The new generation Kia Forte (K3/Cerato) made its American debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, showing off its good looks with an eye-catching metallic blue color and an elegant chrome grille. The third-gen Forte goes on sale in the first quarter of 2013 with two engines and two trim levels.

First we have the Kia Forte LX powered by a 1.8-liter powerplant developing 148 horsepower and 131 lb.-ft. of torque, and standard equipment such as steering wheel mounted audio controls, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth wireless technology, power windows, air conditioning and power heated outside mirrors among the many features that make the Kia Forte stand out from its competition.

Then there’s the EX model powered by a 173-horsepower and 154 lb.-ft. of torque 2.0-liter inline four cylinder GDI engine. This one is more luxurious and comes with UVO in-vehicle infotainment system and navigation, as well as remote keyless entry with trunk opener, rear camera back-up display, a sliding center armrest and a cooling glove box, in addition to all the stuff the LX has.

Optional is a Flex Steer system that allows the driver to choose between three distinct steering profiles: Comfort, Normal and Sport, and also a Premium Package, which adds features like heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with class-exclusive air-cooled ventilation, leather seat trim, power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and push button start with Smart Key and a heated steering wheel.

Pricing for the new Forte is yet to be confirmed.