Compact cars are sought after by those who are
looking for excellent value, easy daily drive factor, and longstanding
reliability. One element that we have really tried to stay focused on during
the auto development process value: over the last decade, we have seen
consumers say that the entry-level pricing point is most important to them, and
that the available features in tech with low trim levels make all the
difference in the world. This week we had an added dose of reassurance and
bragging rights: the 2019 Forte
has snagged up the honors from the MotorWeek Driver's Choice
Award for “Best Small Car.”
With the Forte,
we completed the task of taking an already excellent small car approach, and
then added more space, technology, and styling to pull off the end result. This
is a great looking and highly affordable car, that we just happen to fully
believe is the most fun daily driver in its size class. The editors of MotorWeek
conduct more than 150 car and truck reviews every year, evaluating
vehicles regarding their features, pricing, performance, accommodations, fuel
economy, reliability, and resale. The Forte was all-new for 2019, and it was
built with the goal of it becoming the best in its class. The efforts of the
entire team really stand out when a body of respected experts like this dole
out the very top rating.
The Drivers' Choice Award winners are showcased on
Motorweek.org, and will appear on a special episode scheduled to
be aired on public television stations beginning February 9, and on cable's
Motor Trend Network starting February 19. Edmunds.com is another
online source that many turn to frequently for goods and information regarding
the driving experience of new models, and when it came to the Forte,
they had plenty good to say. Plenty of features for the money, strong fuel
economy estimates, and our generous Kia warranty coverage were at the top of
the list for what they enjoyed while taking a close-up look.
You'll love the way in which the long hood and
fastback-style sloping roofline is a bit reminiscent of what you see on the
souped-up and aggressive Stinger sedan. The base trim level includes dual-zone
air conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen tech interface, Apple CarPlay and Android
Auto smartphone integration, and top-notch safety aids like automatic emergency
braking and lane keeping assist. You'll want to be sure to investigate the EX
trim: this is where you get premium touches on the Forte
such as faux leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a
hands-free trunk.
The EX Launch Edition package adds 17-inch wheels,
a sunroof, a rear decklid spoiler, LED headlights, an auto-dimming rearview
mirror, a larger gauge cluster display, and an amazing 8-speaker Harman Kardon
audio system with HD radio. The Edmunds staff claimed that after
a test drive, the seats are “soft and cushioned in all the right places with
strong lateral support,” and the climate controls pleasantly mirror the pricier
Stinger's design. We are excited to receive another award for excellence
scooped up by the Forte,
and look forward to a year full of surprises, achievements, and fulfilling the
dreams of many customers on the search for their perfect new ride!