Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback/Coupe
Competitors 2011:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, modern styling, good fuel economy, and a decent feature set for its class.
Design Philosophy:
Kias 'Tiger Nose' grille, sporty and youthful design language.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L Theta II GDI/MPI, 2.4L Theta II GDI), Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam), Steering (Electric Power Steering), Brakes (Front Ventilated Disc, Rear Disc), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
ECU, Sensors, Actuators, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Distribution, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Brake component replacement, Suspension work, Electrical system repair, Body panel replacement
Installation:
Component installation and removal, Accessory installation guidance
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic lubrication and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Code 2.0L:
G4KD (MPI), G4NC (MPI), G4KF (GDI)
Displacement 2.0L:
1998 cc
Bore Stroke 2.0L:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio 2.0L:
10.1:1 (MPI), 12.0:1 (GDI)
Horsepower 2.0L:
156 hp @ 6200 rpm (MPI), 175 hp @ 6500 rpm (GDI)
Torque 2.0L:
144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (MPI), 169 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (GDI)
Engine Code 2.4L:
G4KC (MPI), G4KE (GDI)
Displacement 2.4L:
2359 cc
Bore Stroke 2.4L:
88.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Compression Ratio 2.4L:
9.5:1 (MPI), 11.0:1 (GDI)
Horsepower 2.4L:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm (MPI), 190 hp @ 6300 rpm (GDI)
Torque 2.4L:
169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (MPI), 181 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (GDI)
Fuel Delivery 2.0L Gdi:
Gasoline Direct Injection
Fuel Delivery Mpi:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Manual Gearbox:
6-speed Manual (M6CF3-1)
Automatic Gearbox:
6-speed Automatic (A6MF1)
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with adaptive learning
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W/85 (Kia Genuine Manual Transmission Oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV
Length:
4530 mm (178.3 in)
Height:
1435 mm (56.5 in)
Length:
4340 mm (170.9 in)
Height:
1470 mm (57.9 in)
Length:
4480 mm (176.4 in)
Height:
1395 mm (54.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2650 mm (104.3 in)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
415 L (14.6 cu ft)
Hatch Volume:
524 L (18.5 cu ft) (to cargo cover), 978 L (34.5 cu ft) (seats folded)
Curb Weight Min:
1340 kg (2954 lbs) (2.0L Manual Sedan)
Curb Weight Max:
1488 kg (3280 lbs) (2.4L Automatic Koup)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1900 kg (4189 lbs) (varies by model)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (2011 Forte Sedan)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (2011 Forte Sedan)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Esc:
Standard (Electronic Stability Control)
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control System)
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain Airbags (6 total)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional USB port, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on higher trims.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher. Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 (2.0L MPI/GDI), SAE 5W-30 (2.4L MPI/GDI)
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Part Number 2.0L:
26300-35056 (approximate, verify with VIN)
Oil Filter Part Number 2.4L:
26300-3C100 (approximate, verify with VIN)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology), Pre-diluted 50/50 mix with distilled water. Kia Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
4.3 L (4.5 US qt)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
4.3 L (4.5 US qt)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 L (7.4 US qt) (varies slightly by engine)
Engine Knock Sensor:
Some reports of false knock sensor codes, potentially due to sensor or wiring issues.
Theta Ii Piston Wear:
While more prevalent in later generations and other Hyundai/Kia models, early signs of excessive oil consumption or engine knock related to piston ring wear can occur and should be monitored.
Evaporative Emission Control System:
P0440/P0455 DTCs (EVAP leaks) can be caused by loose fuel cap, faulty purge valve, or vent solenoid.
Kia Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, known for its value-oriented vehicles and growing global presence. Has transitioned from budget brand to design-focused and technologically advanced.
Forte Generation:
First Generation (2008-2013, worldwide designation Cerato/Forte/Spectra).
2011 Updates:
Facelift for the 2011 model year, introducing updated styling, revised powertrains (including direct injection options for GDI engines), and improved fuel efficiency.
Assembly Locations:
Hwasung, South Korea; Gwangmyeong, South Korea
