The 2022 Kia Forte compact sedan arrives with a host of enhancements including new front and rear design elements, a newly available 10.25-inch widescreen navigation display, and an expanded suite of new and upgraded Drive Wise ADAS technology. The compact sedan offers six standard ADAS features and a total of 15 systems, including Lane Following Assist, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control, Highway Driving Assist, and Safe Exit Warning. The Kia Forte, known as the K3 in South Korea, the Forte K3 or Shuma in China and Cerato in South America, Australia and New Zealand, is a compact car manufactured by Korean automaker Kia since mid-2008, replacing the Kia Cerato/Spectra. In some markets, such as Costa Rica, Australia and Brazil, the Forte is marketed as Kia Cerato, replacing its predecessor of the same name. In Colombia and Singapore, the name Cerato Forte was used for the second generation, while Naza Automotive Manufacturing of Malaysia has assembled the vehicle since 2009, selling it there under the name Naza Forte. It is available in two-door coupe, four-door sedan, five-door hatchback variants. It is not available in Europe, where the similar sized Kia Ceed is offered.
The 2022 Kia Forte still offers two proven engines, allowing customers to choose between an enjoyable driving experience that is either smooth and efficient or deliberately sporty and responsive:
- 2.0-liter MPI I-4 engine (FE, LXS, GT-Line)
Intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission (IVT)
147 horsepower/132 lb.-ft. torque
FE trim achieves 41 MPG Highway - Turbocharged 1.6-liter GDI I-4 engine (GT)
7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) or 6-speed manual transmission
201 horsepower/195 lb.-ft. torque
Multi-link rear suspension
Dual sport-tuned exhaust
Within, the 2022 Forte delivers a modern cabin defined by a driver centric, high-tech interior space. Key feature enhancements include:
A larger 4.2-inch color TFT LCD cluster (standard on all trims)
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now standard through the 8-inch touchscreen display audio/infotainment system (standard on FE, LXS)
25-inch wide touchscreen navigation/infotainment standard on GT and GT-Line, includes free MapCare updates
Center console with newly available integrated Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) and Auto Hold
Available rear USB charger
Smart Key now features remote start (standard on GT, GT-Line)
Available SynTex synthetic leather seating
The exterior of the 2022 Kia Forte incorporates a new design identity with enhanced styling elements in the front and rear. Updates include:
Sleeker, more expressive headlight designs
Next-generation tiger-nose grille
Revised front and rear bumpers to accentuate a wider, stronger image
LED fog lights seamlessly integrated into air-intake grille (GT, GT-Line only)
New 16-inch and 17-inch dark metal gray alloy wheel designs (LXS, GT-Line only)
Sportier LED taillight/rear combination lamp design (GT, GT-Line only)
New trunk lid spoiler emphasizes rear width and stability
The 2022 Kia Forte is available in four trim levels – FE, LXS, GT-Line and GT. For 2022, the EX model has been discontinued and a new GT-Line Sport Premium package has been added. Other new package offerings across the model range include LXS Technology, GT-Line Technology, and GT Technology, each with a unique combination of tech and ADAS systems. For those wanting a sport-infused version of the Kia Forte, the GT-Line trim offers an exceptional combination of performance styling and premium features. The wide array of content includes unique 17-inch wheels, sport exterior design elements, LED fog lights, sport combination seats with SynTex/cloth, sport steering wheel, a 10.25-inch navigation touchscreen, and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist. At the top of the lineup, the Forte GT brings a true performance experience with a 201-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder engine. This 200+ HP sports compact sedan is a standout in the segment for its balanced driving dynamics and boasts a standard 7-speed DCT. It is also one of few such offerings with an available manual transmission. Kia Forte will continue to be built in Monterrey, Mexico.
