Kia Reveals 2019 Forte With Stinger-Tinged Design

Khodrocar - While the 2019 Kia Forte doesn't offer the performance of the new Stinger, the third-generation of the sedan gains some of its big brother's looks from a set of sweptback headlights and a more aggressive lower fascia. A flowing roof and short rear end give the model a vaguely coupe-like appearance from some angles, too.

In addition to the new styling, Kia gives the Forte a boost in efficiency. The sedan is available with a six-speed manual or the company's in-house-developed CVT gearbox, which the automaker brands as the Intelligent Variable Transmission. It hooks up to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that runs on the Atkinson Cycle and produces 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. Kia estimates the engine with the CVT to get 35 miles per gallon combined fuel economy – a gain of 3 mpg over the current Forte with a six-speed automatic. 

The Forte offers buyers more sophisticated tech, too. It now comes with a standard eight-inch infotainment system with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that perches on top of the center stack. There's also an optional driver assistance suite that includes blind-spot warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision avoidance assist. Full LED headlights are available, too.

The new Forte grows 3.2 inches (81 millimeters) to 182.7 inches (4,641 mm) overall, and the extra room contributes to more legroom for passengers and a bigger trunk. Underneath, a revised platform is 54 percent Advanced High-Strength Steel, which contributes to being 16 percent stiffer than before. Kia expects the updated vehicle to score top marks in crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 

Kia doesn't yet announce specifically when the new Forte goes on sale or disclose pricing details. However, it'll be available in three trims at launch: LX, S and EX. More grades will come later, according to the company.