2019 Kia Forte S Automatic

2019 Kia Forte S Automatic

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:

This is the 2019 Kia Forte5. Back to basics and you know what, it brings back memories of being in college and my transportation was an ‘old’ VW Bug. Some of my classmates took the bus or walked. Guess I was fortunate – not sure it would have made a difference. But it also was not a matter of being humbled NOT to have a car. It simply never entered my mind, which by the way, was being expanded for the experience.

Anyway, basic is not only a good thing it is necessary when the circumstances dictate economy over plenty. Moreover, those are some of the happiest days of our lives and we’re wise to embrace those times joyfully. 

General Information:

It is assembled in Pesqueria, Mexico; Parts – US/Canadian 3%, Korea 43%, Mexico 54%; Engine and transmission – Mexico; Classification isMidsize. Cars from Kia: Cadenza, Forte, K900, Niro, Optima, Rio, Rio 5-door, Sedona, Sorento, Soul, Sportage and Stinger.

Observation:

Have you ever noticed when you see paint failure on a car it is more often than not a Honda? I think they need to get better painting their cars.
 
I have also noticed it on Pick up trucks made by Chevrolet and Dodge but then they are work trucks and often abused.

Handling & Performance:

I’m always impressed with how much power car makers can get out of 2 liters. This one is normally aspirated and no Turbo, but I was satisfied with its performance. Handling is great with a little more of a solid ride than I like. You get more road noise and feel than with heavier softer rides. Around town it is easy entry and easy exit and easy to maneuver.

Styling:

Nice looking clean lines and even a little futuristic look.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

It is amazing, to me, to know how great a car can be owned for around $20,000.

Conveniences and comfort:

The ride is very comfy despite the fact it is only 20 grand. I recently tested a luxury Lexus that wasn’t as comfortable as this Forte.

Consumer Recommendations:

We are smart when we balance our lives based on the times. When it comes to cars SOMEtimes we’re in need of transportation first and other times we’re in need of Luxury. And even other times we may need a large van to carry our motorized wheel chair. Friend Richard reminds me to “Ignore yourself”, and that means that we simply need to deal with the place we’re in at the moment.

Recognized Competition:

Good News:

Affordable new car, 5-seat convenience, good features for safe driving.

Bad News:

Noticeable road feel that some will call a rough ride

Standard Equipment:

2.0 4-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, drive mode select, 17” allow wheels, front side and side curtain airbags, LATCH system, ABS braking system, traction & stability controls, vehicle stability management, hill start assist, tire pressure monitor, climate control, power windows and locks, AM/FM/MP3 audio with 8” touchscreen, rear view camera, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, SIRIUS XM , USB / auxiliary input jack and 12 Volt outlet, Bluetooth, 60/40 split folding rear seats, remote keyless entry, leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel (with controls for Bluetooth/Audio and Cruise), driver attention warning, forward collision avoidance and warning, lane departure warning, land keeping assist.

Gas Stats:

$3.09-Gal avg. January 3, 2019

www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

30 City and 40 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $ 20,190.