2017 Kia Forte Sedan and Forte5
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.
