2016 Kia Forte Sedan

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: The Kia Forte hatchback gains an entry-level LX model for 2016. Previously, only Forte sedan offered LX trim. LX models now have standard remote keyless entry, while EX versions gain a standard rearview camera. 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 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 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 hefty 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.

The Facts
Class Compact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan, 4-door hatchback, 2-door coupe
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Kia
Nation of Manufacture South Korea
Base Prices LX sedan: $15,990
LX hatchback: $18,090
EX sedan: $19,990
EX Koup: $19,890
EX hatchback: $20,390
SX Koup: $20,690
SX hatchback: $20,990

Base Engine
1.8-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
145
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
25-26
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
37-39

Optional Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
173
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
6-speed manual (Koup only)
EPA City Range (mpg)
24-25
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
33-35

Optional Engine
turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
201
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
21-22
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
29-30

2014 Kia Forte Koup
2016 Kia Forte Koup
2014 Kia Forte 5
2016 Kia Forte5
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