Market Position:
Compact sedan/coupe/hatchback aimed at value-conscious buyers, offering a balance of features, fuel efficiency, and modern styling.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes directly with segment leaders like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra (shares platform with Elantra), and Mazda3. The Forte is known for offering a strong feature set for its price point.
Key Features:
Stylish exterior and interior design, user-friendly infotainment system, available upscale features (heated/ventilated seats, navigation), competitive pricing, good fuel economy.
Systems Covered:
Engine (gasoline), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Ignition System, Fuel System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS/ESC), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, HVAC System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), SRS Airbag System, Immobilizer System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Troubleshooting
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, Routine inspections, Component removal and installation, Diagnostic procedures, Repair and overhaul instructions, Wiring diagrams, Technical specifications, Torque specifications, Special tools required, Exploded views, Component testing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Primary Engine 1:
2.0L GDI (Gamma) Inline-4
Horsepower 1:
164 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 1:
150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery 1:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Compression Ratio 1:
13.5:1
Optional Engine 1:
1.6L Turbocharged GDI (Gamma)
Engine Code Optional 1:
G4FJ
Displacement Optional 1:
1591 cc
Horsepower Optional 1:
201 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Optional 1:
195 lb-ft @ 1350-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery Optional 1:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) with Turbocharger
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (for 2.0L), 91 Octane recommended for 1.6T for optimal performance
Standard Transmission 2.0L:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (M6GF2)
Optional Transmission 2.0L:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A6GF1)
Optional Transmission 1.6T:
7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) (D7GF1)
Transmission Features:
Sportmatic Shifting (Automatic), Eco/Normal/Sport modes available on automatic transmissions
Length:
176.5 in (4485 mm) Sedan / 171.5 in (4355 mm) Koup / 170.0 in (4318 mm) 5-door
Height:
56.1 in (1425 mm) Sedan / 55.1 in (1400 mm) Koup / 57.5 in (1460 mm) 5-door
Wheelbase:
106.3 in (2700 mm)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 40.8 in (1036 mm)
Rear Headroom:
Approx. 37.4 in (950 mm)
Front Legroom:
Approx. 42.2 in (1072 mm)
Rear Legroom:
Approx. 35.0 in (889 mm)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
15.0 cu ft (425 L)
Curb Weight Min:
2825 lbs (1281 kg) (2.0L Manual Sedan)
Curb Weight Max:
3148 lbs (1428 kg) (1.6T DCT Sedan)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 Stars (for Sedan models tested)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Good (in most tests, may vary by year/specific test)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Brake Assist System (BAS)
Passive Features:
Dual front airbags, Front side-mounted airbags, Curtain airbags (front and rear), Pretensioner seatbelts, Crumple zones
Infotainment System:
Kia's UVO infotainment system with touchscreen interface (sizes vary by trim, e.g., 4.3-inch, 7-inch, 8-inch)
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM/Satellite Radio, CD/MP3 Player, USB/Auxiliary Input, Bluetooth connectivity (streaming audio and hands-free calling), Optional Navigation, Optional rearview camera
Driver Assistance Features Available:
Rearview camera, Parking assist sensors, Blind-Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCWA), Lane Change Assist (LCA) (availability dependent on trim level)
Connectivity Features:
UVO eServices (subscription-based for some features), Smartphone integration (e.g., Pandora, iHeartRadio via UVO app)
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
26300-35056 (for 2.0L, always verify with VIN)
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles or 48 months, then every 30,000 miles or 24 months thereafter.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
SP-IV (or equivalent SP-IV-RR)
Transmission Fluid Type Dct:
Specific DCT fluid (refer to manual for exact specification)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 0W-20 (for 2.0L GDI)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Known Issues Engine Noise:
Some owners report a 'clicking' or 'ticking' noise from the GDI engines, often attributed to the injectors. This is generally considered normal, but the manual will detail diagnostic steps.
Known Issues Transmission:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or hesitation in automatic transmissions, particularly earlier models. The DCT in the 1.6T can also exhibit specific characteristics that require proper diagnosis.
Known Issues Electrical:
Less common, but issues with infotainment system glitches or sensor failures can occur. The manual provides detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic trees.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, originating from South Korea, has grown significantly in global markets, establishing a reputation for value, reliability, and increasingly, attractive design and technology.
Model Evolution:
The Kia Forte (also known as Kia Cerato in some markets) entered its second generation globally for the 2014 model year. The 2016 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh for this generation, introducing updated styling, features, and in some cases, powertrain enhancements (like the introduction of the 1.6T engine).
Production Years Second Gen:
2014-2018
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Donghee Plant), also potentially other global Kia facilities.
Recognitions Initial Impact:
The second-generation Forte, including the 2016 refresh, generally received positive reviews for its value proposition, styling, and feature content, often praised for punching above its weight class.
Recognitions Specific Awards:
While not typically winning major 'car of the year' awards, the Forte consistently ranked well in value and consumer satisfaction surveys within its segment from automotive publications.
