Kia has teased the sharp LED taillights of a new K3 sedan ahead of its debut on August 8, but the teaser has us confused over the brand's current compact sedans. The K3's edgy taillights, which are not dissimilar from the show-stopping EV9 electric crossover, closely resemble prototypes that were thought to be a new generation for the Rio subcompact sedan. But according to Kia's official teaser, those same taillights belong to the K3, which is currently the name for what Americans would call the Forte, or what other markets would refer to as the Cerato.

Interestingly, both small sedans are produced in Mexico, which is where the next K3 is set to make its debut. That brings us to our conclusion that both the Forte and Rio could be merged into one model, which would bear the K3 nameplate worldwide. Neither sedan is a best-seller at the moment, so combining both into one would make a lot of sense in terms of costs.

An official statement from Kia further hints at the merger between the two sedans. The company calls the new K3 a "unique milestone" that "combines sophisticated design and a spacious interior, redefining market segments and drawing attention from upper-segment buyers."

However, it's worth noting that right-hand drive markets likely won't get the new K3, which includes Australia and parts of Europe. It's even been said that Kia's small sedan offerings are at risk in places like the U.S. or Canada. But regardless of where it's sold, we'll find out what's really going on when the K3 is revealed on August 8.

Do you think this is a replacement for the Forte, Rio, or both?

Image Credits: Kia