It should come as no surprise that the Korean automotive manufacturer, Kia Motors, continues to take a larger slice of the US marketing pie. Its model line is new, affordable and its vehicles come well equipped. One model that has defined the new Kia is its Forte sedan.
This vehicle replaced the pedestrian Spectra model and has received accolades and praise from across the automotive spectrum. Kia isn't taking any chances with its Forte as it plans to introduce an all-new sedan for the 2014 model year.
Engines and Transmissions
Standard with the 2014 Kia Forte is a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine. This 16-valve motor makes 148 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 131 foot-pounds of torque at 4,700 rpm. Kia pairs this engine with a standard six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is also available.
For more power, a 2.0-liter gasoline direct engine is available. This 16-valve in-line four cylinder makes 173 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and a 154 foot-pounds of torque at 4,700 rpm. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Expect that top fuel economy will come near 40 mpg on the highway.
Forte Sedan Dimensions
The 2014 Kia Forte Sedan sits on a 106.3-inch wheelbase. This vehicle measures 179.5 inches long by 70.1 inches wide by 56.5 inches tall. It has a front track of 61.5 inches and a rear track of 61.1 inches. Ground clearance measures 5.5 inches.
Front head room measures 39.1 inches and there is 37.3 inches in the rear. Front leg room comes in at 42.2 inches to 35.9 inches in the rear. Front shoulder room is 56.1 inches to 54.9 inches in the rear. Total passenger volume measures 96.2 cubic feet. Trunk storage capacity comes in at 14.9 cubic feet. Curb weight ranges from 2,736 to 2,857 pounds.
Model Choices
Kia keeps things simple with the Forte Sedan, selling this model in LX and EX trim levels only. Standard 15-inch steel wheels give way to optional 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels. This model features dual body-colored side mirrors and door handles, automatic on-off halogen headlamps and optional HID headlights.
Inside, this vehicle is outfitted with a six-speaker audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth technology, steering wheel mounted audio control, air-conditioning, power windows and power door locks, and a tilt and telescoping steering column. Also available is an infotainment system, a navigation system with a rear backup camera, keyless entry and push button start, leather treatments, heated front seats and chrome touches.
Safety Features
Although not tested as of publication, the 2014 Kia Forte is expected to once again achieve the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's "top safety pick" as it has done for the past four years.
This model comes with six air bags and is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, an anti-lock brake system, brake assist, hill start assist, stability control, traction control and electronic brake-force distribution. An engine immobilizer is available with the EX edition.
Matt Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. He is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including EBC brakes and Eibach springs.
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