Kia Unveils Forte Koup Type R: SEMA 2010

Following a fairly successful inaugural season competing in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge series, Kia unveiled the Forte Koup Type R Concept at the 2010 SEMA show in Las Vegas on Tuesday. Kinetic Motorsports, which built and campaigned two Forte Koup race cars in the Continental Tire series, also developed the Type R Concept.

Visually, the car receives wider front fenders and rear quarter panels, front lip, side sills with rear arch flares and is painted in a flat dark shadow gray metallic color. The car rolls on 18-inch forged BBS wheels wrapped with Continental Conti Sport DWS tires. Additional handling improvements come from Kinetic performance springs, Kinetic custom limited-slip differential and strut tower brace.

Minor drivetrain modifications include an upgraded clutch, lightweight flywheel and underdrive engine pulley system. A custom Kinetic exhaust and K&N air filter is also installed. To up stopping power, Alcon four-piston brake calipers are fitted at all four corners.

The custom interior has green contrast stitching in a diamond pattern, short throw shifter with Kinetic shift knob and a 1,200-watt Infinity sound system.

According to a Kinetic spokesman, a line of performance parts has been developed and is ready to be produced for the Forte Koup as soon as Kia gives the the green light for production.

Kia also used SEMA to officially announce that it will also return to the track in 2011 for a sophomore campaign in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge series with the Forte Koup.

2011 Kia Forte5-Door: Hi-Res Image Gallery

Continue reading to view more images of the 2011 Kia Forte5-Door in true high-resolution glory (we mean it).

[Source: Kia]

2011 Kia Forte5-Door Launched in Canada

Kia officially launched the long-awaited five-door version of its popular Forte in the Canadian market today. Marketed as the Forte5-Door, the new hatchback builds on the popular Forte compact sedan and Forte Koup by employing another practical yet modern iteration of the platform.

"The Forte5-Door is another key ingredient to the design-led transformation that Kia Motors is currently in the midst of" said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "The Forte5-Door provides Canadians the practicality and utility that is expected from our already successful Forte line-up".

READ MORE for the full article and the official press release.



The Forte5-Door retains almost all styling cues from the successful Forte sedan, including a front fascia design that has been adapted by the sedan and Koup for 2011. The Forte5-Door completely differentiates the rear view from the Forte sedan. The rear of the vehicle includes a two-tone bumper on the SX package complemented by an integrated chrome exhaust tip as well as wrap around, multi-layer composite rear tail lamps. Available outside mirror LED turn signals and unique 16" and 17" alloy wheels also complement the look of the Forte5-Door.

The upscale interior of the Forte5-Door is replete with an impressive list of standard and optional equipment. Standard features on the base LX model include six airbags, anti-whiplash front headrests, power windows and locks, four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, and steering wheel audio controls. The EX model adds two more speakers, telescopic steering wheel, and heated front seats. The top-of-the-line SX model adds Sirius satellite radio, automatic climate control, leather trimmed interior, supervision instrument cluster, and metallic interior accents. Push-button keyless start, navigation, rear-view camera, and auto-dimming interior mirrors are available on the SX Luxury trim.

The 2011 Forte5-Door door has two engine offerings including the 2.0-litre Theta II and the 2.4-litre Theta II engine. The 2.0L engine produces 156 horsepower and 144 lb.ft of torque. Tne larger 2.4L generates a hearty 173 horsepower and 168 lb.ft of torque. Both are mated to a standard 6-speed manual tranny or an available 6-speed auto.

In Canada, the 2011 Forte5-Door starts at $16,995 for the LX model. The EX model stickers at $19,195, while the SX model starts at $22,495 and tops out at $26,195 for the SX Luxury with automatic transmission.

