NAIAS: Kia Updates Forte Sedan And Forte5 For The 2017MY

Following the the unveiling of the Korean market K3, Kia introduced the updated for 2017 Forte sedan and Forte5 hatch for North America in Detroit.

Both body styles of the Forte benefit from some light touches to their exterior, including revised bumpers, grille and lighting units, while the higher trim levels pack standard LED DRLs and taillights.

The hatchback maintains its three trim levels, the LX, EX and SX, but each one brings something new to the 2017MY, mostly features that used to be optional, such as Android Auto & Apple CarPlay connectivity on the UVO eServices with a 7-inch touch screen, remote keyless entry, leather seats, heated front seats and more, depending on the selected version.

When it comes to the sedan, it gained a new S mid-range trim, positioned between the entry-level EX and the range-topping LX, packing a sports-tuned suspension, 16-inch wheels, LED DRLs, rear spoiler and exhaust tip. It also gets heated leather seats, 10-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, Smart Key, push-button start, and the UVO3 telematics infotainment system.

While the five-door is powered by a standard 2.0-liter GDI, connected to a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic, with a 1.6-liter turbo GDI and a seven-speed dual-clutch for the SX, the sedan has a new 2.0-liter Atkinson I-4 engine, replacing the 1.8-liter unit, paired with either a standard six-speed manual or an automatic. A 2.0-liter GDI I-4, mated to a six-speed auto, is found under the hood of the EX.

The Kia Forte sedan will be built at the firm’s manufacturing facility in Monterrey, Mexico, and it will be the first vehicle to be assembled at the company’s second North American plant. Production will begin in the first half of 2016.

Full specs and pricing info will be released close to their launch.