Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2014 Kia Forte EX. And you must know these are the new Chevrolet’s. Lower cost, better fuel economy and cheaper to own and operate generally.
Chevy was one of the inexpensive cars of the past, but the new kids on the block come from Korea. Common sense has begun to be in Vogue as the world has slipped back into the pit of poverty reminiscent of the Great Depression of the 1930s. The best indication is the economy where the real unemployment is close to that economic disaster of 80 years ago.
So, the point is that ‘smart’ people are beginning to see the benefit of dumping that BMW and getting into a car at half the price and put the rest into ‘Assets’. . . like a house or a new business venture. Shed the toys and other Liabilities. They are anchor’s that tie you to that lousy job instead of following your dream of your own business or that house for the family. Smart folks will shake off that cultural pressure to ‘look’ successful instead of actually being successful.
Ok, so it’s father’s day and I’m talking to my kids – so you know I’m giving you fatherly advice.
At lunch yesterday I had a very similar discussion where four ideas were considered for possible new businesses. And I believe this will be the Phoenix rising from the ashes and on those wings, American Eagles will rise.
General Information: It is assembled in Korea. Classification is Midsize. Cars from Kia: Cadenza, Forte, Forte Koup, Optima, Optima Hybrid, Rio, Rio5, Sedona, Sorento, Soul and Sportage.
Opinion and Observation
CHP – I have said in the past that you need to slow down and avoid the “Revenue” mission our government is hard at work. I’ve implied that if law enforcement is to be respected those individuals must think for themselves and apply the “spirit” of the law and not the “letter” of the law, that any robot can apply.
Recently I was admittedly traveling too fast while passing several cars who were napping. I know better and admitted my sin to the officer.
Anyway, I couldn’t find proof of insurance and when asked which company I was with I replied Farmers. Long story – short – I was given a fix it ticket for not having proof of insurance. He suggested I slow down and thanked me for admitting I was going way too fast. Now I don’t know about you but I appreciate those reminders long after.
Flashback: A similar thing happened long ago while I was traveling back to the air base in San Diego. A CHP pulled alongside on an otherwise traffic free freeway that was recently built. Well, I was listening to music and simply enjoying the drive in my shiny 1957 Chevrolet hard top with all the windows down. It was a balmy summer eve, and when I realized someone was looking at me, I looked over to the right, out the passenger window at the Black and White pacing me like we were flying in formation. We made eye contact and he motioned with his hand, up and down, to signal that I should slow down. I’ve never forgotten that image and it has slowed me down more than any citation ever received.
Handling & Performance:
Nicely responsive and the steering is great with just enough road feel.
Styling:
There is no doubt this is a nice looking sedan but I have a problem with small print on instruments, and other electronic displays. I suspect Kia is looking at younger market who don’t need glasses to read the dials. Either that or the designers and still in their teens.
Fit and Finish:
Great in this price range.
Cost:
Outstanding value.
Conveniences and comfort:
The seating is comfortable, and generally it is quiet with only occasional road noise. The Bluetooth set up and Nav system settings were easy. The driver seat was heated and cooled and although it was an option not noted here. It is a part of the premium package for $2,600. I can live without nearly all such features. I wish it were a cafeteria plan, however, because I would opt for the push button start with the smart key. That I like. Nav is not standard either, but part of the EX Technology package that is another $2,300 and none of which I need. I have Nav on my iPhone as so many do or I could buy a Garmen portable Nav that is far cheaper.
Consumer Recommendation:
Review your car / transmission options and you will see how much you can get for the money while the prices are so reasonable from Korea.
Recognized Competition:
Kia Forte EX $19,000, Chevrolet Cruze LS $18,000, Dodge Dart $18,000, Ford Focus SE $19,000, Honda Civic sedan $23,000, Hyundai Elantra $20,000, Mazda 3 $20,000, Nissan Sentra $20,000, Subaru Impreza 4-door $20,000, Toyota Corolla $18,000, VW Beetle 2.5L $20,000, VW Golf 2.5L $18,000.
Good News:
Comfy seats, nice handling and responsive acceleration, all the important safety features standard. Well priced and also decent fuel economy.
Bad News:
None noted.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 173 hp inline 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed auto trans., 16” alloy wheels, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, front side and side curtain airbags, LATCH child anchor system, traction control, stability control with stability management, hill start assist control, tire pressure monitor, air conditioning, power windwos and locks, audio with CD/MP3 and Sirius/xm Satelite, bluetooth technology, 60/40 split folding rear seats, remote keyless entry, cruise control, tilt and telescopic column, leather wrapped wheel (with audio, phone, cruise controls) and shift knob, auto headlights, fog lights power folding mirrors with turn signal indicator.
Gas Stats:
$3.85/ Gal avg. June 14, 2013
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
24 City and 36 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $19,400
