The Weekend Drive - 2010 KIA Forte sedan

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2010 KIA Forte - "entry level" gets a promotion

As applied to cars, "entry level" means the bottom rung of styling, power and comfort. The compromises were so great that anyone behind that wheel wanted to move up, as quickly as possible. With the arrival of the all-new 2010 KIA Forte - entry level just got a promotion. For the money, KIA once again delivers a stylish, comfortable and fun entry level car in the same package.

I like nothing more than wide open highway in front of me, so for this test I added over 600-miles to the clock - including urban and highway driving. When it comes to evaluating a new model vehicle, I'm no pushover. But I'm hard-pressed to find anything to complain about on the new Kia Forte. The Forte replaces the Spectra sedan, itself nice but truly entry-level. Forte raises the bar, inside the cabin and on the road, it's a real delight to drive. It's responsive and sporty, but not punishing or fatiguing. It's not trying to be "European" or something it's not - instead it's just an honest small sedan that looks and drives terrific. Nicely done indeed.

It comes in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX) which translates to "good, better, best." We tested the SX - the nicer of the three with the 173-hp 2.4-liter engine paired to a silky-smooth 5-speed automatic transmission. The SX is the best trim level and has a sport tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and larger front brakes along with a black interior trimmed in red stitching. The LX and EX have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 156-hp - still plenty of power.

Rivals are many - all the cookie-cutter entry level econo-boxes - which Forte rises above. Kia Forte prices start at $13,695 for the base 2.0-liter model. Our fully-equipped 2.4-liter SX-test model was priced at $20,490. Best news, Forte sips the fuel - up to 34-mpg on most models and up to 36-mpg with the optional fuel economy package. - by Vince Bodiford
KIA Official Site

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Always be a safe and courteous driver. Buckle everyone up, never drive impaired, and obey all motor vehicle laws. Vehicles featured are tested by a professional driver in a controlled environment, never attempt any maneuver described and never exceed your own driving ability. Opinions expressed are those of The Weekend Drive®. In producing our road tests, we may attend manufacturer-sponsored events, which selected members of the motoring press are also invited, and we recieve no compensation from any vehicle manufacturer. Warranties, miles per gallon estimates, and other technical information is provided by vehicle manufacturers and is deemed reliable upon release date. The Weekend Drive® is not a dealer or broker of vehicles and makes no offer to sell or lease motor vehicles. Trademarks and trade names used are the property of their respective owners, used by permission.

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