Kia's Hot Hatch Combines European-Influenced Styling and Performance with Five-door Convenience and Practicality

• Improved packaging and a broad array of technology enhances the value of the Forte5

•Sporty SX model features 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower

IRVINE, Calif., July 7, 2015 – Carrying over into 2016, the Forte5's stunning European-inspired hatchback design continues to deliver a wealth of technology, safety and performance features in the five-door version of its award-winning sedan sibling.

Previously available in two trim levels, the 2016 Forte5 is now offered in three trims – LX, EX and SX – with two different engine choices. The new Forte5 LX and EX comes with a 2.0-liter gasoline direct injected (GDI) four-cylinder engine, while the sportier SX trim offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder. The SX comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters is available.

In keeping with Kia's reputation for tremendous value, the Forte5 presents an impressive assortment of amenities, technology, and performance. The new LX model comes standard with cruise control, keyless entry with remote trunk release, 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio1, Bluetooth® wireless technology2. Power windows, air conditioning and power heated outside mirrors are among the many features that make the Forte5 a leader in its segment.

The 2016 Forte5 rides on a MacPherson strut front suspension, and FlexSteer®, standard on the EX and SX trims, puts the driver in control with settings for Comfort, Normal and Sport, which vary steering effort at the touch of a steering wheel-mounted button3.

The EX trim adds additional standard features including a new 4.3-inch Rear Camera Display4, 17-inch wheels, LED positioning lights, power folding outside mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Features found in the optional Premium Technology Package include heated front seats, leather seat trim, power sunroof, push-button start with Smart Key, LED taillights, navigation4 with HD RadioTM5. Also new this year is a Premium Tech Package that includes two-way power adjustable heated driver's seat, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and dual-zone automatic temperature control with center console rear vents. The sporty SX trim comes standard with a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, larger front brake rotors, LED taillights, sport front and rear bumpers, dual exhaust, push-button start with Smart Key, UVO eServices Telematics, and metal pedals.

Conceived under the watchful eye of Kia's global chief of design Peter Schreyer, the Forte5's sophisticated hatchback profile, large wheels and aggressive posture give it a distinctly European appearance that speaks to its performance intentions. The chiseled body commands attention and continues Kia's tradition as a design leader in the industry.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA proudly serves as the 'Official Automotive Partner' of the NBA and LPGA and set an all-time annual sales record in 2014, surpassing the 500,000 unit mark for the third consecutive year. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles, including the rear-drive K900 flagship sedan** Cadenza premium sedan, Sorento CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Soul Electric Vehicle***, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, the Forte compact sedan, Forte5 and Forte Koup, Rio and Rio 5-door subcompacts and the Sedona midsize multi-purpose vehicle, through a network of more than 765 dealers across the United States. Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, builds the Optima* and Sorento* and is responsible for the creation of more than 14,000 plant and supplier jobs.

by Kia