Although still a relatively fresh product, Kia will replace its Forte compact with a redesigned model early in 2013. Kia will first launch a Forte sedan in January, followed by coupe and hatchback variants of the compact in the summer of 2013. The new Forte models will be branded as 2014s.
Following the launch of the new Forte Kia will introduce its all-new Cadenza sedan during the summer of 2013. Based on the same architecture that underpins the Hyundai Azera, the Cadenza will stand as Kia's flagship model, at least for the time being. Stretching about five-inches longer than the Kia Optima, the Cadenza will arrive with a 3.5L V6 and a price tag in the upper $30,000s to low $40,000s.
Although not full redesigns, both the Sportage SUV and Optima sedas will be given light updates in the summer of 2013 for the 2014 model year.
During late summer Kia will introduce an all-new version of its popular Soul hatchback. The 2014 Soul will switch to a modified version of the Hyundai-Kia subcompact platform that underpins the Kia Rio and Hyundai Accent. As detailed before, the 2014 Soul will retain its unique exterior styling, but should gain a more up-scale interior.
Looking farther down the road, Kia will introduce a new flagship called the Quoris sometime in 2014. Set to sit atop the soon-to-be-introduced Cadenza, the rear-wheel drive Quoris will be powered by a 330 horsepower 3.8L V6 engine. It remains possible the Quoris could arrive with a V8 option. Whatever the case, the Quoris will come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Quoris will be packed to the gills with technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and blind spot detection.
Kia will replace its Sorento crossover, the marque's best-selling vehicle in the United States, with an all-new version in either 2015 or 2016. At that time the Sorento will switch to the Hyundai Santa Fe's platform.
The future of Kia's stunning GT Concept remains up in the air for now. Peter Schreyer, Kia's global design boss, is said to be lobbying for a production version of the GT Concept, but Hyundai executives have yet to come up with a solid business case for the car. Even if given the green light, the GT Concept is likely at least three years out from production.
