The Kia Forte Gets a Refresh for 2017

The Kia Forte recently underwent a very mild update, and at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show, the Korean automaker has unveiled a more comprehensive refresh for its resident compact car. This new look will be available on the sedan and hatchback versions of the 2017 Forte.

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The highlight of both the Forte sedan and Forte5 hatchback is the new front clip. This new fascia has a widened tiger nose grille, like the new Optima, and headlights that extend to this grille. On the rear, the taillights also receive a nice refresh, though they are fairly similar to the 2016 model.

In addition to its new look, there are some new features and trims available too. The sedan model is still available in the LX and EX trims, but there is also a new S trim that sits between them. This new trim adds a touch of sportiness via a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a rear spoiler, and a chrome exhaust tip. The LX sedan gains new cloth for its seats, while the EX sedan and hatchback now get standard leather upholstery, a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, dual-zone climate control, and push-button start. As for the SX hatchback, it gains a new Orange Color Pack for 2017, which adds orange accents on the seats, and orange contrast stitching on the seats and shifter.

The sedan model gains a new 2.0-liter Atkinson four-cylinder in place of its old 1.8-liter engine paired with a standard six-speed manual or six-speed auto. Optional on the Sedan is a 2.0-liter GDI with a six-speed auto transmission. The base hatchback comes with the 2.0-liter GDI with a six-speed auto transmission, while the SX model features a turbocharged 1.6-liter with an available seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Kia will release the official output and fuel-economy numbers for these engines closer to the 2017 Forte’s release.

The 2017 Forte will continue to be available as a coupe – Koup in Kia speak – and the details on that model will come at a later date. The 2017 Forte and Forte5 should hit dealers in the first half of 2016. Stay tuned for more details.