The launch of the upgraded 2017 Kia Cerato Forte K3

During a launch event held at its Alexandra Road showroom on Friday the 29^th of July, Kia Motors launched the upgraded 2017 Kia Cerato Forte K3. The upgrades to the third generation Cerato Forte K3 include a refreshed exterior and interior, as well as a range of technologies to improve safety, comfort, convenience and driving pleasure. 

Visuallly, the upgraded Kia Forte K3 gains a more modern look that emphasises the car's muscular presence, while still retaining its low, coupe-like silhouette. The front is headlined by Kia's signature tiger-nose grille, as well as newly-designed headlamps and fog lamps. The rear features a new bumper and V-shaped LED taillights. 

The interior also receives a range of upgrades to create a more premium ambience. New materials have been introduced by Kia's interior designers to the dashboard and door trims, as well as to the centre fascia and console hood, while new metallic trim can be seen around the air vents. The cabin is available in two colour options with redesigned leather upholstery, with the choice of a new black-beige two-tone scheme of the classic black-on-black look.

The Cerato Forte K3 also features a range of premium technologies for improved safety, comfort and driver enjoyment. Blind Spot Detection, which provides drivers with a visual warning in the door mirror and an audible tone when another vehicle enters the driver's blind spot, is now available as an option. 

Previously only available on the driver's seat, the upgraded Cerato Forte K3 is now available with a new front-passenger seat ventilation system to improve passenger comfort. Drivers also have the new Drive Mode Select system at their disposal with three selectable modes designed to enhance driver engagement - Normal, Sport and Eco. Each drive mode varies the steering weight, transmission shift mapping as well as throttle and engine response. The new Smart Trunk System also offers added convenience to users. An optional 7.0-inch integrated touchscreen multimedia system features the latest in connectivity features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows the seamless integration between the car and the driver's smartphone. 

The 2017 Kia Cerato Forte K3 is offered in two trim levels - SX and EX. The Open Market Value (OMV) of the SX model is $17,000, while the EX model has an OMV of $14,000. According to a Kia Sales Assistant Manager, there are already 70 to 80 orders for the new Cerato Forte K3, with an even split between the EX and SX models.

Price as of press time (inclusive of COE)

Kia Cerato Forte K3 EX 1.6L (A) - $98,999
Kia Cerato Forte K3 SX 1.6L (A) - $105,999