2014 Kia Forte review

1. A variety of engine and body options 

The 2014 Kia Forte offers a few key options: the LX trim sports a 1.8L, four-cylinder engine with multi-point injections, while the EX carries a 2.0L, four-cylinder engine with direct injection. The 2014 Forte also comes in the classic four-door sedan style, the two-door Koup, and a five-door hatchback. Then, the LX offers a six-speed manual or optional automatic transmission. This level of variety means there’s something out there for you. What’s more, the 2014 Forte boasts precise steering and steady handling, regardless of body and engine.  

2. EX trim boosts comfort  

After the engine and body options come the trims. Look to the EX trim for a sliding armrest, rear-seat center armrest with cup holders, and leather-wrapped steering wheel for additional comfort. Other options on the EX include a 10-way power driver’s memory seat, a ventilated driver’s seat and heating on all seats, a sunroof, and push-button start. Both the LX and EX trims have 42.2 inches of legroom in the front, with a total cabin volume of 96.2 cu-ft.      

3. Good infotainment suite  

The LX and EX trims on the 2014 Kia Forte have an infotainment touchscreen with AM/FM radio, CD player, aux and USB ports, steering-wheel-mounted audio control buttons, and Bluetooth^® connectivity for calls and audio streaming. As well, both trims have the same four-speaker stereo system, except that the EX amps up the audio with two tweeters. There's no smartphone app integration but the EX has Kia’s UVO service.  

4. Decent power and fuel economy 

Both engines on the 2014 Kia Forte get identical fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated economy of 24 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined for manual models.

The two engine types have notable daylight between them on horsepower: the 1.8L clocks in at 148 horsepower, while the 2.0L pumps it up to 173 horsepower. That distinction may not change much for city dwellers, but could make the EX more interesting for highway commuters.    

5. Handsome looks, inside and out 

The 2014 Kia Forte has sophisticated good looks. On the outside, the Koup two-door is clearly the sportier of the Forte family — but don’t let the word “sedan” throw you for a loop. Even the four-door Forte is a streamlined vehicle with a wide stance and elegant profile. The uncluttered center console and instrument panel add a less-is-more feel to the cabin. The front bucket seats with an optional sliding armrest and 60/40 split-folding rear seats show Kia thought hard about delivering comfort and versatility in an attractive package.