Kia has announced the pricing details on the Kia Forte sedan, which will go on sale at dealerships nationwide later this summer. The 2010 Kia Forte sedan will be available in three trims including LX, EX and SX.

Pricing for the 2010 Forte LX and EX start at $13,695 and $15,795 respectively (prices exclude freight, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges). Both LX and EX are powered by a 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder engine making 156-hp and 144 lb-ft of torque. Fuel-economy for the Forte LX and EX is estimated at 25/34 mpg (city/highway).

As reported earlier this morning, Kia is offering a Fuel-Economy Package for the 2010 Forte, which is available on the EX model. The minor improvements result in an estimated fuel-economy of 27/36 mpg (combined fuel-economy of 30 mpg).

The 2010 Kia Forte SX starts at $17,195. Power comes from a 2.4L making a 173-hp. Fuel-economy for the Forte SX is estimated at  22/32 mpg when mated to a 6-speed manual and 23/31 mpg when mated to a 5-speed automatic.

Click through for the high-res image gallery and the press release.

2010 Kia Forte:

Press Release:

ALL-NEW 2010 KIA FORTE COMPACT SEDAN
Kia Motors’ New Compact Sedan Hits the Streets of Seattle

SEATTLE, June. 12, 2009 – Following the successful launch of the all-new, widely acclaimed 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle in Miami earlier this year, Kia Motors America (KMA) today launched the all-new 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan in Seattle. The Emerald City, known for its innovation and creativity, provides the perfect backdrop for Forte, a true pioneering player in its segment. On sale in North America early this summer, Forte is the first of its kind to offer consumers an impressive combination of standard safety, comfort and convenience features.

“On the heels of several successful vehicle debuts and introductions, Forte finds itself in good company and follows in the stylish steps of Borrego and Soul,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. “With a heavy emphasis on design, Forte sedan is poised to help consumers make that emotional connection with their vehicle by offering the entire package of style, safety features and value.”

Dynamic Exterior Styling

With aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. Sporting a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a wide, stable stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new compact sedan will start at $13,695¹ for the LX trim, while the Forte EX begins at $15,795. Moving up to the SX trim, pricing begins at $17,195.

Smooth and Seamless Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte taut, responsive handling, a smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned, Kia-developed suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on S-turn laden roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Forte’s front-wheel-drive unibody structure employs an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the energetic essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Modern and High-Tech Interior

With one of the roomiest interiors in the segment, Forte boasts a spacious 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte’s trunk also offers a best-in-class 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, perfect for luggage and weekend getaways or around-town grocery shopping.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte makes every effort to incorporate style and function, starting with a crisp, high-visibility center stack and a driver-oriented three-gauge instrument cluster exuding a stylish red glow. Forte continues to pamper its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver’s seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; tweeter speakers; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX models also offer an optional Premium Package that includes a power moonroof and 16-inch alloy wheels, or a Leather Package that includes leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmers, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim.

The SX model brings even more standard features, including a unique black interior with sport cloth fabric adorned with red stitching, a telescoping steering column, Supervision^TM gauge cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim and pedals. The SX model also offers the optional power moonroof and leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmers.

Lively Performance and Power

Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing a class-leading 156 horsepower² and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173³ horsepower – more powerful and with better fuel economy than the Mazda3s and Corolla XRS.

Four transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

Offering impressive fuel economy, the 2.0-liter engine offers a competitive 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated to either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, while the 2.4-liter engine turns out a notable 22/32 mpg when paired with the six-speed manual and 23/31 with the five-speed automatic.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available on the EX model with the 2.0-liter powerplant, includes the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering (MPDS), “smart” alternator, silica tires and aero enhancements. These improvements result in 27/36 mpg and a class-leading combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.

Jamming Sound System

Forte comes with a ground-breaking combination of standard convenience features, starting with a standard four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service†. Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages add a standard six-speaker surround-sound audio system.

Forte’s advanced audio system also includes Speed Dependent Volume Control (SDVC), which automatically increases the volume at higher speeds for better listening enjoyment, and Power Bass, which automatically enhances the bass response and tone.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as front active headrests, dual advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, side impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, four-wheel disc brakes with an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

- By: Omar Rana

Hyundai is on its way to improve its brand image with the new Genesis Sedan and Coupe; however, the brand has no plans to abandon small-car customers who want affordable, fuel-efficient vehicles. As such, Hyundai and its sister brand Kia have announced that they will launch an extra fuel-efficient range of models for the Hyundai Elantra, Accent and a “fuel-economy package” for the Kia Forte.

Like the Chevrolet Cobalt XFE or the Ford F-150 SFE, Hyundai and Kia will employ relatively simple enhancement to help their cars get an additional mile or two from each gallon of gas.

Updates include a 5-speed automatic over a 4-speed,  tires with lower rolling resistance, electric instead of hydraulic power steering, aerodynamic enhancements and a “smart” alternator that has less drag on the engine.

