2018 Kia Forte

Apr 14, 2024, 2:36pm ET

Since arriving on U.S. shores back in 1991, Kia has rapidly evolved from a purveyor of bargain-basement econoboxes into a stylish and fully modern brand that can compete with the best the mainstream market has to offer. Perhaps no model is as emblematic of Kia's progress as the latest Forte, a compact sedan that combines the value for which the automaker has become known with an attention-grabbing exterior design and a high-quality cabin.

Overview

The Forte sports some of the most expressive sheetmetal in the compact segment thanks to a rising beltline, a steeply-raked windshield and dynamic cab-forward proportions. Checkmark-shaped character lines and a shapely rendition of Kia's "Tiger Nose" corporate grille add a bit of tasteful garnish to the sedan's form, and swept-back headlights with optional LED strips complete the look.

Things are slightly more polarizing inside, with an asymmetrical design highlighted by "ripple effect" dashboard detailing that Kia says is intended to evoke wavelets radiating from a pebble dropped into a pond. Quirky details aside, material quality is more than respectable and the control layout is largely intuitive. There's class-leading legroom up front, and the outboard rear seats are roomy enough to hold average-sized adults.

The list of standard equipment is comprehensive, including power everything, Bluetooth and more, and upscale options like a ventilated driver's seat and a heated steering wheel add a premium feel.

The Forte offers Kia's new-generation UVO eServices infotainment system, which provides Bluetooth-based smartphone integration, streaming audio and voice command functionality for everything from placing calls to changing radio stations. It also includes vehicle diagnostics info and maintenance reminders, and lets users send Point of Interest info from Google Maps searches on their smartphone to the Forte's nav system, which itself offers access to Google Maps and Google Places.

Powertrains and handling

The Forte offers buyers a choice of two engines and two different gearboxes.

The base model gets a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. It shifts through a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is the only configuration offered.

The optional engine is a different 2.0-liter with 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque on tap. It's only offered with the six-speed automatic.

The sedan's suspension is comprised of MacPherson struts up front, a torsion-beam at the rear and coil springs all around - essentially the norm for the segment. An optional "Flex Steer" system allows the driver to vary steering effort between three different settings at the touch of a steering wheel-mounted button. Handling is safe and predictable, but not exactly sporty or engaging - those seeking a fun drive should probably look elsewhere.

Standard and optional features

The Forte sedan is offered in LX, S, and EX trim levels.

The LX comes standard with power doors and locks, A/C, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX and USB inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a trip computer, an outside temperature display, power-adjustable heated mirrors and 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps.

Optional on the LX is a Popular Equipment package adds cruise control, keyless entry and a sliding front armrest.

Standalone options include 16-inch alloy wheels, UVO and a rear-view camera.

The S brings sporty-looking add-ons like gloss black trim, a sport-tuned suspension, and model-specific alloy wheels.

The EX includes two extra speakers for the sound system, cruise control, fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, remote keyless entry, a sliding center armrest, a cooling glove box and 16-inch alloy wheels.

An available Premium Package for the EX brings heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with air-cooled ventilation, leather seat trim, power sunroof, push button start with Smart Key and a heated steering wheel.

Also optional on the EX is the Technology Package, which adds navigation, HID headlights, LED tail lights and dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear seat ventilation.

A navigation system is available as a stand-alone option on EX models.

Occupant Safety

All Forte models come standard with dual front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to stability and traction control systems and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Key Competitors

The Forte competes in a segment full of highly accomplished rides. If Kia's subcompact sedan isn't quite to your tastes, or if cross-shopping is task at hand, consider the Ford Focus and its European-flavored handling and interior, the sporty and fuel-efficient Mazda Mazda3 and the refined Chevrolet Cruze.