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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  go for ride - 2016 Kia Forte
  By Brad Steele - April 15 - 10:33 pm

  Great car and fun to drive!

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  New purchase! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Jack - March 16 - 11:30 am

  I just bought this today. Noted items: As others have said, great performance, looks good, good ride, OK on road noise,lots of features at a great price. Id like better rear view with the mirror, but the headrests seem to block a bit. I didnt notice any problem with the 4-speed gearing like the main review; things felt fine to me. Door closing seemed a little tinny, as in "not as solid" as some Id driven. I mainly looked at Elantras as an option, but their high engine noise and lower acceleration made the difference. Minor differences include a more solid feel in the Elantra and better cup holders, but for overall value, the Forte seems hard to beat. I havent tried all the features yet.

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  Would not wish this thing on my worst enemies - 2016 Kia Forte
  By Nick F - February 18 - 9:07 am

  I would advise anyone looking to get a 2016 Kia Forte Ex steer clear. The transmission is very hesitant, especially on the freeway. The car rattled until on the fourth repair attempt they finally fixed the issue. The car is a nightmare for anyone who has an interest in cars. The engine makes pretty good power but it does not start to really get moving until around 5000 RPM. The transmission is always in the wrong gear. Eco mode just means the throttle will not respond almost at all. When cornering the traction control system tries to intervene and does a horrible job at that (even when the system is turned off it still tries to work.) The brakes overheat and fade pretty quickly in a stop and go higher speed situations. The drivers seat is extremely uncomfortable and lacks support. The plastics look cheap and feel the same way. I have had two bad tires because the stock tires went bad when in both cases a small rock on the road hit the sidewall of the tires. I am very upset and honestly will never own another car from Kia. I would suggest anyone to look at other upscale CPO cars instead of this one. I am not going to bother trying to fix anymore of these issue because at the end of the day it is not worth wasting my time. I honestly have stopped caring about my car. I used to wax it and wash it all the time but with all the problems I have had it doesnt seem like it is worth the care I would normally give to a car.

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  Upgraded my 2011 Hatch to the 2014 Forte5 - 2014 Kia Forte
  By rabear - January 13 - 5:26 am

  Recently I decided to trade in my 2011 Forte EX hatchback on a 2014 Forte5. I got every conceivable option one can get. Wow, is all I can say. I loved our 2011 but this 2014 blows it away. Aside from having a lot more bells and whistles it is quieter, rides better and most significantly gets better gas mileage with same 2.0 engine. I am not talking about a modest increase but a big increase. I have run 7 tankfuls through it and my low was 30.1 and the high was 44.7 which was measured the old fashioned way, not by the computer.

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  I absolutely LOVE this car! - 2011 Kia Forte
  By ch3ri72 - January 13 - 2:14 am

  My husband I just bought this car a week ago and it has been the best decision we have made in a long time. The dealer we use has also helped with making it a great experience, but the car sold itself. Even tho it was used, you would never know. The handling, dependability, and overall car is great.

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  2016 Forte - 2016 Kia Forte
  By Carolyn - January 3 - 4:25 am

  Put on comfortable shoes, take your umbrella, and take your time and enjoy your shopping.

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  Excellent so far at 8500 miles - 2010 Kia Forte
  By wam927 - December 21 - 10:05 pm

  I have the 2010 Forte EX sedan with the Fuel Economy package and could not be happier. This is actually a car for my daughter to drive, so the safety features were an important consideration. We drove the car from Washington state to the gulf coast and averaged 35.2 mpg, including climbing over the Rocky Mountains, driving generally the speed limit (up to 75 mph). While the transmission hunted for gears somewhat with the cruise control in the mountains, the car performed flawlessly. The 5-speed auto. transmission is highly recommended. The 2011s 6-speed would be a welcome step up. The paint quality leaves a little to be desired, but overall the exterior seems to be reasonably good.

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  Good Not Excellent Car - 2016 Kia Forte
  By Leland Lesher - December 2 - 12:44 pm

  The 6 speed manual transmission is geared MUCH too close together. In town I shift from 1st to 3rd to 5th and run in 5th from 30-45 MPH. They could do without 2nd and 4th gears and raise the ratio of 6th and make a nice 4 speed transmission. Might be great in Korea or other countries where one never drives above 55 MPH. I would hate this car in Germany because I would be maxing out engine RPMs in 6th gear on the Autobahn. 6th gear should have the engine running about 2,000 RPMs at 70 MPH which would make the fuel economy excellent instead of just good. Interior is NOISY, even without my hearing aids. I dont know if it is the NEXEN stock tires or just the engine noise. I will know better after I change out the tires to Good Years or some other US manufactured "quiet" tire.

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  Great new compact challenger - 2010 Kia Forte
  By buck1nut - November 26 - 7:30 am

  After much research and test driving I decided to go with the Kia Forte EX. For what I paid I could not even touch anything from the competition. It certainly didnt hurt that it was the best looking and had the most standard HP of anything I compared. It has a very smooth ride for a compact car and plenty of pep to boot. This car is certainly worth a look for those considering Honda, Toyota, etc. However, after looking at this car you may not look back!

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  From Suzuki to KIA great move - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Mark - November 8 - 12:43 pm

  I got the EX with the sunroof and the alloy wheels. This car has truly surprised me the way it drives and handles is excellent. I have only had it about a month but have already taken it on to lengthy road trips and it was very comfortable and easy to drive. The satellite radio and bluetooth are awesome too. The stereo in this car rocks!! I traded in a Suzuku SX4 that rode terrible when I got in this car and drove it I felt like I was in a cadillac but for a much cheaper price. I would highly recommend buying the KIA and the warranty cant be beat. I am very happy that I purchased this car. It looks great and is fun to drive. I look forward to driving it every time I get it in it.