Kia Motors America (KMA) hosted the global debut of the 2019 Forte during the 2018 North American International Auto Show at Detroit’s Cobo Center. The third-generation vehicle features a host of improvements including higher levels of comfort, increased fuel efficiency, and advanced driver assistance technologies.
“The compact sedan segment is highly competitive, but with all the improvements the new Forte brings to market for the 2019 model year, it is more than prepared to take on the toughest the segment has to offer,” says Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning for KMA. “As one of our top-selling models, the all-new Forte follows some large footsteps, but enhancements in styling, packaging, and content make it even more attractive to drivers seeking a compact sedan that can accommodate their versatile lifestyle.”
Inspired by the Stinger fastback sport sedan, the Forte’s long hood and short deck lend a youthful, sporty image, while moving the cowel back five inches keeps the vehicle’s stance athletic. The front clip is flanked by a Stinger-esque headlamp design and layout and separate turn signal indicators are mounted below the front bumper, where air curtains improve the Forte’s aerodynamic performance and technical appeal.
The Forte’s overall cabin length has increased by 3.2 inches to 182.7 inches, allowing for more legroom and additional cargo capacity in the trunk. The dashboard’s overall width also increased .7 inches to 70.8 inches, which was inspired by Stinger and helps create openness and avoid clutter.
Additionally, the 2019 Kia Forte is equipped with an eight-inch color touchscreen with Androit Auto and Apple CarPlay. Smartphone users can elect to have the system read text messages aloud through Bluetooth and utilize a wireless charging tray in the center stack for Android devices and the Apple iPhone 8 and iPhone X.
Available advanced driver assistance systems making their way to the Forte include blind spot collision warning, lane keeping assist, forward collision-avoidance assist, and smart cruise control.
The 2019 Kia Forte is available in three configurations — LX, S, and EX — with the model line continuing to expand throughout its life cycle.
