INTRO: Still turning heads after its introduction last year, the Kia Forte 5-Door hatchback distinguishes itself as the roomier, more versatile sibling in the 2012 Forte family of economical 5-passenger compact vehicles. The Forte 5-Door is offered in trims including EX and the up-rated SX.
FEATURES: The Forte 5-Door boasts 19.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, a 30 percent increase over the Forte Sedan. Standard features are not skimpy either, and include air conditioning; heated power mirrors with built-in turn signals and steering wheel mounted audio controls. Leather upholstery and heated seats are optional in the SX, augmenting the Forte 5-Door's upscale feel.
PERFORMANCE: The Forte 5-Door EX gets the base 156 horsepower, 2-liter inline-4 cylinder engine while the sportier SX receives the 173 horsepower 2.4-liter inline-4. Both models direct power to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY: Kia claims these highest and lowest fuel economy estimates:
WARRANTY: The Forte 5-Door is backed by a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
CLOSING: With the hatchback flexibility of the Forte 5-Door in the affordable Forte roster, Kia extends the appeal of this well-equipped and, spirited compact.