Today at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Kia took the wraps off its new compact significantly more upmarket version 2014 Forte.
The design is highlighted by sculpted flanks, with longer, lower, wider dimensions than the current car, which was launched in 2009. Both the windshield and the rear window are steeply raked, tire options start at 15 inches, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights and LED tail lights.
The new shape of the 2014 KIA Forte was designed at Kia's California studio, with influences from the Hyundai Elantra whose platform it shares than was the previous generation.
The new Forte's 1.8-liter will come standard on the LX model rated at 148 hp and 131 lb-ft of torque and the EX gets a direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 173 hp. A six speed manual is standard on the LX, while a six-speed automatic is optional.
Kia hasn't released any fuel-economy figures, but first shot to regain the vaunted 40 mpg EPA highway figure.
On the interior, the 2014 KIA Forte features like dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, a sliding front armrest, two LCD screens include a 4.2-inch color screen between the instruments, a Premium Package adds heated seats, Kia's UVO connectivity and infotainment system.
“I think most customers are very appreciative of how transparent we've been,” said Tom Loveless, Kia executive vice president of sales.
[alert style="green"] 2014 KIA Forte photos [/alert]
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