 193 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque.

Baldauf / Carscoops