The 2024 Kia K3 Could Be Our Rio And Forte Successor
Kia’s latest sedan could come to the rest of North America.
It’s no secret that the traditional sedan and hatchback shapes aren’t as popular as in years past, with many manufacturers opting to cancel them altogether. However, fewer competitors mean that the remaining automakers that still produce sedans are free to gobble up the still-sizable amount of sedan buyers. Hyundai and Kia are still somewhat successful with sedans and hatchbacks, and the latest Kia K3 could be a preview of what the next generation of Kia sedans could be.
Unveiled in Mexico City, the Kia K3 is a new sedan that appears to do double duty acting as a Rio and Forte replacement. Its 178.9 inch long length is 3.8 inches shorter than the current Forte, but 6.3 inches longer than the Rio. Its overall dimensions split the difference between the two models.
Stylistically, the K3 looks a lot like what we’ve seen from modern Kia products, like the recently facelifted Seltos. The “Tiger Nose” makes an appearance here, along with less-than-obvious headlight units flanked with daytime running lights that stretch down the bumper cover. At the rear, a full-length taillight bar takes up most of the trunk lid’s real estate. The GT-line package adds snazzy wheels and black trim for a sportier look.
The interior is typical of modern Kia. It has a shroudless dual-screen setup and slim buttons that look very similar to what is currently in the Kia Niro.
Power comes from a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine mated to a 6-speed auto or 6-speed manual, or a 2.0-liter engine also mated to a 6-speed automatic. Kia says that some markets will get a 1.4-liter engine, too.
Although the sizing is odd, and the interior is a little basic, we think the K3 could be a potential replacement for both the Rio and Forte in the U.S. and Canada. The K3 moniker is used interchangeably with Forte in other markets, and this new vehicle will be made on the same line as those two models. The Forte and Rio are two of the oldest models in Kia’s lineup, they’re in dire need of replacement.
The Kia K3 will be available in Mexico starting this winter, with other markets soon to follow. Kia hasn’t confirmed if the K3 will be sold north of Mexico’s borders.
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Kevin has been obsessed with cars ever since he could talk. He even learned to read partially by learning and reading the makes and models on the back of cars, only fueling his obsession. Today, he is an automotive journalist and member of the Automotive Press Association. He is well-versed in electrification, hybrid cars, and vehicle maintenance.
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It's not interesting looking, speaking for myself. It resembles a Nissan Versa.
Unfortunately the Versa comes with a common, ordinary warranty, so this Kia comes out ahead in that scheme of things. If the Forte is discontinued it would be a pity. That machine IS fine looking and much nicer to the eye than the ubiquitous Toyota Corolla imo. Oh well... ♐