2013 Kia Forte 3.8 SE Dual DVD

The Kia Forte is a compact car available as a four-door sedan, four-door hatchback or two-door coupe that Kia calls the Koup. In reviews, our editors have praised the Kia Forte's tidy styling, noting that its Civic-like face and Lexus IS-style taillights are derivative but nonetheless sure to grab their share of attention. We've also praised this Kia's clean and pleasant cabin layout., , The sedan is available in LX, EX and SX trims, while the hatchback and coupe are EX and SX only. The LX and EX come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes a healthy 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the hatchback, which comes with a six-speed automatic. The latter is an option on all models. The SX comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 173 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque, paired to either a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic., , The Forte comes standard with stability control, Bluetooth, satellite radio and a CD stereo with auxiliary/USB audio jacks. Upgrading to the EX model adds alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and the availability of leather trim and heated seats. The Forte coupe features a firmer suspension, a retuned exhaust and sport seats, while the EX sedan and hatch are eligible for a Fuel Economy package that adds low-rolling-resistance tires, aerodynamic enhancements and electric power steering., , The sportier SX trim features the larger engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, firmer suspension tuning (sedan) and various interior upgrades. The SX coupe gets a further suspension retune and blinking lights in its speakers. Heated seats and a sunroof are optional on the SX., , The driving experience largely depends on which Forte version you're in. The LX and EX are standard economy car fare -- lots of body roll, numb steering and a comfortable ride. The SX -- the coupe in particular -- is a completely different story. It's still not as sporting as a Honda Civic Si, but the SX's overall driving dynamics put it at the head of the sub-$20,000 class.