I recently had the opportunity to test drive the 2015 Kia Forte 5-Door SX, and I, like my children, was beyond excited to get on the road for a joy ride to San Antonio, TX! A few years ago, we were properly introduced to the Kia family when we were able to drive the 2013 Kia Soul. I was happy to get inside a different model this year.
When the Kia Forte pulled up in the driveway, the hatchback design caught my eye. I couldn’t wait to get inside and go for a ride!
The Forte5 is offered in two trim levels, EX and SX, with two distinct engine choices. The Forte5 packs a punch, with the SX’s powerful 1.6-liter GDI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The SX comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and offers an available 6-speed automatic featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The Forte5 also offers the amenities and technology I want to see: The SX has standard 18-inch alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust tips, UVO eServices with rear camera display and LED tail lights. It also has black gloss grille inserts, larger front brakes and alloy sport pedals, which make for a pretty spiffy vehicle!
Both the EX and SX trim levels offer optional HID headlights, navigation system with HD Radio™, sunroof, heated steering wheel, 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat, heated front seats and ventilated driver’s seat, heated rear outboard seats, leather-trimmed seating surfaces, SmartKey with push-button start, electric chromatic rearview mirror and dual-zone automatic climate control.
In all, it was a nice, smooth ride for my family of 5. I do think I’d opt for a larger “family” vehicle for everyday use, but it held the 5 of us comfortably, plus luggage!