[Source: Kia Canada]

--

PRESS RELEASE: 2011 Forte5-Door extends Kia’s design-led transformation and aggressive new product launch

ANN ARBOR, MI, Oct. 21

Forte 5 door enhances Kia Canada's best-selling vehicle line by adding utility and practicality
Forte 5 door line-up includes refined and efficient six-speed powertrain offerings

ANN ARBOR, MI, Oct. 21 /CNW/ - Kia Canada Inc. officially launches a valued addition to the best-selling Forte compact sedan and bold Forte Koup lineup with the debut of the all-new 2011 Forte5-Door.

"The Forte5-Door is another key ingredient to the design-led transformation that Kia Motors is currently in the midst of" said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "The Forte5-Door provides Canadians the practicality and utility that is expected from our already successful Forte line-up".

Forte5-Door builds on the popular Forte compact sedan and bold Forte Koup by employing another practical yet modern iteration of the platform. Forte five-door carries with it all the amenities of the Forte line and introduces lower valence designc, available paddle shifters, push-button start ignition and voice recognition navigation in addition to the ostensible fifth door for a distinct appearance and intentional practicality. Forte5-Door is available with an efficient 2.0-liter engine or a sporty 2.4-liter engine both featuring a six-speed manual transmission or an available six-speed automatic transmission.

Design

The Forte5-Door retains almost all styling cues from the successful Forte sedan. In 2011, both the sedan and 5 door share a common look of the front view noting the familiar Kia signature grille. The sporty hatchback exudes styling of European tastes and enhanced practicality. The wedge like character of the side profile displays a sense of speed while the available chrome door handles and outside mirror integrated turn signals signifies luxury in the compact segment. The Forte5-Door completely differentiates the rear view from the Forte sedan. The rear of the vehicle includes a two-tone bumper on the SX package complemented by an integrated chrome exhaust tip as well as wrap around, multi-layer composite rear tail lamps. Available outside mirror LED turn signals and unique 16" and 17" alloy wheels also complement the look of the Forte5-Door.

The sweep of the Forte5-Door door's bold lines continues inside, creating a modern cabin where form and function blend seamlessly. Interior features include optional mono-tone black perforated leather interior standard on the SX for an upscale image, metal and chrome interior finishes on instrument knobs to provide a high quality finish, audio controls and temperature controls ergonomically positioned at a hands reach and front centre armrest with storage.

World Class Powertrain

The 2011 Forte5-Door door has two engine offerings including the 2.0-litre Theta II and the venerable 2.4-litre Theta II engine also known as the 'World Engine' in some markets. These powerful, yet fuel efficient all-aluminum engines has been durability tested up to 24 million combined kilometers. The engines feature a light-weight ladder-frame block, special hollow dual overhead cams, continuously variable valve timing modules attached to both intake and exhaust cams which increases horsepower, torque and enhances fuel efficiency while reducing emissions output. In addition, durable proprietary 'silent' timing chains, and a multi-stage composite variable intake manifold enhances power output across the power band. The engines also contain strong sinter-forged connecting rods and a stainless steel tube exhaust manifold.

The Forte5-Door door LX starts at $16,695 and comes standard with the 2.0-litre coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Horsepower for the 2.0-litre engine is rated at 156 hp with the torque rated at 144 lb. ft. The 2.4-litre engine is standard on the SX trim level and features a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Outstanding fuel economy is also achieved for the Forte 5 door SX rated (with manual transmission) at 9.2 L/100Km for city driving and 6.2 L/100Km for highway driving. In addition, the Eco-minder, located in the instrument cluster, indicates when the Forte5 is driving at its optimal fuel efficiency (automatic transmission only).

Engineering

A meticulously engineered chassis and power rack & pinion steering work in harmony, blending dynamic handling and ride comfort. The front suspension is an independent McPherson strut application while the rear suspension is a semi-independent coupled torsion beam with gas shock absorbers and coil springs.

Safety

Safety comes naturally to the Kia Forte5-Door. There is the standard protection of six airbags, dual advance front, dual side seat mounted and dual full length curtain airbags. This is complemented by the sure-footed stopping power of four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and a rigid body structure that helps channel crash energy away from the driver and passengers. Other safety features include anti-whiplash active front headrests, electronic stability control, traction control, panic brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, impact sensing door unlock, front seat belt pretensioners and rear child safety door locks.

