The very first images of the new 2009 Kia Forte sedan have been released, giving us a look at what the next-generation Kia Spectra will look like here on the stateside. As anticipated, the design has been heavily influenced by the Kia KOUP Concept shown at the 2008 New York Auto Show. Along with the Kia Borrego, the Kia Forte is Kias new look with the H-shaped grille becoming the Kia trademark in the future.

Kia will offer the Forte with two gasoline engines including a 1.6 liter 4-cylinder version producing 124-hp along with a 2.0 liter that will be available soon after launch.

A coupe variant of the Kia Forte will arrive later in the year. As reported yesterday, Kia will now offer the next-generation Spectra in a sedan and coupe variant. The hatchback version has been axed from the U.S. lineup. More details and images are expected when Kia officially takes the wraps off the Forte on August 21st.