Kia dealers, both here in Vermont and nationally, must be pleased with the way sales are going. Kia Motors is in the midst of a design-led transformation, which has been delivering uniquely styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time.
Joining the Forte line with the same sleek styling as its sedan sibling, the 2011 Forte 5-door offers an added level of flexibility for everyday needs with its functional hatchback. From the front and side, Forte sedan and 5-door have a clean and streamlined presence with sweeping window arches and smooth fender flairs.
With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, the sedan and 5-door offer seating for up to five passengers. The Forte sedan has 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume; the 5-door 97.5 cubic feet. The sedan’s trunk has a surprisingly adequate 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, but the 5-door has 19.4 cubic feet, with easy access provided by the hatchback configuration.
Kia designers are well-known for their clever use of interior space. In the Forte they’ve made every effort to incorporate style and function, starting with a high-visibility center stack and a three-gauge instrument cluster backlit with a red glow. Both body styles offer a long list of standard interior features, including comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver’s seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are standard on every vehicle.
Standard convenience features also include air conditioning, SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service, MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth wireless technology and steering wheel-mounted audio controls
Available in LX, EX and SX trim levels for the sedan and EX and SX versions for the 5-door,pricing for the sedan starts at $14,995 for the base trim, while pricing for the all-new versatile hatchback begins at $16,895.
Both EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard features such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; tweeter speakers; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Steering wheel paddle shifters come standard on all SX trims to satisfy those who think they need a more spirited driving experience.
EX models also offer an optional Premium Package that includes a power sunroof with tilt and 16-inch alloy wheels and 205/55R16 tires. The power sunroof is an available stand-alone option on some models
Turn signal indicators are integrated into the side mirrors on EX and SX trims, adding to the upscale appearance. The SX trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17 tires and a silver-finished exhaust tip.
Forte’s front-wheel-drive unibody structure has an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar. The torsion beam rear suspension has monotube shock absorbers and coil springs. This combination helps provide a nice balance of ride comfort and handling.
SX models get a performance-tuned suspension that provides a firmer feel and responsiveness. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capability.
SX models also have a unique black interior with sport cloth fabric highlighted with red stitching, a telescopic steering column, special gauge cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim and pedals.
Forte offers a high level of standard safety equipment, with features such as front active headrests, dual advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, side impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, a brake assist system, stability control, traction control and tire pressure monitoring.
Forte LX and EX models are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 lb.-ft. of torque. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine which delivers 173 horsepower.
New for 2011, Forte now offers six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission options. Forte LX comes standardwith the six-speed manual while EX and SX trim levels offer a standard six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic is a proprietary design for Kia Motors that was engineered and built specifically for Kia vehicles.
The 2.0-liter engine gets 25/34 mpg, city/highway when mated to either the manual or automatic transmissions, while the 2.4-liter engine turns out 22/32 mpg when coupled with the manual transmission and 23/32 mpg (sedan) or 23/31 mp (5-door) with the automatic transmission.
An optional Fuel Economy Package, available on the EX sedan model with the 2.0-liter engine, includes the six-speed automatic transmission, electric motor driven power steering, “smart” alternator, new low-rolling resistance silica tires and aerodynamic enhancements. These improvements result in 27/37 mpg and an impressive combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.
The EX and SX Technology Packages, available on both sedan and 5-door models, includes navigation, fully automatic temperature control, push button start, fog lamps (EX package only), automatic headlamps and chrome exterior door handles. The available SX Leather Package offers additional luxurious enhancements, including leather seat trim, heated front seats and an electro-chromic rear view mirror.
Standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetoothwireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones.
For true audiophiles, the EX and SX trims add a standard six-speaker sound audio system. Forte’s advanced audio system also includes speed dependent volume control, which automatically increases the volume at higher speeds for better listening enjoyment, and power bass, which automatically enhances the bass response and tone.
Like all Kia models, Forte and Forte 5-door are covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which includes a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.
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