I just bought a 2019 kia forte. I absolutely love it. I traded my 2015 in for it. They have redesigned it alot and made a major improvement. The 2015 was good also.
I am reading only how people love it, but I need to hear what is wrong with it too. since you traded in your 15 can you tell me if you had any problems with it.
@@battosaijenkins946 Because if you look closely, the turn signal cluster is AT the bottom corner of the rear bumper. Any fender bender will likely bust that light cluster.
This Stinger inspired design is a hallmark of the Forte it’s a good driving , practical and user friendly compact car and a good choice for the segment
They stopped copying the optima design and yet the optima still has its older design from 2011 while every other kia products have their updated faces. Guess they forgot about their bread winner.
don't' change what isn't broken, but even then The optima is pure gold. Like their isn't a single American sedan out their that can compete with it. with that said I'm pretty sure they will change the exterior to be closer to the stinger in the next gen of the optima. KIA realizes what a gold mine the stinger is, and would be stupid to not capitalize it.@@samlung2724
I think auto makers are going a little crazy with top end offerings on entry level sedans but w/e. As long as they have more reasonably priced trims it's fine.
I traded in my Toyota Matrix for a 2018 Kia Forte5 - no complaints. I made a review video on my channel somewhere as well. I should make another one after 6 months (november)
I get the sense the reviewer's too fixated on the "sedan" part and is comparing it to the old lame-duck Corolla sedan and not the new hatchback. By this time next year the Corolla sedan and Forte hatchback should both be on their respective new generations.
I test drove this Stinger. Manager is a friend and he lend me a loaner to keep for a weekend. After a weekend I can tell you these 2 things. Most annoying thing is front seats are uncomfortable. It feels like you are sitting on a bench. After about 20 mins of time in the seat you start feeling your back and hips are being annoyed. And lastly anybody who sat in the back seat complained loud road noise. And those are big no for me. I was considering this for my friend who is looking to commute about 50km one way to work. But instead went with 2019 Civic LX.
Overall I think the forte is a good car. It's has good looks , a modern interior , good enough space , and an easy to use infotainment (Could be the perfect college car). The only downside is the cvt (Hopefully they'll offer a manual or automatic for the sx next year).
hey jordan just fyi kia will be releasing a 1.6 litre turbo in this car early next year and it will come with either a 6 speed manual or the 7 speed dual clutch automatic. i myself not a cvt fan but it will be well worth the wait for the turbo
@@alykonate4086 Aly let me tell you why a cvt transmission is not good. its simply because they say they are good for improving fuel economy and i get that. its just that when you press down on the gas pedal you get that droning noise remember cvts do not have gears and depending on the auto manufacturer, they are not as reliable as to a regular automatic, now i could be wrong, but i would rather prefer an automatic over a cvt
CVT is great in terms of both cost and fuel saving at the expense of a less engaging feel. If you let me choose I would never pick the CVT, unless no car manufacturer makes auto gears anymore. Premium cars and performance cars never use CVT, that pretty much explains why.
wow rear vents??? i am liking it ...its competition vw jetta has no rear vents and when asked about this missing feature with jetta designer ..he said there is no market. I was like really?? yo dont have to make features in a car just what a market wants. Sometimes you put those features so that the market will be blown away by it. well done KIA!!!
Just because you do not drive an expensive car, doesn't mean you can't afford it. Why assume because someone is driving a "lower value" car, that they can't afford anything else?
I got a kia forte 2013. Gear stocked to park, engine wont work anymore and dealer saying not part of the warranty given to me 10years/100k miles. A very bad car to buy.
Somehow I still dont see the stinger in this car some styling yes but come on the front bumper with the turn signals at the bottom instead of integrated and the. The rear also? I dislike that part because it's just asking for a $3k job to fix if someone runs into it a 5 or 10 mph, I've seen what's under it and it isn't steal cross member bumper it's fiberglass. Seriously its laughable what we buy for $30k base model after dealer adds the tax and license and their bonus money. Auto gravity sucks just as bad. Oh well.
First KIA went after the mid-sized sedan market with the optima, completely destroyed everyone in that market. Then they released the stinger, and shit on BMW/Audi. Now they are coming for the bread and butter of Toyota/Honda. God help Porsche,Ferrari if they ever want to go after the super car market. KIA already owns the combat SUV market with the Soul, the sorento is selling amazingly. if you're every other Car manufacturer, your looking very nervously at KIA. in just 7 years they went from a garbage brand, to being the most reliable cars on the market, and within another 10 years are going to most likely take honda place in terms of car sales in the US. That being said they do need a new better looking badge. that's something I don't think anyone is going to disagree with.
I own the Mazda 3 and I want to sell it to get the Kia Forte - I Have transmission issues with the crappy Mazda Autos.......Read the mazda forums and you will see how many people have auto transmission issues. Never Mazda again.
