Review and Test Drive: 2019 Kia Forte EX
Known as the K3 in its home market of South Korea and the Forte K3 in China, the Kia Forte made its debut at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show after a concept in coupe form appeared at the New York International Auto Show the previous year.
The Forte is an inexpensive (base price $17,790) vehicle whose looks belie the low price tag. A rather striking Currant Red Forte EX arrived at our offices looking very much like the color of the cranberries we were just about to enjoy for Thanksgiving, ready for our inspection.
The EX, which adds $3,210 to the base price, comes with almost every option known to man, ranging from keyless start, heated and ventilated leather seats, a ten-way power driver’s seat, USB charging ports, radar cruise control, and a Harman/Kardon sound system.
It also comes with a plethora of driver-assistance technologies including blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic collision warning, forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, and parking distance control.
DRIVING THE 2019 KIA FORTE EX
Once inside, it’s evident that Kia as high hopes as the build quality is very good as is the overall quality of materials. Everything looks and feels very well put together.
The central display rises above the center stack in a BMW-esque formation and features an 8” screen. It supports Apple CarPlay, which is what we used most of the time during the Forte’s stay with us, as well as Android Auto. Kia’s navi was easy to use as well but we preferred Apple Maps in CarPlay.
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