The Kia Forte is the replacement vehicle to the Kia Spectra. It was first introduced in the model year 2009 as 2010 model vehicle. The starting price of the model is around $13,695 and extends up to $20,000.
The variation in the price depends on the amenities, engine power, body style and the market in which it is sold. The Spectra sedan was one of the top selling models in American market, which was debuted in 2000.
Kia Forte
Present Model (2009-Present)
The current generation Kia Forte is offered in three trim versions, the base model LX, EX and up-level SX. All the models are offered in front wheel drive. It uses torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs and struts and an independent front suspension with stabilizer bar and coil springs. By its body refinements and several chassis, the vibration, harshness and noise is reduced to maximum extent.
Kia Forte
Power to the LX and EX versions comes from 2.0 liter DOHC I-4 engine that delivers 156 hp and torque of 144 lb ft, while the up-level model is equipped with a 2.4 liter I-4 engine that produces 173 hp of power and 160 lb ft of torque. The available transmissions to the base engine include 5-speed manual, offered as standard and optional 4-speed automatic transmission, which is controlled electronically. The engine in the SX version can be mated to either 6-speed manual or to an optional 5-speed automatic with sportmatic manual shifting.
Specifications
The low resistance tires with aero enhancements, motor drive power steering and 5-speed automatic transmission result in achieving great fuel economy rates, 30 miles per gallon in the city premises and 36 miles per gallon on the highway roads.
The standard features in the SX and EX model include cruise control, floor mats, dual front and rear cup holders, power doors and windows, air conditioning, steering wheel mounted audio controls, remote keyless entry and map lamps. Also standard are telescopic steering column and sport cloth seats with red stitching. Sunroof and leather seats are offered as optional.
The starting price of the base sedan model is around $13,695, excluding destination charges, while the cost of EX and SX models start at $15,795 and $17,195.
As far as the exteriors dimensions of the Kia Forte model are concerned, it has the wheel base of 104.3 inches, width of 69.9 inches, overall length of 178.3 inches and height of 57.5 inches. The Forte model comes not only with wider exteriors, but also offers roomy interior region.
The entertainment and communication features in the Forte model include Sirius satellite radio, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, audio input jack, USB port, hands free operation for cell phones, steering wheel controls and 6-speaker surround audio system.