Leftlane has posted several spyshots of the Kia Forte/Spectra undergoing testing in the U.S. for the first time. This indicates that it is entering the final stages of its testing. Designed by Peter Schreyer - the genius who also penned the Audi TT MKI and the Volkswagen New Beetle - the Forte will replace the Spectra later this year.Speculations point to the Forte being nearly identical to the Hyundai Elantra in features. The Forte is also expected to be propelled by the same 138 horsepower 2.0L Beta 4-cylinder engine. However, we might see a higher horsepower rating in the Forte as Kia pursues to differentiate itself from Hyundai. Unlike the current generation Spectra, the Forte will only be available in a four-door guise initially. The KOUP Concept acts as the precursor to a possible two-door variant in the near future.
The Korean-market Forte will be officially unveiled on August 21st, according to Kia. The USDM Forte is slated to debut later in the year, with sales following early 2009. Head to Leftlane by clicking the source to view the images in full glory.
[Source: Leftlane]
