Back when Kia was a relatively unknown Korean automaker trying to make a name for itself, automotive journalists were always told that some sort of compact sedan that had three names was the most successful model.
Things have changed and the Korean Jetta, as we like to call it, is not the most important Kia. Nevertheless, we want to show you the latest K3 model, also known as the Forte or Cerato in some overseas markets.
Technically, it's a facelift, but the cosmetic differences are ample, as we've come to expect from this design-led Korean automaker.
Under the hood, we find a carry-over 1.6-liter GDI engine with 132 PS. However, some technical revisions have been made, and fuel economy is better by 0.3 km/l (yes, we know that's upside down, but that’s how they measure it in Korea). That's the equivalent of 0.7 US mpg, btw.
The K3 facelift will also receive a 1.6 VGT diesel engine rated at 128 PS, the same one offered by the European cee'd and the Soul crossover.
Most of the cosmetic changes have been concentrated at the front of the car, where we get new headlights with a square outer shape and LED daytime running lights that stretch out over the fenders. The grille is also squared off and resembles that of the Optima without copying it.
The side profile has remained virtually the same without drawing attention to itself. Meanwhile, the rump of the Korean-spec K3 has new taillights with LED graphics. The bumper is also new, but nobody is going to care about that.
As usual, Kia is smothering its customers with features they like. The updated sedan doesn't have a particularly nice interior, but the clutter levels have been reduced. We're also not fans of the fake carbon trim or shiny plastic on the steering wheel. But every driver will appreciate memory seats with both heating and ventilation. There's a button that adjusts how fake heavy the steering wheel feels and, of course, Android Auto. We wouldn't want all those Samsung owners to feel left out!
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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