Just came by here to remind everyone that this has a god awful CVT thatll drain your wallet dry in just a year or 2 of ownership. Dont waste your money on a new car unless it comes with real gears. Especially not a cheap car like this.
lol... the hate all of you have towards the 2018 accord is laughable. Almost, like those love and hate feelings you get as a 1st grader when you see your first crush.
I drove it twice. Both Fortes I drove were quite impressive. The engine isn't that weak unless you want to hit more than 130km/h. It's pretty silent and has various kinds of tech options that are rare for it's class.
Fantastic review. My only gripe is "not everyone can afford to buy [insert relatively expensive vehicle]" I hear many reviewers use that line in compact and subcompact reviews and frankly it's a little annoying. Not everyone sees the importance on spending a lot of money on an asset that will only depreciate even if they can easily afford it.
Michael Gallegos exactly! a friend of mine lost more in depreciation in two years on his Mercedes than I paid for my whole vw gli and after a software flash on my car’s computer I would beat him in races LOL. I can think of way better things to spend my hard earned money on
I see not many expensive cars on the road if you compare to affordable cars.. Even in VW, for example, how many Jettas have you seen on the road than Civic, Corolla, Kia and Hyundai.. It may sound annoying to you but it is the truth.. Most of us don't give a shit about resale value. We care to keep the car as long as we can.. Any car can last more or less the same amount of time if you know how to take care of your car.. Especially with Kia and Hyundai, 10 years warranty from manufacturer and another 10 more years added by some Dealers can go farther than any other brand on the road today.. That is what it counts.. There are so many choices out there and you make your own choice doesn't mean everybody has to make the same choice..
That is why I got the base Soul with standard 6 speed mt. It has already got more than what I need and a manual transmission will have better longetivity than the cvt/ivt. My project car is from an auction
I just bought a 2019 Kia forte literally one week ago today....last tuesday.i absolutely! Adore my new car! Proud to have it.my salesman was really nice I recommend it to everyone! Everything this man is saying is true to word....mine is excatly like this....❣️❣️❣️❣️
It's a damned nice car for the money! That's for sure. HK audio is a nice bonus. Seems like the Korean twins always have audio quality just a little more in mind than most lower end companies.
@@AlAl-fu6ct - now please tell us how you really feel. If your goal in life is to impress strangers with the car you are driving, go ahead and get your BMW, MBZ or Lexus - you can do whatever you like with your money. But from my experience, the only people who look down their noses at others because of what they wear or drive are jerks and wannabes.
I actually test drove one of these and to be honest if your a simple no frills type of person the CVT isn't too bad, it gets the job done and the mpg is accurate even though I had the car for only 6 hours. I will be doing a full review in the coming days when I get my tester back again. great review Edmunds
It's scary how Kia is designing beautiful cars and big manufactures like Honda struggle to make decent looking ones. The Accord is a prime example of what exteriors shouldn't look like😁
What's so ugly about the accord? I prefer the looks of the newer camry's but find it hard to believe that people would think the Accord is not decent looking at the very least....
@@zgmf-x19ainfinitejustice28 well there's the charger sxt bumper up front. Those tacky sensors are uncovered as well. The Accord also has a jacked up IMPALA side profile. The Hofmeister kink on the rear side looks horrible. The back looks ugly AF with those ugly Kristy krab inspired tail lights. Very inelegant exterior. Honda is copying GM and Dodge and Hyundai for it's exteriors. I could go on about it. But the damage has already been done.
I was trying to choose between the 2019 Kia Forte EX, 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE, and 2018 Mazda 3 GT. The Mazda was the funnest to drive, but it would have been most expensive to insure. It would have been more expensive to insure than the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Touring, which really surprised me. The Corolla would have been the cheapest to insure, but it's also the smallest, and I want my backseat passengers to still be comfortable. Ultimately, I went with the Forte because I was able to get so many features for the money. The dealership was also able to cancel my extended warranty on my Versa and use the prorated refund as a downpayment, so I didn't carry any negative equity into my lease, which I wouldn't have been able to do with the other vehicles. I've heard that Kia is going to release a SX version of the Forte, which would make it more fun to drive. However, the EX is very comfortable to drive and it's a HUGE step up from my Versa's 109hp and droning CVT. The Forte's feels more natural. A major plus were the rear air conditioning vents, which was nearly impossible to find at this price point. I'm also in love with the heated and cooled front seats. I decided to lease because I needed something right away, but I'm super excited for the Mazda 3 redesign next year with AWD, especially their upcoming mild hybrid system. The engine sounds really awesome and exciting, but because it'll be so brand new, they will need some time to work all the kinks out. If the hybrid system does well, I bet they'll put it in their other best seller the CX-5. In three years, I can walk away from this lease and get a Mazda3, CX-5, or RAV4 hybrid. Until then, I will be supremely comfortable in the Forte. No regrets!
I just bought the base model 2019 Forte. You missed two major issues. The Forte get's 30mpg in city, 40 mpg on highway. You also did not mention the new enlarged trunk space. There is so much trunk space.
