Overview & Reviews

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.

Although the first Forte was generally a good car that also boasted strong crash test scores, the more refined second-generation version propelled this Kia to high honors in a very competitive class. Specifically, the newer Forte more than holds its own against the old segment standbys in terms of style, features, driving dynamics, fuel economy and value. Thanks to its choice of three body styles versus the more typical one or two, the Forte is able to appeal to several types of buyers whether they prefer a traditional sedan, a dynamic coupe or a practical hatchback.

Current Kia Forte
Redesigned for 2014, the current Forte is available as a sedan in LX (1.8L) and EX (2.0L) trim levels. The four-door hatchback (Forte 5) and two-door coupe (Koup) are available in EX and turbocharged SX trims.

There are three four-cylinder engines: a 1.8-liter with 148 horsepower, a 2.0-liter with 173 hp and a turbocharged 1.6-liter packing 201 hp. Power runs to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The EPA combined fuel economy estimates range from 24-29 mpg, depending on engine and transmission.

Standard feature highlights include air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and USB/iPod/auxiliary inputs. Midlevel trims add a more powerful engine, alloy wheels, foglights, keyless entry, a voice-activated infotainment system with Bluetooth audio connectivity and a rearview camera. The SX trims also include sporty styling tweaks, xenon headlights, LED taillights, dual-zone air-conditioning and a navigation system. Options (depending on trim) include a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a ventilated eight-way power driver seat and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

In reviews we've found the EX's substantial equipment level more than compensates for its slightly lower fuel economy. Furthermore, the 2.0 is one of the peppier four-cylinders out there so it never feels like an economy car. In Edmunds testing, a Kia Forte EX sedan accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in its segment. Of course, if sporty is what you're after in a compact car, we'd recommend the turbocharged engine with the manual transmission for maximum performance and fun.

Overall, the Forte has precise steering, and handling is steady. On upper trim levels, you can even adjust the steering effort via a three-mode (Comfort/Normal/Sport) button on the wheel. Most shoppers in this segment will likely be satisfied with the Forte's overall ride quality. That said, broken pavement can produce a somewhat rougher ride than what you'll find in the Forte's well-established European or Japanese rivals.

Used Kia Forte Models
The first-generation Kia Forte was available from 2010-'13 as a four-door sedan or two-door coupe (Koup). The four-door hatchback (Forte 5) joined the lineup in 2011. The sedan was available in LX, EX and SX trims, while the hatchback and coupe were EX and SX only. The LX and EX came with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that made 156 hp. The SX came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 173 hp.

For the LX and EX, the initial transmission choices included a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, while the SX offered a standard six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic. The latter came standard on the EX with the available Fuel Economy package. For 2011, transmissions choices were simplified, as the six-speed manual transmission was standard on all but the hatchbacks, which came with a six-speed automatic. The latter was an option on the others.

The base Forte came standard with air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone connection, satellite radio and a CD stereo with auxiliary/USB audio jacks. Upgrading to the EX model added alloy wheels, full power accessories, cruise control and, on 2012-'13 models a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The Forte coupe featured a firmer suspension, a retuned exhaust and sport seats. The EX sedan and hatch were available with that Fuel Economy package, which added low-rolling-resistance tires, aerodynamic enhancements and electric (rather than hydraulic) power steering. The sportier SX trim featured the larger engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, firmer suspension tuning (sedan) and various interior upgrades. The SX coupe further received suspension retuning. Leather upholstery, heated seats and a sunroof were optional on the SX.

The driving experience largely depends on which version and from which year Forte you're in. We feel the first year (2010), while not to be avoided, isn't the year to look for due to the somewhat dated automatic transmissions. As such, we'd suggest going with a 2011 or later Forte, which in addition to featuring six-speed transmissions across the board, also had better standard and optional equipment including navigation. Taller drivers should note that a telescoping steering column was available on SX models only in 2010 and '11, then also on the EX in 2012 and '13.

In reviews, our editors praised the Kia Forte's relatively generous front and rear seating, tidy styling and clean and pleasant cabin layout. The LX and EX handled like typical economy cars, meaning distant steering, noticeable body roll when pushed and a comfortable, though sometimes noisy ride. The SX -- the coupe in particular -- was a completely different story with its sportier handling and notably firmer ride. Although it still wasn't quite as much fun as the sprightly Honda Civic Si, the SX provided enough entertainment behind the wheel to make it a good choice for driving enthusiasts.

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

User Reviews:

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  So many problems, so few miles - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Thornytoes - April 16 - 6:41 pm

  Clutch and flywheel had to be replaced at 70K miles at a cost of over $1500. No aftermarket parts widely available. Speedometer/Odometer replaced at approximately 75K miles. Entire rack and pinion steering assembly had to be replaced at 85K miles at a cost of over $1000. Tires on this care barely reach 15K miles without going bald. Brakes and rotors replaced at 85K miles. This car, while fun to drive and very good looking is expensive to maintain and not very reliable. It is my second Kia and possibly my last. I would advise against any manual transmission in this car. This is a very difficult clutch to drive, and I have driven many. When you have to replace it, get ready pay big bucks.

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  Kia Koup is the way to go - 2010 Kia Forte
  By morganturskey - April 14 - 10:00 am

  When I first started looking at cars i looked at used cars like Audi, Mercedes, and BMW. All great choices until you look at the warranties and cost of ownership. I then turned to the Kia Forte Koup SX and fell in love immediately. It is just as fast to 60 and handles better than you would think. It easily takes on-ramps at 55 mph with no tire squeal. So much more room than other coupes in the market. It even beat my roommates 2010 Ford Mustang V6 in a race. Limiter is set to 132 mph compared to the mustangs 116 mph. For those of you who like music, the stock radio is great but if you love more bass i suggest putting two 12 inch subs and 1000 watt amp. It makes it sound so much better.

