The larger 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine that's standard on the top SX trim has enough horsepower and torque to put it ahead of a segment heavyweight like the Mazda3. The Forte certainly has little problem in passing manouevres, though mated to the optional five-speed automatic transmission, the car never feels particularly sporty. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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The Forte is best left in fully automatic mode, as the vehicle is fully capable of handling its own shift changes just fine, thank you. For improved fuel economy, skip the auto altogether (and save yourself some money) and stick with the standard six-speed manual. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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One thing that sticks out about the Forte is how solid it feels. Doors close with a solid “thud,” door handles are anything but flimsy and buttons and switches inside don't feel cheap. It's nice to see smaller touches like the red stitching on the steering wheel, which isn't available on the lower two trim levels but comes standard on the SX. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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Overall the Forte is longer and wider than the Spectra it replaces, yet a few of its interior dimensions fall short of the Spectra's. That said, the Forte is still plenty roomy for four people and this is really the only way in which the Forte falls short of its predecessor. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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The new Kia Forte sedan is equally appealing to both men and women - not an easy feat. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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The Forte is as good as or better than anything else in its class, and an extremely well-equipped model tops out at just over $22,000. Shopping for a Forte isn't difficult, though, as two other less expensive trims are available if saving money is of utmost importance. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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The Forte definitely drives like most other Kias, and that's both good and bad. Engine-speed-sensitive steering does its job acceptably, providing the driver with good input at all speeds. The suspension isn't quite up to snuff, as composure tends to fall apart over broken pavement. In terms of sportiness, it definitely falls closer to the Corolla than it does the Lancer in its class. (Daniel Barron/AUTONET)
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