KIA Forte5

After one year of break from the US market, Kia has dramatically transformed Forte5 both inside and out. The cabin is now enriched and furnished with high-quality material to deliver a rewarding feel. In terms of tech, connectivity, and infotainment features, Forte5 is likely to have an 8-inch infotainment display, heated and ventilated front seats. The wireless charging function is also expected to be available with the upcoming Forte5. Some of the confirmed standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver and front seats, and UVO services. Also, rear seats get the 60/40 split function and provide you to expand the cargo space by up to 1335 liters. 

2020 Forte5 hatch reflects on the dynamic and sportier exterior style. Every detail is highlighted precisely without fronting the aerodynamics. The Forte5 now comes with a new set of dimensions, length and width have been increased significantly for better on-road capabilities. The lowered roofline contours the coupe-like silhouette. With these modifications, the upcoming Forte5 displays better exterior treatment than its rivals like VW GTI and Honda Civic hatch. Notably, the rear fascia of Forte5 has been thoroughly revised and now looks modern and exciting. The LED taillights now come as a lone element and are also embedded with the body. While the reverse and turn indicator lights are now installed at the lower sides of the rear bumper.

By enhancing the Forte5, Kia has impressively uplifted its stature to match the competition. The ride quality is derived by the independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front. It helps in reducing the impact of shock and keep the handling intact. Further, to make handling sportier and ride quality as per the GT grades, Kia has replaced torsion beam rear suspension with a multilink setup. It means, now rear wheels can make an independent movement as per the road condition. Hence, enabling better ride quality and handling. 

Forte5 will be available both as a hatchback and hot hatchback. The base grade EX is likely to be paired with the 2.0L MPI engine that can produce a maximum power of 147 hp at 6,200 rpm and torque of 132 lb.-ft. at 4,500 rpm. And, to ensure swift delivery of power, the 2.0L engine is mated with the Intelligent Variable Transmission. While the top grades GT and GT Limited are likely to be paired with the 1.6 L Gamma Turbo GDI engine. This engine is mated with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and can deliver a maximum power 201 hp at 6,000 rpm and torque of 195 lb.-f t at 1,500 rpm~4,500 rpm.

Forte5 is built as a capable and safer hatchback. It comes with 4-wheel disc brakes channelized with ABS. The braking configuration for base grade slightly differs from the top two grades. EX grade comes equipped with the 11.0 inch vented discs in the front wheel and 10.3-inch solid disc brakes in the rear wheels. While the GT and GT limited are paired with the bigger 12.0-inch vented discs brakes in the front wheels, and the rear wheel brake configuration remains the same as of EX. Also, the braking capability of Forte5 grows with the electronic stability program, electronic brakeforce distribution, and advanced forward collision avoidance system. The driving assistance features include driver attention alert, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, lane keep assist system, and hill assistance control. 

Forte5 has grown a sportier hatchback, and it’s now longer, wider, and lower than the earlier discontinued model. The new dimension matches the hot hatch personality of the Forte5. The driving position is more comfortable than before. While the thoroughly revised suspension system enhances the handing dynamics along with the ride quality. However, with conservative styling, Forte5 lacks the standard of Honda Civic Si and Mazda 3 hatch.