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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  Extend warranty - 2010 Kia Forte
  By VICTOR - November 17 - 10:43 am

  I bought the sx sedan few days ago, Kia trying to sell me on the extended 10 yr warranty for around $32 mo for 60 mo. Sounded like the 1st 5 yrs are the same as Kia warranty. Also, I got car for $17,800 otd everything except leather, not sure yet if I like the sunroof

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  Great Car! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By jason33 - November 11 - 5:06 am

  We bought this sporty Kia after much research. We looked at and drove the Mazda 3, Honda Civic, Toyota Corrola,and Scion Tc, hands down the Forte was the winner. We got leather heated seats, 2.4 liter engine, moon roof, tinted windows and 17 inch wheels, for $20,130 minus rebates of,1,000 and a 500 dollar owner loyalty rebate (traded in an 2002 Kia sportage) so $18,630 out the door. The Mazda, toyota and Honda were all over $24,000 with no rebate and warranty that cant compare. This Kia is built well. And Kia has improved by leaps and bounds since my 2002 sportage was built. We love this car, it performs as well or better than the competition. I cant say enough good about our little Kia!

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  Best decision I made! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Brandon Arenibar - November 10 - 5:20 pm

  Ive owned my Forte Koup for two weeks now and it seems to get better everyday. Things I didnt notice on my test drive like the awesome sound of the muffler, very sporty, and pep. You really need to get used to ECO mode and learn how to drive with it to tell, but my car is quick. It doesnt feel like it either, next thing you know youre at 70. All the features you have in this car seem like they should be in a high end model. No car that I have looked at has the quality and amount of features standard. I also have to give a shout to KIA, the support for this purchase has been amazing. They wont stop sending me thank yous and free maintenance coupons, etc. I am so pleased with them

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  Best Car Every Purchased - 2010 Kia Forte
  By LMS - November 9 - 7:48 pm

  I bought this car new in April, 2010. I have since driven it 136,000 miles. Besides the normal maintenance & wear and tear, I have not had a serious issue with this car. Not once! It has been extremely reliable. Driven from PA to NC on multiple occasions, and daily gets over 50 miles to and from work. If you are looking for a car that is reliable and cost effective, take a look at a 2010 Kia Forte. Even if high miles, Id think this would be a great purchase. Heres to getting to 200k and having the same review!

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  2010 forte EX review - 2010 Kia Forte
  By stevenmark - October 27 - 10:33 pm

  Purchased this car as a birthday present to myself a few weeks ago. This car rides, looks, and feels as if I spent thousands more on it. I test drove other vehicles in its class such as Toyota corolla, Mazda 3, civic sedan, just to name a few and the forte won out over these cars. The Mazda and Honda had horrible road noise where as the forte was very quiet inside.

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  The Best deal for the Money! - 2013 Kia Forte
  By belljackie - October 8 - 8:28 pm

  Phenominal!

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  GREAT VALUE - 2010 Kia Forte
  By GEORGE - September 25 - 2:56 pm

  the styling is well thought out, attractive from any angle. simple, but functional

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  Excellent Value - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Mike - September 25 - 1:56 am

  Great car for the money! Loaded with standard features and has a sleek look to it unlike its predecessor. I also own a 2007 Civic and the Forte is comparable in almost all areas. The gear ratio feels awkward at times, but you get used to it. So far I am sub 30 mpg combined. I would like to see that go up. Overall, an outstanding compact sedan!

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  Love this car - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Robin - August 28 - 1:13 pm

  I bought my 2010 Kia new. I love the way it handles. It has a sleek design. It was priced right... in the seven years Ive had it, I have done nothing more than put on a new set of tires, alignment, new battery, and oil/fluid changes. I would have had it seven more years had someone not rear-ended me hard and totaled it. I will now buy another new Forte Koup EX.

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  Perfect car for commuting - 2014 Kia Forte
  By won_yoon - August 8 - 11:31 pm

  I purchased my a completely redesigned 2014 Forte in October 2013. Now with 24k miles with it, I have no complain what so ever. It has an adequate power and great gas mileage. I get constantly 35 miles combined city and highway. I cannot imagine any better car for what I paid. I graduated from Honda Civics (3 previous generations) and have no regret. Every time I park my car and I smile at the car to see how good it looks from front.