Pricing and Content

The Forte5-Door door line-up comes in 11 trim variations ranging in MSRP from $16,995 to $26,195.

LX - Starting at $16,695
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include: 6 airbags (advanced dual front, dual front side and dual curtain) anti-whiplash front headrests, 4-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), power windows and locks, power heated outside mirrors, four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, 15" steel wheels with wheel covers, front and rear mud guards.

EX - Starting at $19,195
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to LX): 16" alloy wheels, , telescopic steering wheel, 6 speakers audio, keyless entry with panic feature, manual air conditioning, windshield wiper de-icer, heated front seats, cruise control, outside mirror with integrated LED turn signal, exterior chrome door handles. Optional sunroof available.

SX - Starting at $22,495
2.4L, 4-cylinder engine, 173hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to EX): 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Sirius satellite radio, trip computer, automatic climate control, leather seats, leather wrapped gear shift knob, leather wrapped steering wheel, power sunroof, supervision instrument cluster, metallic interior accents, alloy sport pedals, automatic light control. SX Luxury adds: Push button ignition start, navigation

Additional available exterior and interior features on the Forte5-Door SX Luxury include:

Auto dimming rear view mirror with Homelink
Voice activated In-dash Navigation system
Rear-view camera integrated display into navigation screen
Industry-Leading Warranty
Like all Kia models, Forte5-Door is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a five-year or 100,000-km limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 100,000-km limited comprehensive warranty, and a five-year unlimited-km anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/100,000-km roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

The Forte5-Door represent Kia`s new design strategy. They have enhanced the value of Kia`s current line-up, which has already shown strong appeal, and have propelled Kia into the top tier of design led brands. With the successful launch of the Soul, Forte Sedan, Forte KOUP, Sorento, Sportage and now Forte5-Door door, Kia is leading the way by creating a new generation of vehicles that offer premium styling combined with exceptional value.

Kia Canada Inc. (www.kia.ca) -- a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart -- is a subsidiary of Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) in Korea was founded in 1999 and sells and services high quality class leading vehicles like the Soul, Forte and Sorento through a network of 168 dealers nationwide. Kia Canada Inc. employs 136 people in its Mississauga, Ontario headquarters and four regional offices across Canada. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan -- "The Power to Surprise" -- represents the company's global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

Kia Canada Releases Info on 2011 Forte Sedan and Koup

PRESS RELEASE: 2011 Forte Sedan and 2011 Forte Koup set new benchmark with significant powertrain upgrades in the compact car segment

- Forte line-up includes available six-speed manual and six-speed powertrain offerings
- Transmission upgrade offers refinement coupled with exceptional fuel economy
- Kia's quest for continuous improvement includes additional upgrades to line-up

ANN ARBOR, MI, Oct. 21 /CNW/ - Kia Canada Inc. has taken the Forte line-up to an entire new level by offering six-speed manual and automatic transmissions for its entire Forte line-up in 2011. The standard manual transmission on the Forte Sedan and 2-door Koup has been improved from a five-speed to a six-speed while the standard offering on the automatic transmission receives an upgrade from a four-speed to a six-speed...READ MORE AFTER THE JUMP

[Source: Kia]

"Kia's mandate is to drive change not only in design but also in value and technology for Canadians" said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "This further enhances our best-selling product line and provides a level of technology that would normally be found in vehicles priced much higher".

The powertrain change for 2011 also provides competitive fuel economy ratings with its 2.0-litre offering and 2.4-litre engine in its class. "Fuel economy is top of mind with Canadians and providing world class fuel efficient vehicles is part of our winning formula".

The Forte Sedan offers exceptional fuel economy. The 2.0-liter engine offers 8.1/5.7 litres/100km (city/highway) when mated with the six-speed manual transmission and 8.0/5.5 litres/100km (city/highway) with the optional six-speed automatic. The more powerful 2.4-liter engine offers fuel economy at 9.2/6.2 litres/100km with the six-speed manual and 9.0/6.2litres/100km when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.