The price tag for the 2019 Kia Forte is $21,000. Not bad. 147hp. Has everything I don't want: no heated steering wheel, heated seats, no phone charger (without a charge cord) and mo sun roof. A ton of car for a very reasonable price!
Good review, this had been along the lines of what I was thinking comparing all of them. If you just spec out what you need to get an auto and active safety, the Forte is thousands less than the 3 or Civic (still waiting on Canadian pricing of the 2020 Corolla)
This is a regression for Kia. A CVT, a weaker engine, no IRS. I ragged on the Jetta for being cheaply made and lacking IRS but somehow the this Kia is even worse. Disappointment. Maybe I just expect too much from Kia given how good there products normally are. I guess buyers really don't like or care bout driving. Shame
I think Kia really just wanted to make a high quality, efficient car with this new Forte. Don't worry! They've already had spy shots of the "GT" version of this car here in Korea. It will be a sweet driver!
Still driving my 2014 Kia Forte. Over 100k miles and NO problems. Gas and go. I wish Kia would redesign that ugly logo though. Pro Tip: Plasti-dip the chrome trim around the front grille and the car will gain 10 horsepower ;)
In Canada, the base manual transmission Kia Rio Hatchback with added A/C, cruise control, and heated front seats/steering wheel is priced HIGHER than the Kia Forte base model manual transmission, which already includes the above features and a more powerful engine. Sort of makes the Kia Rio Hatchback irrelevant.
I honestly prefer Kia models over Hyundai models, they are from the same group and everything but I think Kia is more reliable, good price and excellent warranty. This particular model is very beautiful, and it has a good price for the features it has. Excellent review guys.
The Elantra is better just because of the transmission. The CVT is no fun, sounds awful, and tends to have a shorter shelf-life than normal transmissions.
Kia's are improving but calling it King of the Compact Sedan Class is offset by the fact that Hyundai/Kia are the only vehicles that are catching on fire on occasion. Their long term reliability is still an issue with some engine failures that are not happening in Toyota - Honda - Mazda vehicles. Rough ride and not the best seats are still on going issues. Kia's are good but not yet at the top of the class.
You make a good point. It's hard to beat Toyota and Honda, but KIA is certainly improving in their quality by leaps and bounds. All KIA cars are thoroughly tested in Korea for many years and all the bugs are eliminated. It's a tested and proved car with great value!
Hyundai and Kia used to be pieces of shit , they've stepped their game up in the last ten years . Would prefer one over an American car for sure. I want a Veloster or if I had money I'd want a Kia stinger. Lol that stinger is so sexy.
I'm 6' 3" and I test drove a Forte with the 10 way power driver's seat and was surprised how comfortable it was. Yes, the telescoping range on the steering wheel is better than average and I actually could get in a more comfortable driving position than I can with my Subaru Legacy Touring XT. I was not expecting that. I have a 2022 Forte GT-Line on order right now with both premium packages. It will have the 10 way power seat with lumbar (just like my Legacy), the Harman-Kardon sound system (just like my Legacy) and ventilated seats (again, just like my Legacy). All for $25,000. It also has every single safety feature and driver assist my Legacy does. Pretty incredible for the price.
Ok, I just picked up the Forte LXS for 16300 out the door including the dealer doc fees, taxes, and tag. This mid-level car rides great and has the lane keep and collision avoidance and better-looking wheels than the base lx model and again no other compact sedan gives you 6ok bumper to bumper and 100k powertrain warranty except Hyundai and KIA. Not Honda, Toyota or Mazda. This new CVT doesn't sound like or drive like the conventional CVT
Standard equipment: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, forward collision avoidance assist, bluetooth, backup camera, 7 inch touch screen, dual zone climate control, USB ports/Aux ports. Crazy value for the money, and I generally hate CVT’s but this one isn’t half bad.
Most drivers drive their cars at 8/10’s to the limit or sit in traffic ridden highways so they will appreciate the high content and value of this car plus it has a longer warranty than Honda or Mazda. Nice job Kia.
I hate stiff ride quality....I don't drive to work on a race track...I drive on poorly maintained public roads with potholes that open up overnight. I like suspensions that prevent my spine from being pulverized into dust.. I don't care if the car is bouncy, I want a comfortable ride.
Had the 2014 ex. It was peppy, good breaks and handled well. The bad was, I never had a car blow out so many tires and ended up running run flats. I think it was rim design. Then ever decreased gas mileage and cold start issues due to carbon buildup...gdi engine problem. Just got a camry 2018 xle with 9000 miles for 24,000. Never looked back!
Interior design has become so lazy; as someone that enjoys cars but is not a fanatic, this reminds me of Mazda 6, Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, etc. I hope this tablet design is just a fad.
I got the basic trim manual transmission and I couldn’t be happier. My only complaint was that the sound system was pretty weak, but I just replaced the speakers and the head unit and I’m totally pleased with my ride.
