2019 Kia Forte
Should You Buy a 2019 Kia Forte?
The 2019 Kia Forte is a compact sedan that offers a blend of practicality and efficiency, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. With a starting MSRP of $21,990, it features a 2.0L I4 engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission. The Forte boasts an impressive combined fuel economy of 34 MPG, making it an ideal choice for daily commuters looking to save on fuel costs. Despite its affordability, the Forte does not skimp on comfort, offering seating for five and a range of modern features that enhance the driving experience.
However, potential buyers should be aware of some concerns reflected in NHTSA complaint data. With 197 total complaints, including 19 crash incidents and 3 fire incidents, the most frequently reported issues relate to the powertrain and engine, particularly within the first 20,000 miles. Despite these concerns, the Forte maintains a strong reliability score of 91/100, indicating that many owners have had positive experiences with the vehicle overall.
The 2019 Kia Forte is best suited for budget-conscious individuals or small families seeking a reliable and efficient daily commuter vehicle.
Strengths
- +Excellent fuel economy at 34 MPG combined
- +Affordable starting MSRP of $21,990
- +Spacious interior with comfortable seating for five
- +Strong reliability score of 91/100
- +Modern technology features for enhanced driving experience
Weaknesses
- -Reported issues with powertrain and engine components
- -Some complaints related to crash incidents
- -Limited performance compared to sportier competitors
- -Basic interior materials may feel less premium
- -Resale value may not hold as well as some rivals
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2019 Kia Forte has a notable number of complaints, particularly regarding the powertrain and engine, with 44 and 29 complaints respectively. While there are no deaths reported, the presence of 19 crash incidents and 3 fire incidents raises some caution for potential buyers. However, the vehicle's reliability score of 91/100 suggests that many owners have had satisfactory experiences, and no significant NHTSA complaints on record indicate widespread issues.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 2 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Automatic (variable gear ratios)
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 34
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 182.7 in
- Width
- 70.9 in
- Height
- 56.7 in
- Wheelbase
- 106.3 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,762 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –