2019 Kia Forte Review

Introduced back in the 2010 model year, the Kia Forte was originally aimed at young buyers seeking a stylish and affordable compact car. The redesigned 2019 Kia Forte continues that mission, but it's no longer just an alternative to the establishment. This Forte is a desirable car in its own right thanks to a sharp design, engaging performance, and plenty of technology and safety features for the money.

The Forte enters its third generation with new styling cues. The long hood and fastback-style sloping roofline mimic those from Kia's top Stinger sport sedan. Power hasn't changed; the Forte still uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 147 horsepower, but a new continuously variable automatic transmission promises improved fuel economy. Last year's sporty Forte SX, with its turbocharged 201-hp engine, has been discontinued, but a similarly themed Forte GT is set to arrive for the 2020 model year.

The new-generation Forte also retains the model's main draws: a wealth of desirable standard features starting from the base trim level, including dual-zone air conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen tech interface, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and driver safety aids including automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist.

That's just the start, too. The top EX trim offers premium touches such as faux leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free trunk. All Fortes also have 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, a sizable amount for any compact car.

The new Forte isn't without compromise, however. Acceleration is adequate, but we wouldn't call it impressive. Improved handling characteristics come at the expense of a stiffer ride, and overall the Forte's performance chops aren't quite as polished as those of its Honda and Mazda rivals. But for many drivers, the differences will be hard to spot. Overall, the Forte more than satisfies with its mix of great features, attractive style and appealing price.

The 2019 Kia Forte is available in four trim levels: FE, LXS, S, and EX. All are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 132 pound-feet of torque). A six-speed manual transmission comes with the FE, while a continuously variable automatic transmission is standard-issue on all other trim levels.

Standard features on the FE include 15-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a four-speaker audio system with USB and auxiliary audio jacks. The FE also comes with a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.

Moving up to the LXS adds 16-inch alloy wheels, selectable drive modes, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, and soft-touch dash and door surfaces. The S trim continues the upgrades with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, foglights, a rear-seat armrest, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio and Kia's Uvo communication services. Features included in the optional S Premium package are a sunroof, LED headlights and automatic high beams.

The EX trim adds the final touches with heated side mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, push-button ignition, keyless entry, keyless trunk opener, simulated-leather upholstery, a power adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, a sliding armrest and two extra USB ports. Additional driver aids on the EX include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist.

Still want more? The EX Launch Edition package adds a load of premium features, including unique 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, a rear decklid spoiler, LED headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a larger gauge cluster display, a navigation system with voice controls, a wireless device charger, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with HD radio. This package also includes adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection for the automatic emergency braking system, rear parking sensors, and automatic high beams.