A week in the 2010 Kia Forte SX: Day 1 (introduction)

The sporty SX version of Kia's new 2010 Forte compact sedan is spending a week with the DC Car Examiner. See more photos of the Forte in today's slideshow -- all photos by Brady Holt. 

Regular readers of the DC Car Examiner may find the car in the above photo to be somewhat familiar. After all, another black Kia Forte had been reviewed in this space earlier this summer. Distinguishing the two compact economy sedans is one letter -- that was a Forte EX and the car in the photo is the Forte SX. 

How much difference does that letter make? 

Is the Forte right for
this road? Find out!

It swaps out a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder for a more powerful 2.4, controlled by a six-speed manual transmission. (An automatic is also available.) It adds a "sport-tuned suspension." And between the two cars tested, this one also has a leather-appointed interior and other extra accessories. 

But how much difference do those things make? 

Check back daily over the next week for updates on whether prolonged exposure to the Forte in general and the sporting enhancements to the SX in particular are enough to reverse the underwhelming impression the EX left earlier this year. You'll see impressions of what it's like to live with this car  in rain and sunshine, at day and night, on empty highways, on city streets, along curvy back roads, and in rush hour congestion. Check back for daily updates on the basics of its driving dynamics and comfort, and for more nuanced details that emerge over extended use.

And I invite you all to leave any questions you'd like me to be on special lookout for in the comments section below, or by e-mail at dc.car.examiner@gmail.com.  

Day 1: Introduction
Day 3: Stop-and-go driving
Day 4: Highway driving
Day 6: Inside the car
Day 8: Ride, acceleration, and handling

Past weeklong reviews: 
2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring
2010 Kia Soul Sport

Vehicle tested: 2010 Kia Forte
Vehicle base price (MSRP): $13,965
Version tested: SX
Vehicle price as tested (MSRP): $19,490
Estimated transaction price as tested: $16,905
Odometer at beginning of test: 1,442 miles

Key specifications: 
Length: 178.3 inches
Width: 69.9 inches
Height: 57.5 inches
Wheelbase: 104.3 inches
Weight: 2,853 pounds
Trunk room: 14.7 cubic feet
Turning circle: 35.4 feet
Engine: 2.4-liter I4 with 173 horsepower
Transmission: 6-speed manual
EPA city mileage: 22 miles per gallon
EPA highway mileage: 32 miles per gallon
EPA mixed driving: 26 miles per gallon
Observed during test so far: 30.1 miles per gallon