2015 Kia Forte Review

Overview

The 2015 Kia Forte (not to be confused with the smaller Forte Koup, or the larger Forte5 Hatchback) is an entry-level sedan designed for maximum comfort at a minimal price. The MSRP starts at $15,890 for the basic LX with manual transmission, rising to $17,490 if you'd prefer automatic and $19,390 for the deluxe EX version of the vehicle. All of these prices are before any discounts your dealer in Fair Lawn, NJ is currently offering.

Exterior Features

As an entry-level vehicle, there are only so many features that Kia was willing to install. Still, they've done quite a lot within the available pricing range, including:

• Illuminated door handle pockets on the EX model
• Heated power mirrors, colored to match the body, with LED turn signals mounted into them as a standard feature on the EX and an option on the LX
• Power folding mirrors on the EX model
• Optional perimeter approach lighting and a powered sunroof
• Solar control glass as a standard component on all models
• Automatic lighting control, front fog lights, and the choice for high-intensity beams on the EX
  

Interior Features

The interior of the vehicle is likewise straightforward, built around basic comforts and offering the choice for many other features. Inside the 2015 Forte, Fair Lawn, NJ residents will find:

• A highly functional four-speaker audio system, with Kia's standard AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite/Bluetooth/USB connectivity setup
• Two additional tweeter speakers in the doors, optional on the LX and standard on the EX, which improve the overall audio system
• Multiple controls mounted into the steering wheel, including cruise control, audio, and hands-free phone buttons
  

In addition to those features, the Forte also offers options like:

• Access to Kia's UVO eServices Infotainment system, which links with compatible devices (most phones, etc.) to give better control of your calls and music
• A rear camera display on the touchscreen panel, allowing for better visibility while backing up the vehicle
• A navigation system, only available on the EX model, which simultaneously adds HD radio and SiriusXM traffic data
• A supervision system, with an additional 4.2-inch display, that explains more about the vehicle's current status

Mechanical Features

The LX version of the 2015 Forte runs on a 1.8L, four-cylinder engine. When running automatic transmission, it can achieve a maximum of 145 horsepower and a fuel economy of 26/39. The factory-installed tank is a 13.2 gallon setup intended to hold regular unleaded, giving the LX an estimated minimum range of 343.2 miles throughout Fair Lawn, NJ.

The EX version of the vehicle upgrades the engine to a 2.0L setup, with an improved 173 horsepower helping to provide a driving experience normally associated with sport cars instead of entry-level sedans. The fuel economy is a little bit lower at 25/36, but still excellent overall. The EX offers an estimated minimum range of 330 miles, which isn't significantly lower than what the LX provides.

Final Thoughts

The 2015 Kia Forte is an outstanding entry-level feature, offering a number of features and options that are rarely available on a vehicle in this price range - without any big drawbacks. That alone makes it worth a close look, though you should consider getting the EX version from your local Kia dealer if you can afford it. While slightly less efficient, it still retains enough fuel economy to be a practical choice for the Fair Lawn, NJ area. More importantly, however, the additional features of the EX make it a much more enjoyable ride.
 
Either way, the Kia Forte is a great choice for any family looking to get a comfortable, functional, and affordable family vehicle, and we give it a 5/5.

Come in and schedule your test drive of the new 2015 Kia Forte today!