2010 Kia Forte Delivers Best Value in its Class
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Kia has a winner on its hand with the all-new 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan. As a replacement to the uninspiring and chintzy Kia Spectra, the South Korean auto manufacturer finally brings a sedan to market worth mentioning in the same breath as such long-time class favorites as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
In fact, in many ways the Kia Forte is a better all-around car than these old stalwarts of the small sedan category - especially when looking at long-term value.
From the stylish exterior and hefty list of standard features all the way down to the impeccable safety package, the Kia Forte adds up to a vehicle that should cost much more than the $13,695 base asking price.
For that price you'll be rewarded with such upscale standard amenities as Bluetooth, iPod connectivity and satellite radio. If you so choose, you can also upgrade to such optional equipment as swanky interior leather upholstery with seat warmers. Whichever Forte package you choose, however, you'll likely find more than adequate comfort in the front seats - good cushioning and a roomy layout help make this a comfortable car to live in.
For added benefit, the Forte also comes with one of the largest trunks in the compact class. With 14.7 cubic feet of space, you'll have plenty of room to stow groceries and other cargo.
The dealership isn't the only place you'll save with the 2010 Kia Forte, either. The spirited Kia compact earns a combined 30 mpg (27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway), meaning that you'll be zipping around town with minimal stops at the gas station.
Thankfully, this fuel efficiency doesn't come at the expense of vehicle performance. While other vehicles in the class certainly offer a more sport-inspired drive, the base 156-horsepower 2.0-liter engine should be more than adequate for the average family commuter. For a little more oomph, a 2.4-liter engine that outputs 173 horsepower is also available.
Are a low price tag and good gas mileage not enough for you? Then you're in luck, because the Kia Forte also comes with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty - a fact that could save you considerably on future vehicle repairs. A five-year/60,000 mile limited basic warranty also provides longer coverage than most of Kia's competitors.
Like comfort and convenience features, the Kia Forte also comes standard with more safety features than most competitors. To get a competing vehicle that offers six air bags, antilock brakes, stability control, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution you'd have to pay several thousand more dollars than the Forte's asking price.
Put it all together, and it's clear that the Kia Forte is a value-leader in the compact class. If you're looking for an affordable vehicle that delivers big on amenities and cargo space, then the Kia Forte should be on your short list.
Places where the Forte doesn't do so well is vehicle noise and cramped rear seating. At highway speeds, you'll likely have to turn up the volume on that satellite radio to drown out road noise. The rear seats are designed to accommodate up to three, but like most compact cars the idea works better in theory than in reality.
For added comfort in the rear, the Hyundai Elantra may better accommodate some drivers. The Elantra also benefits from a low price tag, 10-year warranty and exceptional reliability.
Some drivers may also be disappointed by the Forte's acceleration. If you're looking for a more spirited drive, look into the 2010 Mazda MAZDA3. Other competitors worth investigating include the more affordable Suzuki SX4 and more fuel-efficient 2010 Honda Civic.