The Forte Koup fuel economy is not sacrificed for sportiness. The 2.0-liter engine offers 8.3/6.0 litres/100km (city/highway) when mated with the six-speed manual transmission and 8.0/5.7 litres/100km (city/highway) with the optional six-speed automatic. Those opting for the more powerful 2.4-liter engine also can expect an economical 9.2/6.2 litres/100km with the six-speed manual and 9.0/6.4 litres/100km when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.

In addition to powertrain enhancements, Kia designers also made some changes to the 2011 Forte sedan line-up to include the common use of the Forte 5 Door front fascia on the sedan, redesigned integrated fog lights and outside heated mirrors with LED turn-signals and new 16" aluminum wheels. Moving to the interior, the centre console has been upgraded which includes a new design, leather shifter boot, chrome lined cup-holders and outside temperature display found on the LX "Plus", EX and SX.

Across the Forte line-up, additions have been made available to the SX trim to include paddle shifter on the SX automatic transmission; Smart Key with push button start ignition on the SX Luxury automatic transmission, automatic light control, and voice activated navigation on the SX luxury and electrochromic auto-dimming mirror on the SX.

The 2011 Koup also receives an upgrade on the rear taillights by offering an available LED rear combination lamp which provides a more stylish, sporty and upscale image. The centre console has been upgraded which includes a new design, leather shifter boot, chrome lined cup-holders and outside temperature display on the 2011 Koup.

Kia also administered a variety of NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) improvements, such as adding additional sound dampening material throughout the Forte lineup as part of their continuous improvement objective.

2011 Forte Sedan
LX - Starting at $15,995
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include: 6 airbags, active front headrests, 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, ESC, power windows and locks, power heated outside mirrors, four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, tilt and steering wheel, 15" steel wheels with wheel covers.

EX - Starting at $18,495
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to LX): 16" alloy wheels, auto off headlamps, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 6 speakers audio, keyless entry, manual air conditioning, windshield wiper de-icer, heated front seats, steering wheel mounted cruise control, outside mirror with integrated turn signal, sunroof is an available option.

SX - Starting at $21,795
2.4L, 4-cylinder engine, 173hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to EX): 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Sirius satellite radio, trip computer, automatic air conditioning, leather seats, leather wrapped gear shift knob and steering wheel, power sunroof, auto light control, supervision instrument cluster, alloy sport pedals.

SX - Luxury Trim offers Navigation, Electrochromic mirror, smart key with push button ignition start (only on Automatic transmission)

2011 Forte Koup
EX - Starting at $18,995
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include: 6 airbags, active front headrests, 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, ESC, power windows and locks, power heated outside mirrors, keyless entry, air conditioning, heated front seats, cruise control, six speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 16" alloy wheels and exterior chrome door handles, front fog lamps and optional tilt and sliding sunroof.

SX - Starting at $22,295
2.4L, 4-cylinder engine, 173hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to EX): 17" alloy wheels, sport tuned suspension, automatic climate control, power tilting and sliding sunroof, leather seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, alloy sport pedals, trip computer, paddle shifter (automatic only), Sirius satellite radio (includes 3 month free trial) and supervision instrument cluster.

SX Luxury trim Offers Navigation, Electrochromic mirror, smart key with push button ignition start (only on Automatic transmission), LED rear lights

Industry-Leading Warranty
Like all Kia models, Forte Koup is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a five-year or 100,000-km limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 100,000-km limited comprehensive warranty, and a five-year unlimited-km anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/100,000-km roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

The KOUP, the Forte Sedan and Soul represent Kia's new design strategy. They have enhanced the value of Kia's current line-up, which has already shown strong appeal, and have propelled Kia into the top tier of design led brands. With the successful launch of the Soul, Forte Sedan, Forte KOUP, Sorento, Sportage and now Forte5-Door, Kia is leading the way by creating a new generation of vehicles that offer premium styling combined with exceptional value.

