Kia EV4 to integrate Google's 'Google Points of Interest'

Kia has announced that the EV4 - its first ever electric hatchback - is soon also set to be its first ever model to include Google Points of Interest (POIs) as part of its navigation system.

If you're wondering what exactly entails a POI, the term, in Google-speak, simply refers any establishment with a name and location that is recognised and marked as a pin on Google Maps.

The integration of Google POIs provides access to additional details, including parking options, opening hours, and busy periods, for a driver's selected destination

The inclusion of Google POIs in the EV4's navigation system thus means that drivers will not only get comprehensive turn-by-turn routes to their desired POIs, but also be able to access extensive details about them when on the go, including parking options, opening hours, busy periods, and much more. (Essentially, just imagine what you can already do with Google Maps via your smartphone or a web browser when not driving.)

Google is also highlighting the always-up-to-date quality Google POIs. With real-time updates provided by Google users (such as recent photos and restaurant reviews), the tech giant believes that the quality of location information can be improved and enhanced continuously.

Kia states that the EV4, which is set to be launched in the U.S.A. in the first quarter of 2026, will come with Google POIs from the very start of its production.

But other Kia owners need not fret about being excluded; they'll be able to receive a free update as long as their cars come with the brand's connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC). Other upcoming Kia models with ccNC will also come with Google POIs out of the box.