The Kia Forte is one of the brand’s best selling
models and the company has released pictures of the new hatchback variant in
South Korea. Called the K3 GT, the model will debut next month and it will be
based on the latest version of the K3 which was launched in February.
The K3 GT is performance-oriented model which has a lot in common with the Ceed
GT. However, the two models have unique styling which sets them apart. Speaking of styling, the K3 GT
has a dark chrome grille with red accents and GT badging. The car has also been
equipped with gloss black mirror caps, sportier side skirts and 18-inch alloy
wheels with red accents.
The sporty styling continues out back as the K3 GT
has a gloss black diffuser which is flanked by a dual exhaust system with
bright tips. Elsewhere, there are BMW-like taillights, a short rear spoiler and
an aggressive fascia. Kia also claims the profile is “reminiscent of a coupe,” but we’re
definitely not seeing it.
Regardless of that little white lie, the Kia K3 GT
should offer some pretty decent performance as the model has a turbocharged
1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 201 hp and 265 Nm of torque. It is connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch
transmission which sends power to the front wheels.
There’s no word on how fast the hatchback will be,
but Kia said the model will offer better “driving dynamics” than the standard
K3 which focuses on efficiency. The company declined to elaborate, but the Ceed
GT has stiffer springs, a lowered suspension and beefier brakes – among other
things.
