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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  Great Car, But Drinks Gas - 2013 Kia Forte
  By tekwrek - March 17 - 8:01 am

  We are pleased with all of the features except the mileage. Based on Kias specs and Edmunds city/highway mileage calculator we expected mileage of 30 to 32 mpg. (The specs said 34+, but you never get that mileage.) However, we are averaging 26-27 mpg for primarily highway driving. Kia should have included the Forte in its fuel economy rating correction program and should have included Forte owners in its Vehicle Owners Compensation program. We have written to the company and EPA about the omission.

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  Will stay with KIA!!! - 2011 Kia Forte
  By Ernesto - February 26 - 1:41 am

  Im just a normal working guy! Got my wife a used 2010 TOYOTA COROLLA S - But we love and enjoy my 2011 KIA FORTE! Nice features and very economic! I used to have a 2006 Kia Spectra 5 - Never had an issue!

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  Give Kia a go - 2010 Kia Forte
  By truth1107 - January 29 - 3:41 pm

  Any negative impressions I had previously about Kia have changed dramatically. I bought a 2010 Forte Koup recently and have enjoyed it more and more every day. Exterior styling is best in class. Great features like Bluetooth, satellite radio, ipod inputs. Car is very smooth especially at high speeds on the interstate. Drove the civic, the corolla, and found the kia to be more stylish. The Forte Koup could use a little more pep on the lower end and sometimes there are severe downshifts with the automatic transmission when you gas it hard. Feels great seeing the ECO light come on when cruising at 75mph.

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  character in a car - 2010 Kia Forte
  By dave - January 10 - 7:43 pm

  I traded in a mazda6 which was good but just boring.Ive had the car for 4 weeks. The new Forte has character. Its a fun car to drive. It has plenty of room, a large trunk, plenty of back seat room.It handles great and with the 2.4 engine has more accelaration then the old mazda6 with a 3.0.The satellite radio and easy MP3 hook up is great.It evens comes with bluetooth which I didnt care about but makes driving safer.It has most options standard on the SX.The new mazda 3 may have a nicer interior(ugly grill) but I would rather have the extra money in my pocket.Once you get used to the delayed throttle its a blast to drive.Nothing in its class has as much power or is as much fun to drive.

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  Great car for a great price! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By littleashley - January 6 - 4:35 pm

  My husband and I owned this car for a year, and I loved it! We put 20k miles on it with no problems, and the gas mileage was great.. We made it from San Diego to Phoenix with one tank. The body style is classy, not like the older kias. The interior also looks extremely nice with leather, and I liked the digital radio and the way it worked with sirius. The car was also fun to drive.. Its only a 4 cyl, so it doesnt have a lot of pick up, but it handles really well. We had to trade in our car because it was difficult getting the car seat in and out of the back, but thats the only reason!

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  Excellent Car... - 2010 Kia Forte
  By jmp2010 - January 3 - 2:46 am

  I traded a 1997 Ram 4wd i have had for 6 years for this car. Obviously the gas mileage was the problem with my truck. Over the course of 3 days i drove a total of 27 different vehicles. I came to my kia dealership with the sole intention of a used car. My salesman gave me the keys to a new 2011 Forte Ex and said drive it like you stole it lol. I was so impressed with the car i signed papers 30 minutes later. My car was slightly used as a low mileage lease to the Kia manufacturing plant a few miles from my home. Its primary function was a carpool car. It was perfectly maintained and had 3400 miles on it. It now has a little over 29000 on it and not even the slightest hint of a problem.

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  Great car for the money - 2010 Kia Forte
  By MarkPaterson - December 12 - 5:36 pm

  Have had my Forte for 5 months so far. Still very pleased with it. Excellent ride and mileage, very good quality. I have the EX with the fuel economy package (5sp A/T).

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  Love her when shes not being serviced - 2014 Kia Forte
  By Corey - December 1 - 4:16 pm

  Has been to dealer for several minor repairs. At 44k miles started having over heating issues. Cooling fan stopped working. Been at dealer a week. Not a major repair and the dealer is being very helpful but concerning that it needs these repairs at 44k miles!

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  Fast car, Racing Red, shifter paddles, fast - 2011 Kia Forte
  By Ed Szostak - November 9 - 2:04 am

  Super fast for 2.4L non turbo, shifting paddles, smooth transmission shifts, leather with red stitch accents, music lights up speakers, carpet, new mats (covered with Weather Tech) no snow, no rain car, polished, chrome exhaust tips (2) all black plastic is like new, no events, perfect paint, headlights could be brighter (no Phillip bulb replacements, will burn through plastic, running with fog lamps on solves path lighting) Auto transmission great for new drivers. This is a perfect high school car. mine is a 2011, the Audi A4 look alike with sports wing on trunk. This model had to be discontinued due to Audi (Designer came from Audi to Kia and took too many great Audi styling hints) This makes this 2 door very special, no other model looks like it, has the Audi Grill, wind skirt, mud flaps, locking Hubs to protect the smoke gray custom wheels only offered on the 2011.

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  Great car for an even greater price! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By gnatmarie - October 19 - 3:43 pm

  I have had this car for 7 months now and I am thoroughly impressed. I am coming from a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta so the fact that I never have to take my Kia Forte into the dealership for a check engine light every month is a very nice perk. My Forte hasnt had any problems yet. Ive had the oil changed once (I love that it only needs to be changed every 7,500 miles) and I will be getting a second oil change soon enough. The inside of my Forte is really classy. I love the materials used for the interior. I especially love the type of paint they use for the interior trim. It doesnt chip and peel. Then again, I make sure I never use any kind of harmful cleaner on it.