Kia Motors America has today unveiled a new 5-door version of the Forte at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show.

The sleek five-door hatchback has what Kia describes as 'European styling', and goes head-to-head with cars like the Ford Focus with its hatchback practicality.

Topping the engine range is a 1.6-liter gasoline direct injection, turbocharged engine. With a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, the 1.6 GDI develops 201 horsepower and 195 lbs-ft of torque.

A non-turbo, gasoline direct injection 2.0-liter will also be available, with 173-horsepower and 154 lbs-ft of torque.

Official fuel consumption figures haven't yet been revealed, though the same 1.6-liter GDI engine in the Veloster, made by Kia's owner Hyundai, is capable of 28 mpg combined, and 35 mpg highway.

The current 2013 Kia Forte with a 2.0-liter engine makes 29 mpg combined, so expect the 2014 car to do a little better.

EX models with the 2.0 feature 16-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a leather steering wheel, cruise control and more. Move up to the 1.6 SX, and you get 18-inch alloys, a more aggressive front facia, bigger brakes, sport seats and more. Sport-tuned suspension is standard on all Forte 5-door models,

2014 Kia Forte 5-Door

2014 Kia Forte 5-Door

Kia has aimed for sporty styling with the Forte 5-door, but practicality too--there's 23.2 cubic feet of cargo space, slightly above that of the Focus hatchback and 3.2 cu-ft more than the old Forte 5-door.

The Forte 5-door is expected to go on sale in the third quarter of 2013. Pricing details will be announced closer to launch.

For more information from the Chicago Auto Show, head to our dedicated show page.

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