Kia Canada Inc. (www.kia.ca) -- a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart -- is a subsidiary of Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) in Korea was founded in 1999 and sells and services high quality class leading vehicles like the Soul, Forte and Sorento through a network of 168 dealers nationwide. Kia Canada Inc. employs 136 people in its Mississauga, Ontario headquarters and four regional offices across Canada. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan -- "The Power to Surprise" -- represents the company's global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

Kia Releases First Images of Forte Hatchback for Korea

For our readers interested in the upcoming Kia Forte Hatchback, we have two new official images from Kia as well as some information that accompanied these pictures.

According to Kia, the automaker commenced pre-orders for the Forte Hatchback in South Korea in early August. For the Korean market, the Forte Hatchback will be powered by a direct-injected version (GDI) of its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 140 horsepower and 122 lb. ft of torque. It will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and is touted to achieve 16.5 km/liter in fuel economy (38 US MPG).

Kia has not mentioned a clear sales date for the Forte Hatchback in Korea. For now, all we can do is stay tuned for more official tidbits from the automaker as the year progresses.

[Source: Kia]

READ MORE for the second official image released by Kia!

Spied: Kia Forte Hatchback Caught in the Wild

The long-anticipated five-door hatchback variant of the Kia Forte has been snapped out in the wild for the first time since making its world debut last April at the New York International Auto Show. Despite promising sales of the Forte Hatch to commence in the fall, Kia has been pretty hush about details of the newest addition to the Forte line-up.

The 5-door will be available in two four-cylinder powertrains - a 156 horsepower 2.0L and a 173 horsepower 2.4L. Available features, according to Kia, in the Forte Hatch include paddle shifters, navigation system, and push-button start. Pricing is expected to remain similar to the 4-door Forte.

Continue after the jump to view the rest of the images.

Kia Cerato Limited Goes On Sale In Australia

Kia Australia has announced the release of the limited-production 2010 Cerato (Forte in other markets) Limited today, based on the range-topping Cerato SLi trim. With just 200 units being produced, the Cerato Limited Edition adds leather seats, power sunroof, aero kit and rear spoiler to the SLi's standard features.

The Cerato SLi is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a six-function trip computer, along with cruise control, USB and iPod connectivity and a six-speaker sound system. Safety features such as anti-lock brakes, traction control system, and electronic stability control (ESC) are also standard, as well as rear sonar parking assist.

The Cerato Limited is available in the vehicle's three most popular colours: Ebony Black, Platinum Silver and Clear White. The 5-speed manual Limited is priced at AU$25,990, a $2300 jump over its SLi counterpart, while the 4-speed automatic sporting Limited retails for AU$27,990, reflecting a $2800 increase over the SLi Automatic.

Kia Australia has also confirmed in recent months that the five-door Cerato Hatch, revealed in April, will make its Australian debut in October. Pricing and details will be revealed closer to launch.

[Source: Kia Australia]

READ MORE for two more images of the Cerato Limited.

Kia Forte Earns 2010 "Top Safety Pick" by IIHS

Kia Motors has announced that its compact Forte sedan has received a "Top Safety Pick" status for 2010 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This is the third model from the Hyundai/Kia line-up to receive this prestigious title for 2010, with the other two being the Kia Soul and the all-new Hyundai Sonata.

It is important to note that this rating only applies to Forte's built after October 2009, as the automaker made revisions to the car's B-pillar and roof to qualify it for the award.

For a vehicle to qualify for the rating, it must score the top rating of Good in frontal-offset, side-impact, and rear-impact crash tests. New for 2010, a car must also score a good rating in its roof-strength test that measures occupant protection in the case of a rollover. The car must also be equipped with electronic stability control (ESC), standard equipment in the Forte.

