2015 Kia Forte

Pros: Well-designed infotainment features; decent ride and handling balance; Koup offers a true 2-door coupe body style that is rare for the class; Forte5 delivers enhanced cargo versatility with a unique sporty character

Cons: Headroom is stingy on Forte Koup; middling acceleration in non-SX models; some desirable options are available only in expensive packages

CG Says: After its redesign for 2014, Kia’s compact-car lineup sees no significant changes for 2015, save for improved EPA fuel-economy estimates for the sedan’s base 4-cylinder engine with automatic transmission. The Forte features excellent passenger and cargo accommodations and plenty of features for the money—including some rare-for-the-class options such as a heated steering wheel, ventilated driver’s seat, and heated rear seats. The availability of a coupe (called Koup) and 4-door hatchback (called Forte5) body styles provide additional choice too. The Koup and Forte5 offer different, more-powerful standard engines and a sporty trim level that is not available on the sedan. Regardless of body style, the 2015 Forte lineup is competitive with most rivals for refinement, ride/handling balance, and interior quality, while still outpointing some competitors for features-per-dollar value. The sedan-only LX trim level is attractively priced and comes with most everything you need. Still, we suspect most buyers will opt for the EX despite its $2,000 price premium, if only to access available features like a sunroof, leather trim, heated seats, and the UVO eServices info/assistance app. SX trim adds a sportier vibe, but it’s restricted to Koups and Forte5s. But LX, EX, or SX, the Forte rates as a solid, practical compact car that’s certainly compelling, enhanced by Kia’s long warranty.

Links

Test Drive: 2014 Kia Forte Koup SX

2014 Kia Forte Review

2016 Kia Forte Review