Kia Forte Hatchback

Overview

The Kia forte hatchback is a compact hatchback that offers complete style and versatile features with a performance driven engine attached under the hood.  The EX trim  is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 173 hp of maximum power and 154 lb-ft of peak torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The hot hatch offers a decent fuel economy of 25-33 mpg in combined figures (city/highway). Meanwhile, the SX trim comes powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 engine that produces a maximum power of  201 hp and 195 lb-ft of peak torque. It is paired to a  six-speed manual and an optional six-speed automatic transmission. It offers fuel economy between 21-29 mpg in both transmissions. It offers some new design accent such as  HID headlights, a heated steering wheel, heated plus ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, hands-free keyless entry with push-button start, heated outboard rear seats, LED taillights, and an infotainment system inside. The central console  depicts the enhancements in Kia's design throughout these years. The controls are fitted smoothly and are handy to use.It comes equipped with standard  antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags, traction and stability control. However, the rearview camera is available as an option. The hatchback can also be assembled with optional Uvo telematics services like emergency crash notification, roadside assistance, and driver monitoring features. Kia has updated many safety features in the new Forte hatchback. It is spacious than many similar looking sedans and cars present in its segment, thus, making it to the top.The Kia Forte Hatchback has  received a five-star rating in side crash and four-star rating rollover tests from the NHTSA.

Mileage and Fuel economy

The Forte Hatchback comes with best in class engine options like any other similar compact hatch. The 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine churns out  201 horsepower of maximum power and accelerates from  0-60 kmph in just 7 seconds. The 1.6 turbo powertrain offers a decent mileage of 24-29 mpg in combined  driving (In city & highway).

Power

The 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder produces  201 horsepower of maximum power and a peak torque of 195 lb-ft.

Acceleration & Pickup

The Kia Forte hatchback accelerates in 7 seconds, taking the car from 0-to-60 kmph.

Exterior

The exterior of the Forte hatchback looks dynamic and upmarket. Aside from the aerodynamic and sleek body design, the cutting-edge accents and LED headlights add a plus point to the looks. The SX model offers 18-inch wheels which give it a bold figure look.The rake of the front profile looks similar to a sports car thoroughly defined with a roofline. The side profile also appears balanced towards the tail. The rear end  gets a thin lip liner with chrome accent.

Exterior Measurements

The exterior of Kia forte hatchback measures 171.3 x 70.1 x 57.1 in.(LxWxH) and offers a wheelbase of  106.3 inches.

Interior

From inside, the Forte looks simple with a decent and well-sculptured dashboard. The central console depicts the enhancements in Kia's design throughout these years. The controls are fitted smoothly and are handy to use. The hatchback offers bold, big and round climate-control knobs that are too easy to operate and reachable.The central console in the dashboard comes fitted with a large LCD screen which makes it look upmarket and beautiful. The new Kia tech system is very effective and allows the driver to get live google maps updates and data stream via smartphone connection.

Interior Measurements

Although, small hatchbacks don't offer much cargo space, but here Forte offers around  23 cu ft. of space behind the rear seats which is more than some large sedans. The rear seats can be easily folded in order to get more luggage room. The front seats offer a good adjustment and allow enough headroom for tall drivers. The extra width and a gently curved center console fall out of the way of knee space. In other words, Forte might be a compelling alternative to a crossover.

Engine and Performance

The EX trim  is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 173 hp of maximum power and 154 lb-ft of peak torque.  The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The SX trim comes powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 engine that produces a maximum power of  201 hp and 195 lb-ft of peak torque. It is paired to a  six-speed manual and an optional six-speed automatic transmission.

Wheels

The Forte hatchback comes with large 18-inch alloy wheels.

Braking and Handling

The Forte hatchback offers amazing driving experience with different driving modes namely, normal, sport. The power steering function is inspired by the system found assembled on the Hyundai Elantra GT. The automatic transmission facilitates smooth gear changes, and responds efficiently to downshifts during merging situations and typical passing. It is responsive and makes the car stable in close corners.

Safety and Security

The  Kia Forte offers an array of safety features that are standard and reliable. It comes equipped with standard antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags, traction and stability control. However, the rearview camera is available as an option. The hatchback can also be assembled with optional Uvo telematics services like emergency crash notification, roadside assistance, and driver monitoring features.

Pros

1. Good Performer and responsive engine
2. Powerful external mirror
3. Easy to use controls

 Cons

1. Tight rear seat
2. Below-average fuel economy