Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback (C-segment)
Target Audience:
Younger buyers, budget-conscious consumers, families seeking a practical and stylish vehicle
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra (platform sibling)
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, stylish design, good fuel economy, extensive feature set for its class
Body Styles:
Sedan and 5-door hatchback (Forte 5 Koup)
Design Philosophy:
Kia's 'Designology' language, emphasizing European-inspired styling
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (axles, differentials, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, parking), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, Engine Control Module (ECM) and powertrain control, HVAC system, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio system, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)
Body:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Exterior trim, Interior trim, Glass and seals
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, scheduled servicing
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential overhauls
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical data
Level:
In-depth factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code:
G4KD (2.0L Theta II MPI)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Horsepower:
156 hp @ 6200 rpm (North American Spec)
Torque:
144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (North American Spec)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves, CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EVAP System
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 Liters (5 US Quarts) with filter change
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 5W-30
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Long Life Coolant (e.g., Mopar HOAT Pink)
Cooling System Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (M/T)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with Shiftronic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.615, 2nd: 2.095, 3rd: 1.433, 4th: 1.071, 5th: 0.911, 6th: 0.794)
Automatic Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 4.056, 2nd: 2.370, 3rd: 1.570, 4th: 1.156, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.776)
Automatic Fluid Type:
SP-IV Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Automatic Fluid Capacity:
7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) for drain and fill
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-85 Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
2.0 Liters (2.1 US Quarts)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for Sedan models in some markets)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2011 model year, typically for Sedan)
Braking System:
Power-assisted disc brakes front and rear; available ABS with EBD
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS) available on higher trims
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point active seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, refer to manual for iridium type
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km); Automatic: Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or consult dealer
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to cap or manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically ATF SP-III or equivalent
Engine Issues:
Occasional oil consumption in high-mileage engines, potential for cam position sensor failure.
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of rough shifting in automatic transmissions; manual clutch wear is normal for usage.
Suspension Issues:
Front suspension components (e.g., ball joints, struts) may wear over time, leading to noise.
Electrical Issues:
Infrequent reports of HVAC blower motor failure or power window motor issues.
Body Issues:
Rust formation on exterior panels, particularly in areas with harsh winters, can occur.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea
Founding:
1944 (as a manufacturer of bicycle parts)
First Generation:
2009 (JS Platform)
Second Generation:
2013 (YD Platform)
Forte 5 Koup Introduction:
Introduced in 2009 as a 2-door coupe variant of the Forte sedan
Assembly Locations:
Hwaseong, South Korea; Yema, China (for Chinese market)
Model Years Covered:
2010-2013 (First Generation)
IIHS Award:
Top Safety Pick (2011 model)
Consumer Reports Rating:
Varied; generally scored well for predicted reliability in early years, but trends changed over time.
Automotive Journalism Awards:
Received positive reviews for styling and value from various automotive publications upon release.