I would buy a civic over the Forte but would definitely buy the Forte over the corolla any day. In a few years Kia’s and Hyundai’s will be the new kings of reliability.
THE FRONT BUMPER IS OVERWROUGHT. THE REAR BUMPERS AREN'T MUCH TO LOOK AT EITHER. SEEMS TO BE A TREND TODAY OF OVER-DESIGNING THE BUMPERS. TURN UP THE RADIO TO DROWN OUT THE NOISE?
If the forte5 (with the 2.0 T) was also redesigned at the same time as the Forte I would have gotten it. However since that didn't happen I went with a civic hatch
I own a 2017 Elantra. They have a 2.0 Atkinson cycle variant of the Nu engine. I would stay away. Mine, and according to many reports the dealer told me they get, is they make a loud ticking/tapping noise when cold. It sounds like a diesel. Dealer reported Hyundai said it was normal because the metal shrinks in cold weather. I have never ever had a car do this in cold weather and I have had my fair share of bombs. I bought it used so am only covered up to 60000 miles. I said to Hyundai ok if this is so normal cover my car to the full 10 year 100000 mile warranty. They just keep giving me the run around. I mean if there is no issue with the car it would not cost them anything to give the full powertrain warranty. I have no confidence in the longevity of this engine and unfortunately it looks like they are putting these in more models. Also I think these engines are in the Kia Forte and other Kia models.
The Mazda 3 is trash. Poorly built garbage with a loud cramped interior. I’d get the Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra before touching it. But I would choose the Honda, then Kia, then Hyundai and Subaru even before those two.
I just bought a 2019 kia forte. I absolutely love it. I traded my 2015 in for it. They have redesigned it alot and made a major improvement. The 2015 was good also.
I am reading only how people love it, but I need to hear what is wrong with it too. since you traded in your 15 can you tell me if you had any problems with it.
Forte is affordable comfortable and reliable and value for money.
@Edmunds, I dont understand why you guys never have any photoshots of the rear? It's just as important as the front too you know.. jeezus~ =(
@@battosaijenkins946 Because if you look closely, the turn signal cluster is AT the bottom corner of the rear bumper. Any fender bender will likely bust that light cluster.
This Stinger inspired design is a hallmark of the Forte it’s a good driving , practical and user friendly compact car and a good choice for the segment
They stopped copying the optima design and yet the optima still has its older design from 2011 while every other kia products have their updated faces. Guess they forgot about their bread winner.
don't' change what isn't broken, but even then The optima is pure gold. Like their isn't a single American sedan out their that can compete with it.
with that said I'm pretty sure they will change the exterior to be closer to the stinger in the next gen of the optima. KIA realizes what a gold mine the stinger is, and would be stupid to not capitalize it.@@samlung2724
The premium sound speakers you get makes this a top pick over its competitors.
I think auto makers are going a little crazy with top end offerings on entry level sedans but w/e. As long as they have more reasonably priced trims it's fine.
I traded in my Toyota Matrix for a 2018 Kia Forte5 - no complaints. I made a review video on my channel somewhere as well. I should make another one after 6 months (november)
I wonder why Toyota settles for "good enough".
It knows it's customers don't cross shop. They just buy Toyota. Close minded people. Toyota doesn't get new buyers, just existing aging buyers.
@@swanblake how are it's loyal customers closed minded? More like smart, all Toyota are better than Kias
Blake Swan True. and we found one replaying your comment lol.
I get the sense the reviewer's too fixated on the "sedan" part and is comparing it to the old lame-duck Corolla sedan and not the new hatchback. By this time next year the Corolla sedan and Forte hatchback should both be on their respective new generations.
Clous von are you kidding? Everything about this car is better than the corolla
People don’t want to admit that CVTs are getting better. I’m not crazy about them but it’s neat to see how much they’re improving.
I test drove this Stinger. Manager is a friend and he lend me a loaner to keep for a weekend. After a weekend I can tell you these 2 things. Most annoying thing is front seats are uncomfortable. It feels like you are sitting on a bench. After about 20 mins of time in the seat you start feeling your back and hips are being annoyed. And lastly anybody who sat in the back seat complained loud road noise. And those are big no for me. I was considering this for my friend who is looking to commute about 50km one way to work. But instead went with 2019 Civic LX.
Is it because you have less meat on your buttocks? Lol
Overall I think the forte is a good car. It's has good looks , a modern interior , good enough space , and an easy to use infotainment (Could be the perfect college car). The only downside is the cvt (Hopefully they'll offer a manual or automatic for the sx next year).
hey jordan just fyi kia will be releasing a 1.6 litre turbo in this car early next year and it will come with either a 6 speed manual or the 7 speed dual clutch automatic. i myself not a cvt fan but it will be well worth the wait for the turbo
@@jbshp2011 Thanks 😁👍
Why a CVT transmission is not good? I am looking for a new car but i never had a car with a cvt transmission.