Hyundai said the vehicles will be a part of the company’s move to meet its goal of 35 mpg average fuel economy for its vehicle fleet by 2015. All three models should be on sale later this summer as 2010 models.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CARandDRIVER

Kia introduced its first mass production hybrid car by unveiling the new Forte LPI hybrid electric-vehicle (HEV) to the South Korean Market yesterday. The Forte LPI hybrid electric-vehicle is one of the first models to fall under Kia’s new eco-friendly badge known as Eco-Dynamics.

Power for the Forte LPI HEV comes from a mild-hybrid system and a 1.6L gasoline engine that makes 114-hp. An electric motor helps generate an additional 20-hp. Mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) the Kia Forte LPI HEV averages an estimated fuel-economy of 41 mpg (U.S.).

The Kia Forte LPI HEV will go on sale in Korea later this summer, making it the world’s first vehicle to use a lithium-ion battery pack which is supplied by LG Chem (they will also supply batteries for the Chevrolet Volt). There are no plans to export the Forte LPI HEV to global markets.

Parent company Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia spend nearly $6 billion on research and development this year with the majority of that money going into the development of hybrids and electric-cars. Kia said that it will bring its first full-hybrid car to the market in late 2010 (as the next-generation Optima sedan) and its first hydrogen fuel-cell powered car in 2012. A plug-in hybrid sedan for the global markets is expected during the same time.

Kia Forte LPI Hybrid Electric-Vehicle:

Source: Kia-World

Peter Schreyer, former Audi design head, is doing everything he can to help build Kia’s image. Today at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show, Kia Motors will take the wraps off of its new 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan. The 2010 Forte replaces the outgoing Spectra offering a more appealing style, a roomier cabin with room for 5-passengers and of course, more power.

The front-wheel-drive 2010 Kia Forte will be available in three trim levels including LX, EX and SX. The LX and EX are powered by a 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder engine that produces 156-hp and 144 lb-ft of torque. The Forte SX is powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder unit making 173-hp. Both options will be feature Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection.

Sales of the 2010 Kia Forte begin late spring or early summer. Pricing will be announced closer to launch date.

Follow the jump for the press release.

2010 Kia Forte:

Press Release:

KIA MOTORS AMERICA INTRODUCES ALL-NEW KIA FORTE

- Kia’s New Compact Sedan Makes its Debut at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show

- Kia Motors debuts sporty and fuel-efficient compact sedan

- New Forte blends impressive new style with Kia Motors quality and value

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – On the heels of announcing the widely acclaimed, all-new Kia Soul, Kia Motors America (KMA) today introduced the all-new 2010 Kia Forte (pronounced for-tay) compact sedan at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. Forte blends Kia’s exciting new design direction under the tutelage of Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors’ chief design officer, with a multitude of standard features. The 2010 Kia Forte will go on sale in North America in late spring or early summer of 2009.

“Kia Motors’ product line is rapidly evolving and the Forte compact sedan is another head turner,” said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, KMA and KMMG. “The Forte is an aggressively stylish blend of comfort and practicality – and with a host of standard features it provides the great quality and value that consumers have come to expect from Kia vehicles.”

Style in Motion
Sporting stylish and aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. With a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a confident stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The sportier SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires and a rear spoiler.

Smooth and Comfortable Ride
With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers one of the roomiest interiors in its class with seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte better handling, smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on curvy roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, Forte utilizes an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the sporty essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Attractive and Practical Interior
Forte boasts a class-leading 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte’s trunk also offers an impressive 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, one of the largest in its class, perfect for luggage for weekend getaways.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte pampers its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver’s seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX and SX models also include standard cruise control with an optional sunroof and leather-trimmed seats. Also standard on SX models is a telescoping steering column as well as sport cloth seats adorned with red stitching, further enhancing its energetic persona.

Peppy Performance
Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower – more than the most powerful versions of the Toyota Corolla or even the 2010 Mazda3.

Two transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available with the 2.0-liter powerplant, will include the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering and low-rolling resistance tires with aero enhancements. These improvements result in class-leading combined fuel economy of 36 mpg (highway).

Music that Moves
Forte comes with a standard four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service. Standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages also add a standard six speaker surround audio system and steering wheel controls.

Standard Kia Motors Safety
Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty
Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

2009 Product Line
Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

The 2009 Kia Forte was released last week with all the details and a bunch of details hots of the upcoming Kia sedan (which will be our next-generation Spectra). More press shots and the official brochure have now popped up online giving us a better look at the 2009 Forte.

Kia will replace the hatchback variant with a coupe next-year. Power for the base 2009 Kia Forte comes from a 1.6 liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 124 horsepower. A 2.0 liter diesel will also be added after launch.

Click through for more images.

2009 Kia Forte:

Source: CarScoop