So, can the new K4 compete with the compact class’ best, the Honda Civic? We gathered the nicest versions of each small car, the Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring and Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo to find out.

This particular hare-brained idea came during a recent visit to the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum, my favorite go-to for surprise-and-delight cars. I was surprised and delighted to find one of ...