2017 Kia Forte 1st. drive with VP Product Planning, Orth Hedrick
Channel: Javier Mota
Date: 05/07/2016

Following best-ever sales in 2015, the Forte family of compact cars is poised for even more success, as the refreshed 2017 Forte enters the new model year with several refinements. Along with fresh exterior styling, the 2017 Forte gains a new base engine that’s been engineered for improved fuel economy4 and performance, plus a host of advanced convenience and driver-assistance features.

Visual enhancements to the 2017 Forte add even more sophistication to its European sport-sedan styling. Up front, the Forte dons a new front bumper and “tiger nose” grille that has been extended to connect with newly designed headlights, which are available with Xenon HID lights. This new take on the front fascia gives the Forte a more fluid appearance, and customers will have the choice of two designs, one highlighting the Forte’s sophisticated personality and one that’s more aggressive and sporty. Completing the exterior redesign are newly designed taillights, with optional LEDs.

Now available in three trims, a new sporty S trim sits in between the entry-level LX trim and the top-trim EX model.  The new S trim amps up the Forte’s dynamic demeanor by adding a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, LED positioning lights, rear spoiler, and a chrome exhaust tip.  For 2017, the EX trim remains the top of the range, and with that, comes standard with premium exterior features such as LED taillights, Smart Key with perimeter approach lighting and front door pocket lighting, and new 17-inch alloy wheels.  Like its bigger Optima sibling, the Forte is available with Dynamic Bending Light technology, which uses steering wheel inputs to angle the light around corners and bends.