Kia presents updated Forte sedan

Kia has officially unveiled the all-new K3 (released as the Forte sedan here in the Philippines) — making its global debut in Mexico.

As explained by the South Korean automotive brand all-new Kia K3 is aimed to redefine the subcompact segment with its bold and progressive design, spacious interior, abundant convenience, and safety features — all essential characteristics that cater to the demands of buyers in the aforementioned category.

“With the all-new K3, we are delivering design features and sophistication unprecedented in this class. The K3 is also proof of our commitment to offering mobility solutions perfectly designed to meet the needs of each market and is recognition of the enormous growth potential of the Mexican market,” commented Kia North America President and Chief Executive Officer Sean Yoon.

At the fore of the all-new Kia K3 is the brand's fresh take on the signature Tiger Nose grille. According to the Seoul-based automotive brand, the said portion was reinterpreted for a more “purposeful look.”

The front end is also slapped with a pair of LED headlamps and distinctive daytime running lamps.

Notable appointments found on the all-new Kia K3 are the blacked-out wheel arches — which are typical to crossovers and sport utility vehicles instead of sedans — and a double-line beltline that gives the nameplate a more rugged look.

Also noteworthy is its fastback-style roof that adds sportiness to the city car.

The rear end of the all-new Kia K3 flaunts a clean design with a thin LED light bar that connects the LED taillamps. Based on the photos revealed by the Hyundai-owned brand, the all-new Kia K3 also sports dual exhaust pipes but are both placed on the left side of the automobile.

Inside, the all-new Kia K3 offers modern-looking amenities for its occupants including a newly designed steering wheel inspired by the EV6, a minimalist yet modern and functional dashboard with horizontal lines, a two-zone automatic climate control, and customizable ambient lights with up to 64 different colors.

Tech-wise, the all-new Kia K3 offers a seamless screen that integrates both the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The latter is equipped with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto and is capable of pairing with two devices simultaneously.

Charging ports come in the form of USB type-C outlets for both front and rear occupants.

In terms of power, the all-new Kia K3 will be offered with two engines: a 1.6-liter powerplant that puts out approximately 121 horsepower and a 2.0-liter mill that can generate around 150 horses.

Additionally, an export-oriented 1.4-liter engine will also be made available.

Its safety technologies include features like airbags and seatbelts, an anti-lock braking system, and electronic stability control.

Advanced safety systems found in the all-new Kia K3 include front collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, and driving attention warning.

The all-new Kia K3 will be available in select markets starting in the fourth quarter of 2023. Details on launch dates and model specifications will be announced by each country in due course.

Photos from Kia

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