Kia Forte Successor Caught Camera Tested, Launched In The Middle Of This Year

Kia Forte model in 2022. (Doc. Kia)

JAKARTA - Not wanting to be left behind from competitors, Kia is preparing several models from various segments, including sedans, with the company currently testing the successor to the Forte model.

Launching Carscoops, Friday, January 26, this effort is evident from the image immortalized by the spy camera, showing this latest model is undergoing trials with a camouflage sticker wrapped. The successor to Forte is named K4.

The car features a more sporty design compared to its predecessor, with fastback roof lines and a slowly rising waist line on the back, creating a window area with a unique design on its side profile.

The possibility of Kia K4 adding about 100 mm to the wheelbase, with the manufacturer's record still maintaining the size difference between Rio or K3 and this model.

Another change can be seen in the handle of the back door. If Rio's successor has a conventional door handle placed above the back door's skin, K4 moves the handle to the door frame adjacent to the C pillar, giving the impression of a more prominent coup.

Meanwhile, the rear light is designed with a reversed L pattern similar to the front LED daytime running lights (DRL). This section can still be seen even though it is covered by a cloak of disguise.

Next, the inside is likely to feature a long and sleek screen that combines digital gauges with the infotainment system. The powertrain is expected to use turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engines. There is speculation that the brand will offer plug-in hybrid systems in several markets.

The car is expected to enter the United States market in mid-2024 as a 2025 model, considering that the facelift version of Forte was launched in June 2021.