WE LIKE Sharp interior and exterior design
WE DON’T LIKE Underwhelming CVT, lazy handling
The redesigned Kia Forte improved its looks inside and out, and like many Kia models, it comes loaded with lots of features at a reasonable price.
Most judges noted the Forte’s crisper exterior, which Angus MacKenzie described as “mature and upscale design, cleverly riffing on established Kia design cues without looking like a cookie-cutter car.”
Inside, many liked the cool circular air vents, which Frank Markus described as “Mercedes-Benz-like.” Mark Rechtin compared the interior to “a budget Audi A4.” The little shelf located under the temperature controls houses the optional wireless charging pad and is a clever touch. It’s nice to see automakers designate a space for your phone.
Our EX Launch Edition tester packed premium features such as perforated leatherette seating, heated and cooled front seats, adaptive cruise control, a host of driver-assist features, LED headlights, a Harman Kardon audio system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That’s good value for $26,415.
Unfortunately, it all ends with one glaring issue: the transmission. Judges’ notes on the new CVT are not kind, and for good reason. It’s harsh, loud, and lackluster. Said MacKenzie: “The CVT transmission sucks the life out of the powertrain.” Further ruining your commute is a stiffly sprung suspension, which jostles and bashes you relentlessly over even the most minor imperfections.
That punishing ride would be forgivable if the car lived up to its sporty vibe. But it has ho-hum handling dynamics. “It’s so weird,” Rechtin said. “Kia is supposed to be the youthful, sporty brand, but its powertrain and suspension are mediocre and do not match the brand’s image.”
READ ABOUT 2019 SUV OF THE YEAR CONTENDERS:
- BMW X2
- BMW X3
- BMW X4
- Cadillac XT4
- Ford EcoSport
- Ford Edge
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Infiniti QX50
- Jaguar E-Pace
- Jeep Cherokee
- Lexus RX L
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
- Nissan Kicks
- Subaru Ascent
- Toyota RAV4
READ ABOUT 2019 CAR OF THE YEAR CONTENDERS:
- Ford Mustang
- Hyundai Accent
- Hyundai Elantra
- Honda Clarity
- Lexus LS
- Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
- Nissan Altima
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback
- Volkswagen Jetta
| 2019 Kia Forte EX | |
| Base Price/As tested | $22,885/$26,415 |
| Power (SAE net) | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm |
| Torque (SAE net) | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
| Accel, 0-60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Quarter-mile | 16.7 sec @ 85.4 mph |
| Braking, 60-0 mph | 123 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.86 g (avg) |
| MT Figure Eight | 27.7 sec @ 0.61 g (avg) |
| EPA City/Hwy/Comb | 30/40/34 mpg |
| Vehicle Layout | Front-engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan |
| Engine/Transmission | 2.0L Atkinson-cycle DOHC 16-valve I-4/Cont variable auto |
| Curb Weight (F/R Dist) | 2,933 lb (61/39%) |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in |
| Length x Width x Height | 182.7 x 70.9 x 56.5 in |
| Energy Cons, City/Hwy | 112/84 kW-hrs/100 miles |
| CO2 Emissions, Comb | 0.57 lb/mile |
The post Kia Forte: 2019 Motor Trend Car of the Year Contender appeared first on Motor Trend.
Agya Club Indonesia
