2012 Kia Forte

MSRP Range:
$15,200 - $19,100
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User Rating: 0 Reviews | Write a Review
Fuel Economy: 23/32 mpg

Select a Trim below for more detailed vehicle information

2012 Kia Forte Trims	MSRP	Fuel	Engine
4dr Sdn Man LX	$15,200	25 / 34 mpg	Gas I4 2.0L/122
4dr Sdn Auto LX	$16,200	26 / 36 mpg	Gas I4 2.0L/122
4dr Sdn Auto EX	$17,600	26 / 36 mpg	Gas I4 2.0L/122
4dr Sdn Auto SX	$19,100	23 / 32 mpg	Gas I4 2.4L/144

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The Forte comes in three different body styles--Forte sedan, Forte Koup (2-door coupe) and Forte 5-door (hatchback)--as well as three different trims: LX, EX and SX. Forte sedans are the only body style to be offered in all three body styles, while Forte Koup and Forte 5-door models can be had only in EX or SX trim. ...more

All Forte models are powered by either a 156-horsepower, 2.0L 4-cylinder engine or by a 173-hp, 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. Both engines have continuously variable valve timing to aid in responsiveness and fuel economy, and both can now be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. LX models come with the manual standard and automatic available, while all EX models come with the automatic transmission. Sporty SX models can be had with either transmission.

Fuel economy is good in the Forte regardless of which model, but Fortes optioned with the Fuel Economy Package get low-rolling-resistance silica tires along with aerodynamic enhancements to yield EPA ratings of 27 mpg city, 37 highway.

With the back seats up in position, there's a respectable 14.7 cubic feet of space in the Forte sedan, but the Forte 5-door offers 19.4 cubic feet. With more noise insulation than is typical in this class, the Forte feels quiet and refined inside at anything but full throttle. Leather upholstery and heated seats are available on the SX, also helping to bring an upscale feel.

Kia has paid extra attention to the Forte's ride and handling, combining a very stiff body with a conventional but well-tuned small-car setup, with MacPherson struts in front and a torsion bar in back; most Forte models come with an engine-speed-sensitive hydraulic power-steering system, but EX models with the Fuel Economy Package come with electric power steering to help increase efficiency. SX models, in addition to the more powerful engine, get a performance-tuned suspension along with upgraded brakes.

All Forte models include a 4-speaker sound system with Sirius Satellite Radio capability and a 3-month subscription. Other standard features include Bluetooth connectivity with steering-wheel controls, and a USB connector. SX models also get expanded equipment, including larger alloy wheels, fog lamps, sport seats, leather steering-wheel and shift-knob trim, a special Supervision gauge cluster and tilt/telescopic steering adjustment.

Kia has loaded the Forte with safety features: front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side-curtain bags, active front headrests, electronic stability control and 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes are all standard.

2012 Kia Forte Model Changes

For 2012, the Kia Forte lineup returns for with only minor trim changes.

2012 Kia Forte Value

According to Kia, the Forte sedan has one of the roomiest interiors in its class--as well as one of the best-equipped cabins. Kia's sound system is claimed to be one of the most advanced sound systems available which includes speed-dependent volume compensation to automatically increase the volume at higher speeds. The Forte is also covered by one of the most extensive warranties in the business, which includes ten years or 100,000 miles on powertrain components, five years or 60,000 miles limited warranty on the entire vehicle and five years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance.

2012 Kia Forte Strengths

Fuel economy; standard Bluetooth connectivity; safety features; extensive warranty Hide

2012 Kia Forte 5-Door Hatchback Review
With fewer hatchbacks than sedans available in the compact segment, Kia's Forte 5-Door should have room to shine. But does it?...
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2012 Kia Sportage SX Review
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2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Review
With an identical powertrain to the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Kia's Optima Hybrid doesn't get it's own unique look. And with a style as attractive as the Optima, it's probably best not to mess with a good thing....
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2011 Kia Forte EX Review
One of the newer rivals in the compact segment, the Forte has been improved with the addition of a 6-speed transmission. Unfortunately it's still somewhat lethargic and nothing has been done to improve the drab interior....
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Certain specifications, prices and equipment data have been provided under license from Chrome Systems, a DealerTrack company (�Chrome�). � 2011 Chrome Systems, a DealerTrack company. All Rights Reserved. This information is supplied for personal use only and may not be used for any commercial purpose whatsoever without the express written consent of Chrome. Chrome makes no guarantee or warranty, either express or implied, including without limitation any warranty of merchantability or fitness for particular purpose, with respect to the data presented here. All specifications, prices and equipment are subject to change without notice.

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Auto Insurance

2012 Kia Forte

$15,200 - $19,100

Select a Trim below for more detailed vehicle information

4dr Sdn Man LX

4dr Sdn Auto LX

4dr Sdn Auto EX

4dr Sdn Auto SX

New Car Finder

View all Kia Reviews Recent Kia Reviews

2012 Kia Forte Model Changes

2012 Kia Forte Value

2012 Kia Forte Strengths