What’s new for 2016

The Kia Forte undergoes a number of small but welcome changes for the 2016 model year, with the most notable being revisions to its standard and optional features. Also of note is the addition of the base LX trim to the Forte hatchback lineup.

Climbing the Ranks 

Shopping for a car on a budget isn’t always the most exciting process. Often what you want is just out of reach, and the choices you have can feel pretty limited. That’s not the case with the 2016 Kia Forte. The Forte happily thumbs its nose at the establishment by offering a slew of body styles (sedan, hatchback, and coupe), a ton of great features, and all an attractive starting price.

The Forte may not have the history (yet) of some of the more established brands like Honda, Toyota, and Ford, but it has rapidly grown in popularity since its debut in 2010 and it’s not hard to see why.

Let’s explore a little deeper and learn why the 2016 Kia Forte is deserving of your hard-earned money.  

Powertrains and Performance

The 2015 Kia Forte is available with three engine types depending on what trim and body style you opt for. Sedan models come in LX and EX trims and get access to a 1.8-liter four-cylinder (LX) or a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder (EX).

Both engines  are incredibly capable, with the 1.8-liter generating 145 horsepower and 130 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile the 2.0-liter is perfect for buyers looking for a little more oomph, and bumps total engine output to 173 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque.

The two-door Forte Koupe is offered in EX and sportier SX trims, while the four-door hatchback (Forte5) comes in LX, EX, and SX trims. However, SX versions of the Forte Koup and Forte5 get exclusive access to a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder, which is good for 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.

All Forte models regardless of body style are front-wheel drive, however buyers can choose between manual or automatic transmissions. LX models can be had with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. EX sedan models are restricted to the automatic, while the EX Koup has access to a six-speed manual. Finally, SX versions of the Forte Koup and Forte5 have access to the manual or automatic regardless of body style.

While luxury cars rely on interior features to attract buyers, and trucks seek to serve up beastly amounts of power and torque to woo potential owners, compact cars are tasked with appealing to people’s wallets when it comes to fuel economy. LX sedan models are perhaps the most impressive in this regard, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined (26 city/39 highway) when mated to the six-speed automatic.* But regardless of body style or transmission, the Forte provides the type of miserly fuel economy that is sure to leave owners smiling.

Features and Trims

The 2016 Kia Forte starts at $15,990** and comes in sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles. Sedan models are available in LX and EX trims, Koupe models come in EX and SX trims, and Forte 5 models are available in LX, EX and SX trims.

Despites its position at the base of the Forte lineup, LX models come with a wide array of standard features. Highlights include 15-inch wheels, heated mirrors, and an ultra-convenient 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Of course, what modern car would be seen dead without Bluetooth®? Not the Forte! It also comes with a standard four-speaker sound system, complete with CD player, satellite radio, and USB/iPod® connectivity.

EX models build off the LX’s robust features list by adding such goodies as keyless entry, cruise control, two additional speakers, and upgraded seat trim, along with other interior enhancements like a sliding console armrest and extra storage. Additionally, the EX replaces the LX’s 15-inch wheels for larger 16-inch versions and add LED running lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more.

But it’s not all about the sedan. Hatchback and Coupe models get the same great features as their sedan counterpart. Meanwhile, SX models crank up the sportiness with 18-inch wheels and unique front and rear styling.

While not standard, the Forte is available with Kia’s groundbreaking UVO eServices infotainment system, which allows drivers to manage music, place hands-free calls, and much, much more. There is even Google Maps™ support that can sends locations to your car via the eServices phone app.

Likewise, the Forte can be customized further with a number of packages and standard equipment. So whether its upgraded leather upholstery or a heated steering wheel, the 2016 Forte has your covered.

Design

Kia has staked its reputation on adrenaline-filled designs but the 2016 Forte dials it back a little with a more conservative approach. That’s not to say the Forte is boring by an stretch – far from it – just that the design isn’t as in-your-face as some of the other compact offerings, which in our humble opinion makes it that much more appealing.

The addition of LED accents in the headlights and available LED taillights do wonders for the Forte’s overall style and make it easily one of the more sophisticated looking cars in the segment. The Forte Koup and Forte5 add even more style to the lineup, especially when taking into account SX model’s unique flourishes and sporty 18-inch wheels. And did we mention those power-folding exterior mirrors? Talk about punching above your weight class!

Inside, the 2016 Kia Forte is equally pleasing with a plush and well-designed cabin that screams style while cradling occupants in comfort. The 2015 Forte makes excellent use of materials , especially in higher trims, which encroaches on genuine premium quality. Instrumentation is also logical and user-friendly, especially when it comes to the intuitive touchscreen interface and large button layout of the Forte’s UVO infotainment system.

And while the compact segment isn’t traditionally known for providing vaults of cargo space, the Forte, in all its guises, breaks the mold by providing 14.9 cubic feet of trunk space for sedan models and voluminous 23.2 cubic feet for hatchbacks.

Safety

Complementing the Forte’s style is a standard suite of safety features that includes antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags. The Forte also comes with an available rearview camera and UVO telematics service, which includes roadside assistance, emergency crash notification and secondary driver (i.e., teenage) monitoring features including notifications for exceeding curfew, vehicle speed, and vehicle location limits.

Bottom Line

With three different body styles to choose from, a smart yet engaging exterior, and exceptional fuel-economy, the 2016 Kia Forte has a lot to offer drivers looking for fun and refinement. Throw in a noteworthy  amount of cargo space and some impressive teach features (we’re looking at you, UVO) and it’s clear the Forte is one compelling compact sedan, hatch, or coupe.

For more information or to schedule a test drive, be sure to contact or stop by 3Birds Template today.

* Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition.

** "Starting at" price is manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest model trim. MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Vehicles shown with optional equipment.

Image: Kia Motors America (Models show with optional equipment)