@@alykonate4086 Aly let me tell you why a cvt transmission is not good. its simply because they say they are good for improving fuel economy and i get that. its just that when you press down on the gas pedal you get that droning noise remember cvts do not have gears and depending on the auto manufacturer, they are not as reliable as to a regular automatic, now i could be wrong, but i would rather prefer an automatic over a cvt
CVT is great in terms of both cost and fuel saving at the expense of a less engaging feel. If you let me choose I would never pick the CVT, unless no car manufacturer makes auto gears anymore. Premium cars and performance cars never use CVT, that pretty much explains why.
Mark does great review as always, but we didn't get a walk around on the car's exterior.
wow rear vents??? i am liking it ...its competition vw jetta has no rear vents and when asked about this missing feature with jetta designer ..he said there is no market. I was like really?? yo dont have to make features in a car just what a market wants. Sometimes you put those features so that the market will be blown away by it. well done KIA!!!
Just because you do not drive an expensive car, doesn't mean you can't afford it. Why assume because someone is driving a "lower value" car, that they can't afford anything else?
Hey Mark, why would you take it over the Civic? Just curious..
I like the looks of this car they have a good designer at Kia.
The designer used to work for Adui
Esta bellisimo, muy buen trabajo de kia
I got a kia forte 2013. Gear stocked to park, engine wont work anymore and dealer saying not part of the warranty given to me 10years/100k miles. A very bad car to buy.
Should compare the Kia Forte with Subaru Impreza.
Somehow I still dont see the stinger in this car some styling yes but come on the front bumper with the turn signals at the bottom instead of integrated and the. The rear also? I dislike that part because it's just asking for a $3k job to fix if someone runs into it a 5 or 10 mph, I've seen what's under it and it isn't steal cross member bumper it's fiberglass. Seriously its laughable what we buy for $30k base model after dealer adds the tax and license and their bonus money. Auto gravity sucks just as bad. Oh well.
I wish there wasn't an "IVT" in this. I wish the manual was available in other trims.
First KIA went after the mid-sized sedan market with the optima, completely destroyed everyone in that market.
Then they released the stinger, and shit on BMW/Audi.
Now they are coming for the bread and butter of Toyota/Honda.
God help Porsche,Ferrari if they ever want to go after the super car market.
KIA already owns the combat SUV market with the Soul, the sorento is selling amazingly. if you're every other Car manufacturer, your looking very nervously at KIA. in just 7 years they went from a garbage brand, to being the most reliable cars on the market, and within another 10 years are going to most likely take honda place in terms of car sales in the US.
That being said they do need a new better looking badge. that's something I don't think anyone is going to disagree with.
I read that badge and think 'Killed In Action'
But stole interior from alfa romeo
Heres the main question, is it loud?
ICan'tFindMyGlasses thats answered in alex on auto :)
Like it but don't like engine fires . I'll pass.
Btter than a Mondeo
Mondeo is a piece of crap.
funny, i'd take the cheapest model only because it has a manual..
"Near Bull Run". It's a sign! Time to put more money on Crypto!
👍👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️❤️
I own the Mazda 3 and I want to sell it to get the Kia Forte - I Have transmission issues with the crappy Mazda Autos.......Read the mazda forums and you will see how many people have auto transmission issues. Never Mazda again.
CVT? No Thank you
Just came by here to remind everyone that this has a god awful CVT thatll drain your wallet dry in just a year or 2 of ownership. Dont waste your money on a new car unless it comes with real gears. Especially not a cheap car like this.
I'm also glad to hear that because Ford will bring them down.
Doubt it... Ford is ceasing production of call cars... except the Mustang.
Too much for this car
It 's very class competitive.
lol... the hate all of you have towards the 2018 accord is laughable. Almost, like those love and hate feelings you get as a 1st grader when you see your first crush.
Shit car... test driven it and immediately out of my decision buying list, don't let the exterior design fool you.
Love my forte !
New life motto: "If I didn't tap that, I wouldn't have known.
Razor 😂
I drove it twice. Both Fortes I drove were quite impressive. The engine isn't that weak unless you want to hit more than 130km/h. It's pretty silent and has various kinds of tech options that are rare for it's class.
유재혁 well said mate!
Fantastic review. My only gripe is "not everyone can afford to buy [insert relatively expensive vehicle]" I hear many reviewers use that line in compact and subcompact reviews and frankly it's a little annoying. Not everyone sees the importance on spending a lot of money on an asset that will only depreciate even if they can easily afford it.
Michael Gallegos exactly! a friend of mine lost more in depreciation in two years on his Mercedes than I paid for my whole vw gli and after a software flash on my car’s computer I would beat him in races LOL. I can think of way better things to spend my hard earned money on
@@78Ford351 mustangs are timeless 🤣🤣
Michael Gallegos Thank you Mr.Gallegos
I see not many expensive cars on the road if you compare to affordable cars..
Even in VW, for example, how many Jettas have you seen on the road than Civic, Corolla, Kia and Hyundai..
