2014 Kia Forte previewed

Offering an early look at what we can expect to see in the 2014 Kia Forte, the automaker has released a pair of teaser images that show the next generation of its global best-selling Cerato model in home-market guise. Due to go on sale in Korea later this year with new K3 domestic-only nomenclature, it's scheduled to arrive here as the 2014 Forte sedan during the first quarter of next year. Like the current Forte, this replacement will subsequently spawn both a 5-door hatchback and a coupe variant to round out the family.

Kia has not released any detailed mechanical specifications on the new K3/Cerato/Forte, including whether or not the lineup will include one or more variants that will carry EPA ratings that meet or exceed the benchmark 40 mpg highway figure. However, it has confirmed that this impressive successor will be longer, lower and wider than the car it replaces.

To the extent that these official factory renderings reflect reality, it also features far bolder bodywork contours and sculpting plus a sweeping roofline set off with a dramatic execution of Kia's signature grille and prominent lighting elements that collectively add loads more style and sophistication to the mix. Fully redesigned inside as well, this rival to cars like the Chevy Cruze, Dodge Dart, Honda Civic, Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla as well as its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Elantra, also will offer an even larger cabin with more upscale appointments.