Kia Forte and Rio have been on the market as small cars of the Korean automaker since the mid-2000s. Now, Kia has introduced a new small sedan for Mexico called the K3. But as the brand renames and revitalizes its range in the US, it's hard not to wonder if the K3 could replace Kia's existing small cars.
In terms of size, the K3 is between the Rio in the B segment and the Forte in the C segment. Its length is 4,545 millimeters, which makes it larger than the Rio but slightly smaller than the compact model Forte. Same zamCurrently, the K3 has a luggage volume of 544 liters.
If this newly introduced Kia K3 sounds familiar to you, it may be because it shares a few exterior design elements with Kia's large and bulky model, the K5. The headlight covers framed by Kia's characteristic "Tiger Nose" grille and the large taillight line at the rear look familiar. And the larger K5 (which even has similarities with the EV6) is notable for the "fastback-style" silhouette of the compact K3.
The interior also blends in with the rest of the Kia range. The K3 combines a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.3-inch touchscreen that extends from the driver's side to the center console. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
Power is provided by a choice of two different four-cylinder engines: a 1.6-liter unit or a more powerful 2.0-liter option. The smaller 1.6-liter engine produces 122 horsepower (91 kilowatts), while the larger 2.0-liter engine is only available on GT-Line trim and produces 150 horsepower (112 kW). The first engine is available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, while the larger engine only comes with a six-speed manual transmission.
Will the K3 replace Kia's existing small cars? It's still early to give a definitive answer to this question, but it's safe to say that the K3 is definitely an option to consider. This is a well-equipped, stylish and affordable little sedan. As Kia continues to renew its range in the US, it will be interesting to see if the K3 can stand out in sales.