2010 Kia Forte SX

Kia’s stylish new compact sedan is an ALV super value

By Nina Russin

2010 Kia Forte

Kia and I have history together. When the Korean automaker began selling cars in North America fifteen years ago, I was one of the journalists who took an active interest. Driving the Forte brings back memories of the Sephia: Kia’s first North American model.

The Sephia couldn’t match the build quality of comparable Toyota and Honda sedans. What Kia offered was value: buyers who would otherwise be forced to buy a used car could afford a Sephia.

Over time Kia raised its internal bar, improving fit and finish across the model line-up. By the end of the 1990s, the automaker led its competitive segments in terms of standard safety, while maintaining its value pricing strategy.

Opening a North American design studio gave Kia the ability to respond quickly to styling trends. This year, a brand new production facility in Georgia gives Kia a similar footprint in North America to its Asian and European competitors.

The 2010 Forte replaces the compact Kia Spectra. Kia rolled out the first model, the Forte sedan, last spring. The two-door Forte Koup rolls into dealerships this Fall. So far, Kia hasn’t announced plans to build a five-door model. But considering the success of the Spectra5, it would be surprising if a hatchback isn’t in the works. Read the rest of this entry »