I was lucky and thankful to have the Kia Forte EX for a week to review. All opinions are 100% my own. I was not compensated for this post.
What’s not to like about driving a Kia Forte EX, 2014 model in Abyss Blue? I was so excited to test drive another Kia and compare it to some of the other Kia Models. My first impression was wow! I knew I was getting a sedan, but I didn’t expect it to be so sporty!
As a mom, and woman, I really care about my comfort and my children’s comfort in the car. The amount of horsepower, engine size, and other mechanical marvels are not too high on my must-have list in a new car. The Kia Forte has LOADS of comfort and safety features that I wasn’t expecting!
Forte Features:
- Dual Body-Color Heated Power Mirrors
- Mirror-Mounted LED Turn Signal Indicators
- Power Folding Outside Mirrors
- Power Sunroof
- Solar Control Glass
- Auto Light Control
- Projector Beam headlights
- Front Fog Lights
- Perimeter Approach Lighting
- Illuminated Door Handle Pockets
- Heated Rear glass with timer
- Locking Fuel-Filler Door
Premium Features:
“Offered in LX and EX trim levels, the all-new Forte proudly carries on Kia’s reputation for offering premium features that redefine automotive segments. The LX model comes standard with steering wheel-mounted audio controls, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® wireless technology, power windows, air conditioning and power heated outside mirrors among the many features that make the Forte stand out from its competition. The optional Popular Package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry with remote trunk release and a sliding front armrest.
Stepping up to the EX trim broadens Forte’s appeal with additional comfort and convenience features. Kia’s next-generation Google-powered UVO in-vehicle infotainment system with eServices is standard and can now be integrated with an optional navigation system. Additional standard EX features include remote keyless entry with trunk opener, rear camera back-up display, a sliding center armrest and a cooling glove box. The new optional FlexSteer™ system allows the driver to choose between three distinct steering profiles: Comfort, Normal and Sport. Features found in the optional Premium Package include heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with class-exclusive air-cooled ventilation, leather seat trim, power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and push button start with Smart Key and a heated steering wheel. Opting for the Technology Package adds HID headlights, LED tail lights, a 4.2-inch color LCD cluster screen and dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear seat ventilation.”
Performance:
“The all-new Forte offers spirited performance thanks to two advanced four-cylinder engines. The LX features a 1.8-liter powerplant, while the EX comes standard with a 2.0-liter engine. Both engines feature dual continuously variable valve timing and a lightweight intake manifold that reduces weight by 30 percent over a cast unit. The aluminum “bed plate” located below the cylinder block reduces engine NVH levels and improves block rigidity by 30 percent.
With 148 horsepower available at 6,500 rpm and 131 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 4,700 rpm, the 1.8-liter MPI inline four-cylinder engine found in the LX routes power to the front wheels through either a standard six speed manual transmission or an optional six speed automatic gearbox.
Forte EX enhances the driving experience with a 173-horsepower (at 6,500 rpm) 2.0-liter inline four cylinder GDI engine. With a robust 154 lb.-ft. of torque available at 4,700 rpm, the EX comes standard with a six speed automatic. ”
My favorite features:
I can never get enough of heated seats! I LOVE that the Forte has cooling seat option too! In the 2 weeks of summer that we get, I might use it. My husband, on the other hand, would love to use the seat cooler 6 months out of the year. Speaking of my hubby, we LOVE the dual temperature zones! He can have the A/C on all year if his heart desires. I can have my heater going at the temperature I want. Gotta love a car that doesn’t just compromise on situations, it comes up with solutions.
The Back-Up Camera is a function that I never really thought I would use until I had it. Now when I back out of my spot a work, I still want to look for the green positional lines on my dashboard.
The Keyless entry is a great feature for moms who can never find their keys in the bottom of their purse. You don’t need to find them anymore, as long as their are close by, you can get into the car and start it without ever putting a key into a lock! I have to admit, it’s a close second as my favorite feature. The heated seats still win out, especially in below zero weather in New England.
One new feature that would be handy in the summer is the cooled glove box. When the temperatures soar inside your car in the heat of the summer sun, you can put a bottle of water, sippy cups or bottles in the glove box and they will stay cool! I imagine if I put a water bottle in there in the winter, it probably wouldn’t freeze. I may have to test drive another Kia to find out!
Did I mention that the Forte has a heated steering wheel? As I pull out of the parking garage from work every day, I so wish my VW had that option.
The Kia Forte has ample trunk space for groceries and bags and more bags from your favorite department store. As you can see, it fits my 11 year old son and 60 pound Border Collie. Please note: this picture is only to demonstrate the ample trunk space. I do NOT ever put my child or pets into the trunk and close it. This picture is for demonstration purposes only. Some like to do the “golf club test” for the trunk, I use the dog and kid test.
My son’s favorite features are the Sunroof and Sirius Satellite radio. He also loved to plan trips on the navigation system.
Things I would change:
As you can see from the picture below, I got a flat tire. It was a nail in the sidewall. Kia does not have spare tires, they have tire repair kits and Kia Roadside assistance. I never knew that until I had a flat. I called AAA because it was cold and rainy and I couldn’t find the number to Kia Roadside assistance. AAA plugged the tire and was kind enough to follow me home.
It makes sense in the fact that a spare tire equals more weight which would make the gas mileage to be less efficient. Just be sure you are prepared to fix the tire with the repair kit and/or keep Kia Roadside assistance contact information in your glove box.
Overall, Mom Does Reviews and family enjoyed the Forte’s smooth ride, newest and fun technology features, the heated seats and backup camera! Even the back seat was comfy! We give the Kia Forte 2014 TWO big thumbs up!
The Kia Forte 2014 is $15K starting MSRP. The one we drove was $24K as it was loaded with all the fun features.