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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  Forte sx 6 spd - 2010 Kia Forte
  By John - June 28 - 7:03 am

  To now, put 150 miles on the car. Really fun to drive after i got the hang of the really touchy clutch. I have drove manual cars forever, this one is really hard to adjust too. But, once done really fun to drive. Interior is very nice in the sx, my only complaint is the seat adjustment is a little weird. Im 62", so seat adjustability is crucial. Overall, great car. Awesome buy for the $$. Had a civic prior to this car, this is hands down a better car in general. 10 yr warr is great too. Only complaint is fuel mileage. I work 2 miles from home and average 24 mpg. But, the fun factor of the 2.4 L 6 spd is worth it.

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  Kia Forte SX - 2011 Kia Forte
  By rgebbia - June 20 - 3:39 pm

  Have had this car since July. Have 7300 miles. Car is loaded with Nav, sunroof, leather, Sirius radio, rear camera, etc...Its comfortable inside, good drive on the highway, handling isnt bad but the Jetta I also tested didnt handle any better surprisingly. It has great acceleration for a 4-cylinder, non-turbo and the 2.5 engine is what makes the difference. My only complaints so far are the suspension and the gas mileage. I do mostly highway driving and am only getting 26 - 28 mpg. Also, I feel every bump, big or small in this car. Great value for the money and will be a good car to hand down to the kids but not sure I would purchase another.

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  So many standard options for a compact - 2010 Kia Forte
  By Mark - June 18 - 4:20 pm

  2010 Kia Forte SX - We were lucky enough to get the SX with all the options including the leather. This car is amazing. With times a little tougher my wife sold her 2003 Bmw M3 Convertible. We both love the car and the heated leather seats made the transition to this new car great. We drove 500+ miles to pick it up and it was fun to drive home after the purchase. It is almost unbelievable how this car has so many standard options on the base model. With the sirus radio and bluetooth radio it makes it even easier and very fun to drive. The car handles very well at 80 and seems to stop very good. The ride is smooth until you hit small pot holes, then the car feels a little ridged.

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  Nice Tweener Car - 2012 Kia Forte
  By brianth - April 15 - 8:23 pm

  The five-door SX lives between base-level economy hatches and higher performance (and higher cost) cars like the GTI, WRX, and Mazdaspeed3. You will likely not see many of these, probably because the Soul gets most of the attention in Kias sub-Sportage slot, but we use ours as an urban family car, and for that purpose it is an excellent value--ample interior room and good cargo space with the rear seats in use, nice standard features and reasonable options, and classy "European" styling. Given the pricing available on this Kia, particularly in relation to newer-model used cars these days, we are still very happy with our choice.

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  Economical Car - 2013 Kia Forte
  By smrast - April 9 - 4:45 am

  I needed a car that got good gas and good value. I commute 160 miles a day (20 miles dirt road). Getting 31 MPG on average. This is my 4th Kia and one of the reasons of staying with them is the 100,000 warr. & all the options that are included with them. We drive our cars till they fall apart so the resale value means nothing.

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  I love my Forte! - 2010 Kia Forte
  By New 2 Kia - April 3 - 10:23 am

  I made the switch from a truck with terrible fuel economy to this vehicle - I am getting more than twice as many miles per gallon! I really do love my Forte. One of the great things is all the features that come standard with every model. I have only had it for a few weeks but so far so good! I would suggest to anyone considering the LX to think about getting the EX. The baseline EX is not much more expensive and I think the power windows and locks is a great feature. Hassle those dealers!

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  Great Car for the money.... - 2010 Kia Forte
  By lisa - March 24 - 2:30 pm

  I just purchased my 2010 Kia Forte SX 4 door...i love this car! It looks good from the outside and drives great!! I thought because of the 4 cylinder....no power but this car really can kick into some speed! The gas use has been great and it really gets some mileage to the gallons. If you are looking for a great looking car, great price then the Kia Forte is it. Im very happy with my purchase and never thought I would say that about a KIA...no doubt KIA has done a great job with this new vehicle.

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  Great bargain - 2010 Kia Forte
  By dankocke - March 23 - 1:07 am

  For the price (with rebates) this is hands down the best car in its category. For the price that is... not for what it is. While it has all sorts of wonderful features like bluetooth, satellite, etc., it does not have the same feel of a VW, Toyota, or Honda. That said, the fuel economy is not as good either. Ive filled it up 3 times now and in cold weather in mixed driving Ive averaged 27mpg. I use to get that in my Acura TSX. The Forte is a very nice car, though. It feels solid, is very quiet, and has a huge trunk. I have the coffee interior which is fantastic looking. I wish Kia would drop the 2.4l into the EX as the suspension on the SX is too stiff.

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  Top of the class - 2011 Kia Forte
  By bitwize01 - March 17 - 9:25 pm

  I purchased a Kia Forte SX Coupe 2 months back for about 16k. It had 6,000 miles on it and was is great shape. Now that the honeymoon is over Im still very pleased with my purchase. My Kia is definitely turning heads in the parking lot, something that doesnt often happen with a car < 20k. Besides the attractive styling, the comfortable interior with leather and power sunroof (optional) make it a very comfortable daily driver. Further, when youre feeling more engaged, the stiff suspension and ample horsepower make it a blast to drive. Compared to other "economy sport" cars like the Civic or Mazda3, I feel the Forte Koup SX is far and away the best "fun to dollars" ratio.

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  Best car Ive owned - 2014 Kia Forte
  By R. Collis - March 12 - 6:44 pm