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  Must Consider this car! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Mister Tough - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Very pleased overall with performance, styling & creature comforts. Note: Do not see engine temperature / charge / oil pressure gauge. Owned Chevys my entire life. Never thought I would own anything else. The recession changed my way of thinking to consider best possible value for the dollar. After looking at American makes, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, decided that Kia offered the most car / most features / best performance / best economy / best safety / best warranty for the dollar. For less than the cost of one repair bill, upgraded to 10 yr / 100K mi Bumper-To-Bumper warranty. The total price tag was less than any other new car and many 1-8 yr used cars.

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  The best economy car there is. - 2017 Kia Forte
  By Charles S - April 1 - 9:30 pm

  I have owned this car since brand new, today marks one year of me having it. My MPG is at least 15% higher than the mileage shown on the sticker, I get at least 40 on the highway when Im not even trying to be conservative. The car has 25k miles, and I have not had a single issue. I drove cross country with my Forte, and it excelled above any rental Ive ever driven in comfort , efficiency, and acceleration on the highway. I would highly, highly recommended the Forte. Plus, Kia gave me 3 years free routine maintenance, awesome customer service, they care that you come back.

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  4dr Kia Forte SX (5A) w/ leather - 2010 Kia Forte
  By MarquetteBBall - March 31 - 4:06 pm

  I know Im in the honeymoon period right now seeing as Ive only had the car for 3 days, but Im really impressed with my purchase. Kia definitely surprised me with the Forte. I never thought Id buy a Kia but I couldnt be happier at the moment. The SX with leather is definitely the best trim to go. I got it in Spicy Red, which comes with red stitching on the leather, heated seats. I love the auto shutoff on the headlights/fog lights. The steering wheel controls are very well planned out and the steering wheel itself looks great. The back seat and the trunk have significantly more room than other comparable compact sedans like the Focus, Corolla, and Civic.Engine has alot of peppiness to it

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  Buy a coleman grill instead - 2012 Kia Forte
  By krkelsoe - March 12 - 8:08 pm

  Well, I bought mine brand new in December. Took her off the lot with 33 miles. I added a lowering kit, 20" wheels, and exhaust. I loved that car. It was fun to drive, but pretty slow. Still really caught a lot of looks though... But then I was driving home from buying bread last week and she went up in flames in mere minutes. Not sure what happened, and its under investigation with Kia. It only had 8,900 miles on it. Just feel like people should know. If I had kids in the back or was disabled or slow-moving, there could have been serious injuries.

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  My First New Car - 2010 Kia Forte
  By kurtybee - March 11 - 11:36 pm

  I have been driving used cars my entire life. Driving became a chore instead of a joy. When the transmission suddenly broke in my Sable without warning I decided to buy a new car. I made a V line for the Kia Forte. It is the best looking car in its class. I picked up the 5 speed auto with the Eco package and I am very pleased with it. The car has better acceleration than the 4 speed and the steering is smoother and more comfortable. The headroom, leg room, and trunk space in this car is unbelieve. Kia did a good job using the space provided. I am 510 and I find my sisters civic to feel cramped. I felt like a was driving in a sardine can. The Forte has room to spare. I love to drive again.

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  Kia Forte SX - From 0 - 225k Miles - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Tim C. - March 8 - 9:19 pm

  I bought my Kia Forte SX Sedan with manual transmission brand new back in August 0f 2010. I had fallen on some pretty challenging financial times and owned a very unreliable used American made automobile. I shopped around heavily in attempt to find something reliable but also within my financial means to get around to work and to tote my little daughter around safely. I visited the Kia dealership in Ann Arbor, MI. They had this model sitting in the show room. I was looking for something less in cost, but they were very motivated to move out this particular vehicle due to it being a manual, which in that area was a tough sell for the market the dealership was in. I preferred owning a manual transmission, so I drove it, loved it, and the dealer worked out a great deal to help me help them. Fast forward to November of 2017 ... I have 225,000 original miles on the engine. Vehicle runs like it did the day I bought it. The body is in near mind condition with zero rust. Most amazing is that I have never had to replace the clutch or any part of the manual transmission! 225k miles with the original clutch! Ive never owned a car where I had so little to repair while keeping up on basic maintenance and service. I just recently decided to hand over the keys to this wonderful ride over to my teenage daughter who I taught to drive a manual. She is new at it all, but also loves the car that she grew up riding around in. Im not sure how many more miles that quick little Forte SX has left in it, but Im anticipating many more safe and reliable miles to go. Hats off to Kia Motors!

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  Good car but not best in class - 2010 Kia Forte
  By gonavy1072 - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought a KIA Forte as a replacement for my Ford Focus. If I had it to do over, Id get another Focus with SYNC. Automatic transmission shifts VERY early to the point that at times you think it is going to stall. This is by design for fuel efficiency. Good exterior look and good fuel economy; about 30 MPG highway. The bluetooth interface is strange; you cant turn it on and off only using the radio controls. You have to use radio control AND voice command. Inconvenient when more than one person is in the car. iPod interface also drains the iPod battery if left plugged in. This is a known issue. Not a bad car for the money but it could be a GREAT car!

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  Pretty good bang for your buck - 2016 Kia Forte
  By Katie - February 20 - 1:10 pm

  I was in the market for a used car but ended up purchasing the Kia Forte new because of the rebates. I have never liked hatchbacks but this body type fits my current needs and looks better than most in my opinion. This car is comfortable to drive and even the base model is a great upgrade from what I was in. I was really impressed with the warranty offered with this vehicle.