Kia Teases Forte's Sexy, Third-generation Overhaul Prior to Detroit Debut
Kia revealed a few design renderings of the 2019 Kia Forte ahead of its debut at the fast-approaching North American International Auto Show. While highly reminiscent of the second generation of the Korean compact, the third-gen model offers a sexed-up profile and more sophisticated looks.
The headlights taper upward, set into creased bodywork, while large air inlets evoke a sense of sportiness. Kia says that’s intentional; it wanted the new Forte to borrow some of the spirit of the Stinger fastback sedan. For the most part, it seems to have done that gracefully.
“Creases in the hood lend to the Forte’s muscular appearance and distinctive design traits on the front fascia, including a fresh approach to Kia’s signature tiger nose grille and an aggressive lower valance enhance its road presence,” the automaker explained. “The front clip is flanked by a more dynamic headlamp design and layout.”
Things are similar around the rear. While most compact cars — especially those from Asian countries — seem to be totally devoid of tail-end styling, Kia has taken a giant leap in the right direction with its new model. The old Forte’s ass was as unremarkable as the rest of the pack, but the 2019 model shows more attention, with separate reverse and turn signal indicators located beneath the taillights. However, there is something distinctly Malibu-like about it.
The interior follows an open concept — a style popular with both upscale autos and home remodeling programs. While it appears clean and spacious, we’re always a little sensitive about missing buttons. The mockup, while incomplete, shows a quartet of knobs. Two of those are likely designated for the HVAC system, while the others are probably a tuner and volume dial. Kia says there will be buttons below the tablet-like infotainment screen, but the number will be kept to a minimum.
The minimalist look is always nice, but we’re hoping the Korean company isn’t expecting us to utilize a touchscreen for simple tasks. We prefer keeping our eyes on the road whenever possible. We’ll know for sure on January 15th, when the Forte makes its official debut in Detroit.
[Images: Kia Motors]
A staunch consumer advocate tracking industry trends and regulation. Before joining TTAC, Matt spent a decade working for marketing and research firms based in NYC. Clients included several of the world’s largest automakers, global tire brands, and aftermarket part suppliers. Dissatisfied with the corporate world and resentful of having to wear suits everyday, he pivoted to writing about cars. Since then, that man has become an ardent supporter of the right-to-repair movement, been interviewed on the auto industry by national radio broadcasts, driven more rental cars than anyone ever should, participated in amateur rallying events, and received the requisite minimum training as sanctioned by the SCCA. Handy with a wrench, Matt grew up surrounded by Detroit auto workers and managed to get a pizza delivery job before he was legally eligible. He later found himself driving box trucks through Manhattan, guaranteeing future sympathy for actual truckers. He continues to conduct research pertaining to the automotive sector as an independent contractor and has since moved back to his native Michigan, closer to where the cars are born. A contrarian, Matt claims to prefer understeer — stating that front and all-wheel drive vehicles cater best to his driving style.
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At least upgrading the infotainment system will be easy. All I have to do is pull that tablet off and glue in another one. =P This is one of the worst cabin design trends I have ever seen.
Not bad, not bad at all.