It has arrived. Kia Motors decided to pull it early and release the first official images of the 2009/10 Forte today. Acting as the replacement for the aging Spectra/Cerato compact, the Forte will roll into Korean showrooms on August 22.

The Forte was penned by acclaimed designer Peter Schreyer, who was responsible for designing the first-generation Audi TT and Volkswagen New Beetle. It is one of the brand's first models to carry its new sharper corporate look. One of the main elements of the new look is the corporate grille found on the KOUP Concept, KEE Concept, and now the Forte. The rear resembles the Hyundai Elantra and vaguely, the Lexus IS.

The Forte will be powered by a brand new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. A more powerful 2.0-liter 4-cyliner engine will be released after the launch. The Forte will roll into U.S. showrooms in 2009, and a two-door variant will follow some months later.

[Source: Kia]

via thecarblogger