It may sound annoying to you but it is the truth..
Most of us don't give a shit about resale value.
We care to keep the car as long as we can..
Any car can last more or less the same amount of time if you know how to take care of your car..
Especially with Kia and Hyundai, 10 years warranty from manufacturer and another 10 more years added by some Dealers can go farther than any other brand on the road today..
That is what it counts..
There are so many choices out there and you make your own choice doesn't mean everybody has to make the same choice..
That is why I got the base Soul with standard 6 speed mt. It has already got more than what I need and a manual transmission will have better longetivity than the cvt/ivt. My project car is from an auction
I just bought a 2019 Kia forte literally one week ago today....last tuesday.i absolutely! Adore my new car! Proud to have it.my salesman was really nice I recommend it to everyone! Everything this man is saying is true to word....mine is excatly like this....❣️❣️❣️❣️
I ❤my 2021KIA F0RTE 6SPEED
It's a damned nice car for the money! That's for sure. HK audio is a nice bonus. Seems like the Korean twins always have audio quality just a little more in mind than most lower end companies.
It’s almost like Kia is going for Mercedes and Hyundai is going for Audi. Hyundai/Kia are doing amazing. Peter Schreyer is doing a great job.
hyundai and kia are garbage
@Jackson Whitlow its way better than this lol
Isaiah Martinez I agree
@@AlAl-fu6ct - now please tell us how you really feel. If your goal in life is to impress strangers with the car you are driving, go ahead and get your BMW, MBZ or Lexus - you can do whatever you like with your money. But from my experience, the only people who look down their noses at others because of what they wear or drive are jerks and wannabes.
Very nice looking car! Makes me want to upgrade but I'm really happy with my 2016 Forte. No issues!
I actually test drove one of these and to be honest if your a simple no frills type of person the CVT isn't too bad, it gets the job done and the mpg is accurate even though I had the car for only 6 hours. I will be doing a full review in the coming days when I get my tester back again. great review Edmunds
It's scary how Kia is designing beautiful cars and big manufactures like Honda struggle to make decent looking ones. The Accord is a prime example of what exteriors shouldn't look like😁
What's so ugly about the accord? I prefer the looks of the newer camry's but find it hard to believe that people would think the Accord is not decent looking at the very least....
@@zgmf-x19ainfinitejustice28 well there's the charger sxt bumper up front. Those tacky sensors are uncovered as well. The Accord also has a jacked up IMPALA side profile. The Hofmeister kink on the rear side looks horrible. The back looks ugly AF with those ugly Kristy krab inspired tail lights. Very inelegant exterior. Honda is copying GM and Dodge and Hyundai for it's exteriors. I could go on about it. But the damage has already been done.
Accord is beautiful! It is Car & Driver’s America’s Best Sedan & North American Car of the Year! Most awarded sedan this year.
@@DONVITO223 all those awards are paid for.
The Accord is a boring looking dishwasher. That's the problem.
So the forte stopped getting its looks from the optima now? Right now the optima is the only car that still has the original face from like 2009
Sam Lung 2011 or 12
One German guy can do so much for Kia group, money well-spent
I was trying to choose between the 2019 Kia Forte EX, 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE, and 2018 Mazda 3 GT. The Mazda was the funnest to drive, but it would have been most expensive to insure. It would have been more expensive to insure than the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Touring, which really surprised me. The Corolla would have been the cheapest to insure, but it's also the smallest, and I want my backseat passengers to still be comfortable.
Ultimately, I went with the Forte because I was able to get so many features for the money. The dealership was also able to cancel my extended warranty on my Versa and use the prorated refund as a downpayment, so I didn't carry any negative equity into my lease, which I wouldn't have been able to do with the other vehicles. I've heard that Kia is going to release a SX version of the Forte, which would make it more fun to drive. However, the EX is very comfortable to drive and it's a HUGE step up from my Versa's 109hp and droning CVT. The Forte's feels more natural. A major plus were the rear air conditioning vents, which was nearly impossible to find at this price point. I'm also in love with the heated and cooled front seats.
I decided to lease because I needed something right away, but I'm super excited for the Mazda 3 redesign next year with AWD, especially their upcoming mild hybrid system. The engine sounds really awesome and exciting, but because it'll be so brand new, they will need some time to work all the kinks out. If the hybrid system does well, I bet they'll put it in their other best seller the CX-5. In three years, I can walk away from this lease and get a Mazda3, CX-5, or RAV4 hybrid. Until then, I will be supremely comfortable in the Forte. No regrets!
I just bought the base model 2019 Forte. You missed two major issues. The Forte get's 30mpg in city, 40 mpg on highway. You also did not mention the new enlarged trunk space. There is so much trunk space.
The price tag for the 2019 Kia Forte is $21,000. Not bad. 147hp. Has everything I don't want: no heated steering wheel, heated seats, no phone charger (without a charge cord) and mo sun roof.
A ton of car for a very reasonable price!
