PLX Devices is once again collecting funds for Kiwi 4, a new generation of OBD2 adapter through Kickstarter. Kiwi 4 is the four generation of their OBD2 adapter. This Kickstarter project ends in May 2018, and the backers will receive Kiwi 4 in November 2018.

Read this first: Kiwi 4 OBD Adapter – Width, Connection Issues, etc

It has the same dimension as the previous model, Kiwi 3. Kiwi 4 includes all features of Kiwi 3 and several new features.

What’s New?

Kiwi 4 can switch between two modes. Smartphone mode, and Self-run mode. The self-run mode doesn’t require a persistent connection between the adapter and smartphone. When using Micro SD card, there is no worry about an interruption in data logging.

You will have Audio Alert / Warning from a built-in speaker. You can configure this feature in various ways. For example, you can use as a shift indicator by setting to trigger the alerts when RPM is 4500.  Or as a speed warning by setting to trigger when the vehicle speed exceeds 75 mph.

A high-performance accelerometer allows you to measure real-time horsepower and torque without a need of smartphones’ sensors.

Kiwi 4 has a slot for Micro SD card. With using Self-run mode, you can record your driving without a smartphone and later download to your computer.

What’s better?

  • Some features get better than the previous model, Kiwi 3.
  • When paired with Kiwi OBD app, it’s up to 8x faster than competitors and twice as fast as Kiwi 3.
  • It uses the latest wireless technology, Bluetooth 4.2.
  • It consumes less power when sleep, 0.03 W (Kiwi 3 = 0.05 W)

Other features

  • It’s the smallest OBD2 diagnostic adapter on the market. Although Kiwi 4 are added some brand new technology like Micro SD compatibility and built-in speaker, the size of the adapter is the same as Kiwi 3. Dimension: 2.0″ x 1.3″ x 0.9″
  • Cross-Platform – It’s compatible with the following devices, Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux.
  • There are many 3rd party OBD apps available for Android and iOS devices. Kiwi 4 is compatible with many of them.

About Kiwi OBD app

The purchase of Kiwi 4 does not include the Kiwi OBD app. The app is available at Google Play Store and Apple App Store. It’s free to try, but the trial lasts for only an hour. The basic license costs $9.99, and some add-ons cost $4.99 each. You can purchase a deluxe license which includes all (MultiGauges, Diagnostics, Fuel Efficiency, Video Overlay, Data Logging, and Performance) for $24.95.

Timeline of Kickstarter Project

PLX Devices plans to collect funds through Kickstarter until May 2018. Kickstarter backers will receive Kiwi 4 in November 2018. You may get the adapter with a discount by pledging this project. The retail price will be $149. For more details, please visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/plxdevices/kiwi4.

Conclusion

All generations of Kiwi adapters are reliable. Kiwi 3 has become small and compact. And cross-platform and 3rd-party OBD app compatibility make it one of the most versatile OBD2 adapters on the market. Kiwi 4 is added some brand new features. At the time of writing, not sure yet, but those features are interesting. The only problem is it’s expensive. So is their mobile app.

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2 thoughts on “Preview of Kiwi 4 OBD Car to Smartphone Interface Reimagined

  • January 18, 2019 at 9:47 pm
    Permalink

    bought the Kiwi4 early Jan 2019. ever since got heaps of issues like data logging – always closing app. impossible readings like 250kph at 2600revs at idle, vehicle name keeps deleting, bluetooth connection not consistent, no fault codes but when use a proper scan tool fault is detected on MAF sensor. submitted it to their support centre and everytime I checked – issues are closed without any solution.

    Reply
    • January 29, 2019 at 1:00 am
      Permalink

      Yes, there are many problems. You may contact PLX Devices about problems or warranty. But, make sure that register the item at plxdevices.com/warranty.
      You can contact via Facebook, follow the instruction of the white card saying “WARRANTY REGISTER” included in the box.

      Reply

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