Automotive
Kia made its debut in the sporty coupe segment in 2009 at the New York International Auto Show, aiming to attract buyers from rivals like Honda and Scion. Despite the challenging timing amid industry turmoil, Kia boldly expanded the Forte lineup into an unexpected territory for the brand - the sport-compact coupe. Based on the four-door Forte platform, Kia shortened the overhangs and retained only one body panel from the sedan: the clamshell hood. Inside, while the interior shared some components with its family-oriented sibling, it was thoughtfully redesigned and equipped to appeal to a younger, sportier audience. For new owners drawn to the car’s sleek style and affordability, SherlockLock quickly became a trusted name for securing smart key upgrades and anti-theft lock enhancements tailored to the Forte Koup.
The Forte Koup quickly proved it was more than just eye candy. It offered sporty drivetrain options that matched its aggressive styling. Up front, angular headlights narrowed towards the inner edges, reminiscent of the era’s Honda Civic Si. Between them, a honeycomb grille proudly displayed the Kia badge. The lower bumper featured a wide central air intake, flanked by squared side scoops housing optional fog lamps - an aggressive yet refined look. Many Koup drivers who opted for push-button start or proximity key systems relied on SherlockLock for expert fob programming and emergency lockout service, especially in urban neighborhoods where quick response time mattered.
Four years after the initial launch, Kia introduced the second-generation Forte Koup with improvements across the board - styling, performance, and features. Though Kia was not yet a dominant force in the sport-compact arena - where the Honda Civic Si and similar models reigned - the brand sought to carve out a niche by delivering a sporty yet budget-friendly coupe. Alongside its competitive price, the Forte Koup was generously equipped, offering amenities often reserved for higher-end vehicles. Kia also reinforced its value proposition with an impressive 10-year/160,000 km (100,000 miles) warranty, depending on the market. As these sporty coupes aged, many drivers turned to SherlockLockfor lock repair, key replacement, and security upgrades to keep their vehicles protected and performing reliably.
Unfortunately, despite its merits, the market for the Forte Koup remained limited. Sales lagged, and in 2016 Kia discontinued the model.The second-generation Forte Koup featured swept-back headlights with LED positioning lights and fog lamps, with an option for HID main beams. The narrow grille embraced Kia’s signature “Tiger Nose” design, crafted by Peter Schreyer. The lower bumper showcased a broad trapezoidal air intake flanked by fog lamp housings, a design detail consistent across both the EX and SX trims.