Good review, this had been along the lines of what I was thinking comparing all of them. If you just spec out what you need to get an auto and active safety, the Forte is thousands less than the 3 or Civic (still waiting on Canadian pricing of the 2020 Corolla)
Why is it more expensive than Australia?
US$18500 versus A$20000.
I always thought cars are cheaper in the USA.
Not anymore ... :(
Pretty slow,when you put it into sport it wakes up nice.Looks good .Quiet.Base model seat ok
These “compact” class cars are the same size as mid-sized sedans 10 years ago.
CHECKED IT OUT...LOVED IT AND PURCHACED IT !!
Just picked up my 2019 LXS model after owning a Ford Five Hundred for 14 years...Ford was good to me,but,this Forte is my forte😊
Dawn Huffman now that you’ve had it while, would you recommend it? I’m seriously considering purchasing the LXS for my daughter this week. TIA 😊
I keep seeing these on the road an think it's a luxury car
This is a regression for Kia. A CVT, a weaker engine, no IRS. I ragged on the Jetta for being cheaply made and lacking IRS but somehow the this Kia is even worse. Disappointment. Maybe I just expect too much from Kia given how good there products normally are. I guess buyers really don't like or care bout driving. Shame
I think Kia really just wanted to make a high quality, efficient car with this new Forte. Don't worry! They've already had spy shots of the "GT" version of this car here in Korea. It will be a sweet driver!
Still driving my 2014 Kia Forte. Over 100k miles and NO problems. Gas and go. I wish Kia would redesign that ugly logo though.
Pro Tip: Plasti-dip the chrome trim around the front grille and the car will gain 10 horsepower ;)
Put a “Sport” badge on it for at least another 5 hp.
A tip for your subtitler, Mark says 'styling' at 25 something seconds in, not inaudible.
Thanks for the info. I'll take your word for it. It probably slipped by me
I think the Forte looks incredible. Hopefully it’ll get a proper 6 speed, the 1.6t, and an irs.
In Canada, the base manual transmission Kia Rio Hatchback with added A/C, cruise control, and heated front seats/steering wheel is priced HIGHER than the Kia Forte base model manual transmission, which already includes the above features and a more powerful engine. Sort of makes the Kia Rio Hatchback irrelevant.
I honestly prefer Kia models over Hyundai models, they are from the same group and everything but I think Kia is more reliable, good price and excellent warranty. This particular model is very beautiful, and it has a good price for the features it has. Excellent review guys.
Thays weird because it literally is a Hyundai in every way but the body panels, sit in a Forte then sit in a elantra, there's no difference
Clous von the interior is completely different are you blind
The Elantra is better just because of the transmission. The CVT is no fun, sounds awful, and tends to have a shorter shelf-life than normal transmissions.
This new Forte is on the same platform as the current Elantra.
This forte one currently seems to have the same engine as the Hyundai Elantra. So not much different in engine power.
Kia's are improving but calling it King of the Compact Sedan Class is offset by the fact that Hyundai/Kia are the only vehicles that are catching on fire on occasion. Their long term reliability is still an issue with some engine failures that are not happening in Toyota - Honda - Mazda vehicles. Rough ride and not the best seats are still on going issues. Kia's are good but not yet at the top of the class.
You make a good point. It's hard to beat Toyota and Honda, but KIA is certainly improving in their quality by leaps and bounds. All KIA cars are thoroughly tested in Korea for many years and all the bugs are eliminated. It's a tested and proved car with great value!
Hyundai and Kia used to be pieces of shit , they've stepped their game up in the last ten years . Would prefer one over an American car for sure. I want a Veloster or if I had money I'd want a Kia stinger. Lol that stinger is so sexy.
Magnifique voiture, dommage qu’elle n’est pas disponible chez nous.
Great review! No other car in it’s class offers ventilated seats, even in the 23k non- launch edition
CVT is boring
CVT is a crime against drivers.
Not this cvt. Shifts very smooth With no droning noise and in sports driving mode car is plenty fast enough
Looks cool , specially the interior quality looks perfect
I'm 6' 3" and I test drove a Forte with the 10 way power driver's seat and was surprised how comfortable it was. Yes, the telescoping range on the steering wheel is better than average and I actually could get in a more comfortable driving position than I can with my Subaru Legacy Touring XT. I was not expecting that. I have a 2022 Forte GT-Line on order right now with both premium packages. It will have the 10 way power seat with lumbar (just like my Legacy), the Harman-Kardon sound system (just like my Legacy) and ventilated seats (again, just like my Legacy). All for $25,000. It also has every single safety feature and driver assist my Legacy does. Pretty incredible for the price.
Got a brand new 1 in 2018 $19990
Now near $30 k ???
