2010 Kia Forte Sedan

The Forte is Kia’s all-new model for 2010, replacing the Spectra. The Forte is a compact car, available as a sedan or coupé, and competes with the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and the Mazda 3. Kia cites the Forte’s competitive price and fuel economy as its main selling points.

The 2010 Kia Forte is available as a sedan in three trim levels: LX, EX and SX. As a coupé (or Koup, to use Kia’s term), it’s offered only in the EX and SX trims. Standard on the LX trim are 15-inch wheels, 4-speaker sound system, and Bluetooth connectivity. The EX trim includes air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, and upgraded rear seats. The 2-door version of the Forte EX features 16-inch wheels and firmer suspension. The SX trim also features a sport-tuned suspension, plus a larger engine, 17-inch wheels, upgraded steering wheel and gauge cluster, trip computer, and a more upscale interior. The SX Koup has an even stiffer suspension. Options at various trim levels include a sunroof and heated front seats.

Forte LX and EX trims are equipped with a 156-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. According to EPA estimates, the Kia Forte delivers 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. An optional Fuel Economy package includes a 5-speed automatic transmission and raises the EPA’s estimates to 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Forte SX features a 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The EPA says it delivers a combined 26 mpg.

The 2010 Kia Forte’s standard safety features include anti-lock disc brakes, brake assist, stability control, front side air bags, side curtain air bags, and active front head restraints.

Starting MSRP for the 2010 Kia Forte was $14,695.

For more information:

• Watch the 2010 Kia Forte Video
• Read the 2010 Kia Forte Preview
• See 2010 Kia Forte Pictures
• Browse Other Kia Models