In anticipation of its unveiling in Detroit next week, Kia is giving enthusiasts a sneak peek at the newly redesigned 2019 Forte sedan. Instead of polished photographs, the company is showcasing a series of sketches that evoke the style of a caricature artist you might find on the streets of Seoul.
Aside from the oversized wheels and absence of door handles, this burgundy Kia appears almost ready for production and looks notably more stylish than its predecessor. With a more sculpted hood, captivating headlight design, and a prominently featured “Tiger Nose” grille, the third-generation Forte’s front end bears a slight resemblance to the luxury-oriented Stinger.
At the rear, the design elevates the vehicle’s sophistication, featuring elegantly designed LED taillights accompanied by separate reverse lights and turn signals positioned at the bumper corners.
Inside, the influence of the Stinger is apparent, incorporating design elements reminiscent of high-end German cars. The door panels echo Audi’s style, while the turbine-like air vents seem inspired by Mercedes-Benz designs. Although it’s unlikely that this new compact Kia will rival those brands in luxury or material quality, it stands out as commendable for a compact vehicle projected to begin pricing well under $20,000.
The complete reveal of the 2019 Kia Forte is set for the Detroit Auto Show on January 15.
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