With the new standards implemented for 2010, there are only 31 vehicles in the market that qualify for the Top Safety Pick, a low number compared to that of 2009. Other cars in the compact segment that earned the top rating are the Volkwagen Golf, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Scion xB, and Nissan Cube. Honda Civic's equipped with optional stablity control also earned the award.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

New York 2010: Kia Adds Five-Door Forte Hatchback

The Kia Forte line-up has just received a new member to sit next to the sedan and Koup versions: a five-door version that will go on sale in October.

The 2011 Forte 5-door version will be available will all the options from the sedan, but will also include a new front grille, alloy wheels, lower valence design, center console, paddle shifters, push-button start and navigation.

Under the hood there will be a choice of the 2.0 and 2.4-liter engines and a new six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Basically, Kia has taken the Forte and Koup, added a fifth door, and made some additional minor adjustments. Voila, a whole "new" car.

Continue reading for Kia's short press release and more hi-res images.

Excerpt from Kia Press Release on NYIAS

Also making its world premiere in New York is the Forte (’Cerato’ in some markets) five-door. Keeping in line with the stylish and practical Forte compact sedan and first-for-Kia Forte Koup, the Forte five-door adds another attractive option to the Forte family.

Forte five-door builds on the popular Forte compact sedan and bold Forte Koup by employing another practical yet modern iteration of the platform. Lower and firmly set on its haunches, Forte five-door carries with it all the amenities of the Forte line and introduces a new front grille, alloy wheels, lower valence design, center console, paddle shifters, push-button start (already available in Forte line-up outside of North America) and navigation (available in North America only) in addition to the enhanced practicality of a fifth door for a distinct appearance and intentional practicality.

Depending on country, Forte five-door is available with three efficient gasoline engines - 1.6-litre, 2.0-litre or 2.4-litre - and a new six-speed manual or automatic transmission. North American consumers will have a choice of the 2.0 and 2.4-liter engines while customers outside of North America will be able to choose from the 1.6 and 2.0-liter powerplants.

Canada-Only Kia Forte Koup SX-R Tests Waters for Future Tuning Branch

The sub-$20,000.00 2010 Kia Forte Koup has made quite the splash amongst the younger demographics with its attractive price tag and 2.4L 173-hp engine. Its attractive, stylish yet aggressive lines clearly make a statement that Kia has stepped up to the plate to play ball, capturing a market that used to be almost exclusive to Honda, Acura and Scion. But much like their Japanese counterparts, Kia has looked towards marketing with customization and personalization, especially with the hip Forte Koup. The result? The Kia Forte Koup SX-R with a fine collection of accessories that have Forte Koup SX owners going wild for. The major disappointment for those in the US? It’s currently only available in Canada.

The buzz was started with the official debut at the Toronto Auto Show and a little less than a month later the orders are coming in. The Forte Koup SX-R will be made available to Canadian Kia dealers by mid-May with pre-orders starting now. The aesthetics of the Forte Koup has been further complemented with a front chin spoilers, new side skirts, and a rear lip spoiler. Minor details on the outside come in the form of chrome “R” badges while the interior receives “R” branded door sills. Engine performance has been enhanced thanks to an AEM Performance drop-in air filter and performance axle-back exhaust system. The car rides lower and stiffer thanks to a set of Eibach Pro lowering springs (1.3-inch drop) and a front upper strut brace. No custom car is complete without a fine set of wheels and tires and Kia delivers in a big way with a set of 18-inch Europa wheels wrapped with, surprisingly, Yokohama S-Drive performance tires. The Kia Forte Koup SX-R is available in three attractive colors: Titanium Silver, Racing Red and Black.

Now all these accessories will be available for order through Canadian Kia dealerships only for those already cruising around in Forte Koup SX. American enthusiasts will probably have to open up their wallet a little bit for freight across the border, but we anticipate many of them to be willing to do so. If you’re interested, contact any Canadian Kia dealership and reference accessory bulletin AY10 007. It’s exciting times for Kia owners and we can’t wait to see what’s next from the Korean manufacturer.

[Source: ForteForums.com]

Continue reading to view more images of the Forte Koup SX-R