The third generation of the Forte was introduced at the 2018 North American International Motor Show and it included cues inspired by the Stinger.
The Forte was the Elantra’s sibling built by Kia and designed by Peter Schreyer. The Forte was launched as a 4-door sedan or a 5-door fastback, featuring the same shape as the Hyundai Elantra Fastback from other continents. Thus, the two twin vehicles covered most of the body versions for the compact segment, apart from a station-wagon and a convertible.

The sedan version of the compact Forte was the Kia equivalent for the Elantra, but with a sportier look. The headlights design showed the inspiration from the Stinger. The “tiger-nose” grille was already a signature design for the Kia brand and it was successfully applied on the Forte as well.

Inside, the Forte featured a spacious interior, due to an increase in the cabin height and a longer wheelbase than its predecessor. In order to receive higher grades from the IIHS, even the base model was fitted with features such as automatic emergency braking and active lane control. Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and automatic high-beam headlights were optional. For the infotainment system, an 8” touch-screen display was on the options list.

For the powertrain, the 2018 Forte sedan was offered with only one engine in Atkinson Cycle mated to a 6-speed manual for the base model, or a CVT (named IVT by KIA) for the rest of the trim level.