The 2010 Kia Forte ranks 4 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 22 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Forte, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The automotive press is heaping praise on the trendy and feature-laden 2010 Kia Forte. While the Forte's predecessor, the Spectra, was a disappointment to most reviewers, the all-new Forte delivers on style, performance and available features.
The Forte is a class leader in cargo space with its 14.7 cubic feet of cargo volume that has reviewers very excited, but the trunk isn't the only great feature that the Forte has. Features like Bluetooth, SIRIUS satellite radio, USB ports, auxiliary input jacks and even iPod connectivity, which aren't even offered in some of the Forte's competitors, come standard in the Forte.
One of the strongest selling points for the Forte is the price. The Forte LX-the most basic model-starts at just over $13,500 and the LX (which has more features like air conditioning and adjustable head rests) at just under $14,500. That is a serious bargain in comparison to its competitors, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, both of which start off at a base price of over $16,000.
The Forte hasn't been on the market long enough to compete for many awards, but it was NADAguide's "Car of the Month" in August.
Like many small cars, the Forte's weaknesses are its accelerating abilities and rear seat -- both get mixed reviews. The car doesn't accelerate as well as some would like but most agree that it was designed more as a commuter car than a joy-riding machine. The Forte's backseat is also a bit tight so despite the fact that the Forte is advertised as a five-seater, most reviewers say only four will be comfortable.
If you're looking for an affordable small car with excellent gas mileage, a stylish look and an engine that will get the job done, the Kia Forte is well worth a look. That said, if you are looking for something that is a little more fun to drive, you might also want to check out the Mazda3 or the Volkswagen Rabbit. Neither is as fuel efficient as the Forte, but both boast trims with more powerful engines.
The Kia Forte comes as either a sedan or a coupe. The sedan comes in three trims. The standard LX model and the more advanced EX and SX models. The Kia Forte also comes as the XK coupe (which Kia calls the Koup).
