Compact cars often get the short end of the stick when it comes to desirable features and cool, innovative technology. This is not the case for the 2017 Kia Forte. Kia has integrated some of the most desirable tech available—all while keeping the price affordable. Better yet, they brought back the hatchback option for 2017.
Vehicle Highlights
Vehicle Class
Compact sedan
MSRP
Starting at $16,600
MPG
Up to 29 city / 38 highway
Fuel Type
Regular unleaded
(13.2 gal capacity)
Seating
5
Drivetrain
FWD
Horsepower
Up to 164 HP
Towing Capacity
N/A
Engine Options
Body types
& Trim Options
LX Manual
LX Automatic
S
EX
Awards & Rankings
- Highest ranked compact car in initial quality
- IIHS top safety pick+ award
- NHTSA overall 5-star crash safety rating
Dimensions
180″ L x 70″ W x 56″ H
Features & Specs
Interior
- Aux inputs
- Bluetooth
- Fold flat rear seats
- Rear bench seats
- Stability control
- Steering wheel audio and cruise controls
- Tire pressure warning
- Trip computer
- Upgraded interior materials
- USB inputs
Exterior
- Updated LED detailing
- Reintroduction of hatchback
- Dynamic bending light tech (angles headlights toward corners at night)
- Updated grille
Safety
- 4-wheel ABS
- 4-wheel disc brakes
- Brake assist
- Driver airbag
- Electronic stability control
- Front head airbag
- Front side airbag
- Passenger airbag
- Rear head airbag
Optional
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Forward collision warning
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Lane change warning/assist
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Power sunroof
- Smart trunk
- Push-button start
Is the 2017 Kia Forte right for you?
Pros
- Quite roomy for a compact vehicle
- Tons of desired standard features and even more optional features
- User-friendly controls
- Easy to understand touchscreen interface
- Better-than-average warranty coverage (compared to the segment)
Cons
- EX model has less-than-desirable fuel economy
- Ride has been described as stiff