Ok, I just picked up the Forte LXS for 16300 out the door including the dealer doc fees, taxes, and tag. This mid-level car rides great and has the lane keep and collision avoidance and better-looking wheels than the base lx model and again no other compact sedan gives you 6ok bumper to bumper and 100k powertrain warranty except Hyundai and KIA. Not Honda, Toyota or Mazda. This new CVT doesn't sound like or drive like the conventional CVT
Standard equipment: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, forward collision avoidance assist, bluetooth, backup camera, 7 inch touch screen, dual zone climate control, USB ports/Aux ports. Crazy value for the money, and I generally hate CVT’s but this one isn’t half bad.
I wish we could get this bad boy in Pakistan ❤
No you don't. It's awful.
Most drivers drive their cars at 8/10’s to the limit or sit in traffic ridden highways so they will appreciate the high content and value of this car plus it has a longer warranty than Honda or Mazda. Nice job Kia.
Mazda makes kia look like shit
I love kia cars but i think they needed a new design for their badge. I think the k logo would go along well.
I hate stiff ride quality....I don't drive to work on a race track...I drive on poorly maintained public roads with potholes that open up overnight. I like suspensions that prevent my spine from being pulverized into dust.. I don't care if the car is bouncy, I want a comfortable ride.
Had the 2014 ex. It was peppy, good breaks and handled well. The bad was, I never had a car blow out so many tires and ended up running run flats. I think it was rim design. Then ever decreased gas mileage and cold start issues due to carbon buildup...gdi engine problem. Just got a camry 2018 xle with 9000 miles for 24,000. Never looked back!
Interior design has become so lazy; as someone that enjoys cars but is not a fanatic, this reminds me of Mazda 6, Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, etc. I hope this tablet design is just a fad.
I got the basic trim manual transmission and I couldn’t be happier. My only complaint was that the sound system was pretty weak, but I just replaced the speakers and the head unit and I’m totally pleased with my ride.
did anyone notice he face is really red? maybe he drank a little bit too much before the review? lol
He said it was a hot and muggy day.
I would buy a civic over the Forte but would definitely buy the Forte over the corolla any day. In a few years Kia’s and Hyundai’s will be the new kings of reliability.
i live in jamaica and I'm 19yrs old. i will buy me a kia caldenza 2014 next year.. one of my goal is to own a rental deaership of kia vehicles only
Kendrick Palmer hope you achieve ur dream bro
Why wouldn't you recommend the corolla as much as mazda 3, civic, and forte? does that include the new generation of corollas?
Something gets to my mind. Do you think KIA will develop plug and play paddle shifters to be installed in this new KIA?
THE FRONT BUMPER IS OVERWROUGHT. THE REAR BUMPERS AREN'T MUCH TO LOOK AT EITHER. SEEMS TO BE A TREND TODAY OF OVER-DESIGNING THE BUMPERS.
TURN UP THE RADIO TO DROWN OUT THE NOISE?
If the forte5 (with the 2.0 T) was also redesigned at the same time as the Forte I would have gotten it. However since that didn't happen I went with a civic hatch
still has shit resale value...same level as dodge, chevy... who wants to drive a car with a cvt?! ::crickets::
Sorry but for 26k, just get an Elantra Sport with a proper 7 speed DCT and 201 hp.
Mark - you make the best car reviews on TH-cam - all you need to know about a car in less then 7 minutes! Thanks a lot!
Too bad those Launch Edition options are only available with that orange/red exterior color.
IT IS NOT A C.V.T
Yes it is. Where did you get your information? It mimics a transmission with gears for the benefit of the driver.
I m considering M3 and Forte as well ... Anyway, this video helps me to decide :)
I test drove one..still think the New Jetta is the best drive/power ratio of the segment with it's 1.4 litre turbo
Did we drive the same car? the Forte is so slow! It doesn't come close to a Honda Civic ext
Nice, but way too much money for a car that depreciates a lot more than its competitors.
The interior is classy
I own a 2017 Elantra. They have a 2.0 Atkinson cycle variant of the Nu engine. I would stay away. Mine, and according to many reports the dealer told me they get, is they make a loud ticking/tapping noise when cold. It sounds like a diesel. Dealer reported Hyundai said it was normal because the metal shrinks in cold weather. I have never ever had a car do this in cold weather and I have had my fair share of bombs. I bought it used so am only covered up to 60000 miles. I said to Hyundai ok if this is so normal cover my car to the full 10 year 100000 mile warranty. They just keep giving me the run around. I mean if there is no issue with the car it would not cost them anything to give the full powertrain warranty. I have no confidence in the longevity of this engine and unfortunately it looks like they are putting these in more models. Also I think these engines are in the Kia Forte and other Kia models.
Are you putting in some shitty gas? My Corolla does that sometimes.
Am i the only one who thinks alot of the new cars copy the 2016 civic?
Weird I heard another video that said the materials were too dull looking and cheap feeling....
The Mazda 3 is trash. Poorly built garbage with a loud cramped interior. I’d get the Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra before touching it. But I would choose the Honda, then Kia, then Hyundai and Subaru even before those two.
your a complete idiot
I'm waiting to see what the gt model will look like and hopefully 200 hp at least.