2022 Kia Forte Will Have A New Design And More Technology For North America

In light of the recent makeover of the Korean-spec K3, Kia unveiled the 2022 Kia Forte for North America, which includes several stylistic and technical upgrades. The new 2022 Kia Forte comes in four trim levels: FE, LXS, GT-Line, and GT, with Technology (LXS, GT-Line, GT) and Sport Premium (GT-Line) packages available as options.

Since 2018, the sporty sedan known as the Forte, Cerato, or K3 in various areas across the world has been in its 3rd generation, putting this a mid-life facelift. The press release only included one image of the 2022 Kia Forte GT's front end. The revamped front has new, longer LED headlights that blend into the smaller tiger-nose grille, as well as a more contoured bumper with elegant intakes and more LEDs.

In addition to the new LED taillight designs for the GT and GT-Line, the updated KIA symbol and a trunk lid spoiler, similar to the Korean-spec K3. Kia also revealed new alloy wheel styles for the LX and GT-Line models. The 2022 Kia Forte gets a new 10.25-inch central touchscreen with navigation (GT and GT-Line) or an 8-inch touchscreen (FE, LXS) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. North America will not get the flashy 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster of the Korean-spec flagship models.

Other enhancements are the electronic parking brake with auto hold, optional rear USB charger, SynTex synthetic leather interior, and the Smart Key with remote start capability. Six ADAS are now standard, with up to 15 options, including Highway Driving Assist, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control, and Safe Exit Warning.

The new 2022 Kia Forte comes with two engines, like its predecessor. For the FE, LXS, and GT-Line models, there's a 2.0-liter MPI four-cylinder with 147 hp and 132 lb-ft (178 Nm) of torque. The FE variant gets 41 MPG on the highway thanks to an Intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission.

The GT version has a turbocharged 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque. Customers can pick between a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual. The GT has a sportier suspension, dual exhaust pipes, and firmer brakes.

Production of the 2022 Kia Forte is set to begin in Monterrey, Mexico, according to the company. There was no word on the price, although it is likely to be identical to the outgoing model.