Under the Hood
The Forte lineup is anchored by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 156 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque, an 18-horse improvement over the Spectra's 2.0 liter. Only the SX gets the 2.4-liter four, which generates 173 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. Both engines use a double overhead cam design and continuously variable valve trains to maximize power and economy. The larger 2.4-liter powerplant posts 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway mileage figures with the standard 6-speed manual and 23/31 mpg when outfitted with an optional automatic.
LX and EX versions are delivered with 5-speed manuals as standard fare. Four-speed automatics are available as an option for those who prefer two pedals. EX-trimmed Fortes with the economy package feature a 5-speed automatic. The SX receives Kia's first-ever 6-speed manual or an optional 5-speed automatic with Sportmatic shifting.
See also:
In case of an emergency while driving
If the engine stalls at a crossroad
or crossing
If the engine stalls at a crossroad or
crossing, set the shift lever in the N
(Neutral) position and then push the
vehicle to a safe place.
If you ...
LUXURIOUS CLASS-EXCLUSIVE FEATURES
Upgrading to the Premium Package (as with our test car) adds items like wood
interior trim, heated rear seats, a driver’s memory seat with 4-way
adjustability, and class-exclusive features like ...
A COMFORTABLE AND SOFT RIDE (TOO SOFT)
Behind the wheel of the new Optima it’s easy to point out several more faults
– although there are certainly some positive aspects to the driving experience
as well.
On the down-size, the ca ...