The second-generation Kia Forte (YD) debuted in late 2012. It grew longer (4,560 mm), lower, and wider than its predecessor, with a 2,700 mm wheelbase matching mid-size standards. Exterior design featured sweeping fluid body lines, teardrop LED headlamps, and a sculpted profile. Body styles continued as a 4-door sedan, a Forte5 5-door hatchback, and a 2-door Forte Koup. This generation of the Forte (YD) was produced from 2012 to 2018 and offered in седан, хэтчбек, купе body styles. Built on an engineered platform, it features strong structural rigidity, refined aerodynamics, and advanced occupant safety engineering.

Engines featured direct-injection units: 1.8-liter MPI (148 hp), 2.0-liter Nu GDI (173 hp), and a turbocharged 1.6-liter T-GDI delivering 201 hp for SX versions of the Koup and Forte5. A 2016 refresh aligned the front fascia with the Optima sedan, introducing slim headlights, vertical bumper air intakes, and a new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine (147 hp). The powertrain lineup features modern engines optimized for thermal efficiency, balancing responsive acceleration with economical fuel consumption. Power is delivered through reliable manual or automatic transmissions. Mid-cycle updates introduced modernized LED lighting graphics, premium cabin materials, and enhanced active driver assistance suites.