Kia Forte Review

In recent years, some of the most improved players on the automotive playing field have been entry-level compact sedans. Many of these so-called economy cars now offer levels of style and equipment that rival larger and more expensive cars. A good example is the Kia Forte. While it's hardly the MVP in this segment, the Forte is by far the most appealing small car from Kia.

One of the Forte's advantages is its distinctive styling, which helps it stand out in a segment that's often full of conservative-looking models. Kia also offers it in three body styles: sedan, hatchback and the two-door "Koup." The engine lineup consists of a base 2.0-liter inline-4 on LX and EX models, and a larger 2.4-liter four on the sporty SX.

Amid the growing crowd of compacts, this affordable Kia holds its own. We consider the Forte a legitimate alternative to traditional segment leaders due to its eye-catching style, competitive feature content and good value. Should you be interested in a fun little car at a low price, the Forte is worth a look.

Current Kia Forte
The Kia Forte is a compact car available as a four-door sedan, four-door hatchback or two-door coupe that Kia calls the Koup. The sedan is available in LX, EX and SX trims, while the hatchback and coupe are EX and SX only.

The LX and EX come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes a healthy 156 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the hatchback, which comes with a six-speed automatic. The latter is an option on all models. The SX comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 173 hp, paired to either a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic.

The Forte comes standard with stability control, Bluetooth, satellite radio and a CD stereo with auxiliary/USB audio jacks and steering-wheel controls. Upgrading to the EX model adds alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control and the availability of leather trim and heated seats. The Forte coupe features a firmer suspension, a retuned exhaust and sport seats, while the EX sedan and hatch are eligible for a Fuel Economy package that adds low-rolling-resistance tires, aerodynamic enhancements and electric power steering.

The sportier SX trim features the larger engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, firmer suspension tuning (sedan), a telescoping steering wheel and various interior upgrades. The SX coupe gets a further suspension retune and blinking lights in its speakers. Heated seats and a sunroof are optional on the SX.

In reviews, our editors have praised the Kia Forte's tidy styling, noting that its Civic-like face and Lexus IS-style taillights are derivative but nonetheless sure to grab their share of attention. We've also praised this Kia's clean and pleasant cabin layout.

The driving experience largely depends on which Forte version you're in. The LX and EX are standard economy car fare -- lots of body roll, numb steering and a comfortable ride. The SX -- the coupe in particular -- is a completely different story. It's still not as sporting as a Honda Civic Si, but the SX's overall driving dynamics put it at the head of the sub-$20,000 class.

Used Kia Forte Models
The Forte was introduced for 2010. In its first year, only the sedan and Koup were available. Also of note for first-year Fortes: The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, and the main automatic transmission was only a four-speed. The five-speed automatic was optional with the EX Fuel Economy package and the SX.

Previous to the Forte, Kia's small car offering was the underwhelming Spectra.