2019 Kia Forte Sedan: Engine, Fuel Economy, Redesign, Price, Tech

The all-new 2019 Kia Forte sedan has been introduced a few days ago at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show. As you can see, the compact car looks really amazing, probably better than every other car from the same class. Still, if you think that the new Forte has nothing else to offer aside from the new exterior design, think again, because the carmaker added a range of useful features inside. Though, we have to admit that we’ve expected more under the hood. So far, the manufacturer released the details about an updated Atkinson-cycle powertrain, yet hopefully, this isn’t going to be everything from the amazing sedan.

Better Fuel Economy

You won’t find more power under the hood of the 2019 Kia Forte. No, the updated inline-four will still produce 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. It will also use the same six-speed manual gearbox as the base option. The biggest change is a replacement for the six-speed auto transmission. Instead of it, the unit will be mated to a CVT. Even though it’s Kia’s first continuously variable automatic transmission over, they didn’t have any problem to make it, smiley because they’ve followed already proved technologies, including a shift-logic program that simulates gear changes. According to Kia, the 2019 Forte will be able to deliver 35 mpg combined, which is 3 mpg higher from the same model and engine mated to a 6-speed auto.

More Space

The new-gen Forte is slightly larger than the predecessor. The redesigned model adds 3.2 inches in length, 0.5 inches in height, and 0.7 inches in width. The extra space is used to boost rear legroom and trunk space. The new trunk offers 15.1 cubic feet, which is still small, yet better from the previous 14.9.

New Tech and Better Safety

Inside, the sedan sports a totally new and cleaner dashboard and a new tablet-style 8.0-inch touchscreen, which is positioned in the very center. Of course, the infotainment is connected to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and both are standard. There’s also a wireless phone-charging pad, though this is an optional feature. The compact car offers far better safety features from the predecessor. The list includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning.

Coupe-Like Sedan

Exterior changes are mostly evolutionary, yet even though the 2019 Kia Forte looks significantly better. There’s a new tiger-nose grille upfront, which fits perfectly with a pair of sharp headlights. Below, the carmaker has added a new bumper with aggressive air intakes. The sleek, coupe-like design continues all the way to the rear end, which irresistibly resembles the new Stinger. Though, the most effective detail is a horizontal strip that connects the attractive taillights.

Price and Release

Kia hasn’t released any price information so far, but this should happen pretty soon, probably this month. The compact car will hit the dealerships this spring.