Kia released an all-new Forte sedan last year in Detroit, with it arriving at dealers last fall. Now, with that show coming up again, the automaker is revealing the five-door hatchback version. Only this time, the Forte5 is actually going to be revealed in North America at next week's Montreal show.
Like the sedan, this is an all-new body style. With Kia's tiger nose and the sleeker, more grown-up styling that's diffusing through the brand. Unlike the sedan, the roofline keeps going past the rear seats, where it then slopes downward to a surprisingly upright tailgate. By modern hatch standards at least. That should help out with cargo space, though Kia hasn't revealed those figures just yet.
Expect similar powertrains to the sedan, namely a 2.0L four cylinder that puts out 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. That engine is available with a six-speed manual and a CVT in the sedan.
Kia is also going to offer the Forte5 in the new GT trim, which comes with more than just appearance changes. It will have a 1.6L turbo-four available that's paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch box. That turbo-four makes 201 hp and 195 lb-ft in other applications, so will probably match that here.
"We’re confident that this new Kia Forte5 delivers on what Canadians want - a dynamic and sporty Hatchback that is great to look at, fun to drive, safe and connects to their unique lives," said Kia Canada Director of Marketing Michael Kopke.
In addition to the Forte5, Kia will be bringing the Niro EV and its 385 km EPA range to the show, along with the 2020 Kia Soul - both expected to arrive in dealers in the first half of 2019.
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