Looks like Kia is already working on the mid-cycle facelift for the Kia Forte. Despite was launched 2 years ago, Kia started the first real world test drive of the refreshed Forte (also known as K3 in the local market) in order to apply the latest tech, safety and design, possible taken some inspiration from K5.
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We recently tested the most powerful Kia Forte, the GT trim with its 204 hp engine and 7-speed DCT (you can check the review here) and Kia could be hurrying up to release a facelift of the K3 in order to compete against Avante/Elantra success in South Korea.
As these are the very first spy pictures of the Forte facelift, we cannot say to much about what changes will have, but like with the i30 facelift, we can expect the arrival of new engines, like the 1.5 T-GDi, the new CVVD 1.6 Turbo and we also dream about a more powerful GT version.
We are sure Kia will also add its innovative IMT transmission, the ‘clutch-by-wire’ intelligent manual transmission which already has two variants, one with a clutch pedal and one without it.
It is pretty difficult to see what’s under the heavy camouflage, but the changes won’t be more than front and rear redesigned bumpers (we can see black glossy painted rear bumper), the grille which also looks like having a different design. Headlights and taillights will also change its graphics.
The Forte should receive latest safety pack, as well as new IT system, from 8″ to 10,25 inch and digital cluster (the CEED which is parent of K3/Forte already had it).
What it is still unkown is if Kia will make a big makeover like Hyundai did with Grandeur or Santa Fe or a more mild facelift like Kia recently did with Stonic or Stinger.
What do you expect?
Photo Source: AutoSpy
