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Archives for October 2018

Compact Value: 2019 Kia Forte Sedan

October 29, 2018 by admin 3 Comments

Kia rolls out its third-generation Forte.

2019 Kia Forte Sedan
Now in its third generation, the 2019 Kia Forte has its sportiest look yet.

Compact cars and all car models, in general, have seen an unprecedented drop in sales over the past decade. Consumers have voted with their wallets, opting for more utility vehicles and pickup trucks instead.

Some manufacturers, such as Ford and Fiat Chrysler, are cutting back on car models, abandoning some segments altogether. Kia, however, isn’t turning its back on value-oriented consumers, especially first-time new car shoppers who can’t quite afford an SUV, but might yet afford a small car.

Notably, Kia’s product line is far more balanced than some other brands, with six sedans and two hatchbacks to consider. You’ll also find a line of people movers, including utility vehicles and a minivan. Furthermore, Kia is represented by five electrified vehicles — two hybrids, two plug-in hybrids, and one electric vehicle. Moving forward, you’ll see more crossovers join Kia’s model line, but likely at no expense to car models.

2019 Kia Forte Sedan

2019 Kia Forte Overview

The third-generation Kia Forte rolls out for the 2019 model year. What’s especially noteworthy about it, is that this is only the 10th model year for Kia’s small sedan. Thus, while many competitors update their cars once every six years, Kia does so in either four or five years. That’s a great way to keep a model name fresh. It also ensures that Kia keeps up with or outlasts the competition.

The 2019 Kia Forte is sold in sedan, five-door hatchback (Forte5) and two-door (Forte Koup) configurations. Our review covers the sedan only, but if you need ample utility, then take a closer look at the hatchback. As for the coupe, consider this body style if you insist on sportiness.

Kia offers four Forte sedan trims, beginning with the FE ($17,690). Dealers won’t stock many of those, so take a look at the three other trims: LXS ($19,090), S ($20,190) and the EX ($21,990). Add $895 for the destination charge.

All this represents a very tight price separation between the four trims. It is even tighter for FE customers who upgrade from the manual transmission to the CVT, adding $900 to their price. The CVT is standard elsewhere.

2019 Kia Forte Sedan

The two base trims come as delivered — there are no packages available. Choose the S trim and you’ll find an S Premium Package ($1,200, with LED headlights with automatic leveling, high beam assist, a power sunroof, and LED interior lighting).

Choose the top EX trim and you’ll find an EX Launch Edition Package ($3,210). This package includes all the features of the S Premium Package and adds such amenities as a rear trunk lid spoiler, 17-inch graphite finish alloy wheels, smart cruise control, parking distance warning-reverse, improved telematics, a wireless phone charger, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

My test EX model came fully equipped, pushing this model’s final price to about $26,000.

Inspired by the Kia Stinger

The 2019 Forte sedan’s design is the sportiest one yet, inspired by the Kia Stinger. The Stinger is Kia’s special performance sedan (actually, it is a hatchback), which sits on a rear-wheel-drive platform with available all-wheel drive. The Stinger competes with the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300, as well as with select European models.

2019 Kia Forte SedanDesign elements from the Stinger have found their way to the Forte. Indeed, the Forte’s silhouette is the antithesis of a boxy design, with its falling hood, a long roofline, high beltline, and tapered rear deck.

The Forte’s front fascia features the latest interpretation of Kia’s tiger-nose grille, delivering a look that is at once sophisticated and handsome. Lighting details, profile creases, and available diffuser-like trim add visual interest. Kia’s designers worked diligently to impart a more refined look to the Forte and it pays off.

Standard exterior features include projector low-beam (and automatic) headlights, 15-inch steel wheels, and power-adjusted side mirrors. Among the many available upgrades are LED lights, front fog lights, alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, puddle lamps, a power sunroof, and a rear spoiler.

Inside, the cabin is roomy, offering space for five passengers. The dashboard is fairly simple, yet it offers its own panache, with layers and lines embellishing the surface. The instrument panel is uncomplicated with two analog dials dominating.

2019 Kia Forte SedanThe center stack is topped by a wide and colorful screen. The ledge at the bottom of the screen is where you may rest your cell phone. In some models, it doubles as a wireless charging port. This is a handy feature and certainly beats storing your cell phone in a cup-holder.

Other standout cabin features include minimal buttons and switches to control everything, large in-door storage areas, and an oversized glove box.

As for seating, the front seats are comfortable and offer decent support. The rear seat holds up to three, although legroom may feel tight for tall passengers. This 60/40 bench seat folds down and provides access to the roomy trunk, measuring a generous 15.3 cubic feet.

Standard interior features include full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The list of optional features include a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, heated and ventilated front seats, imitation leather seats, a sliding armrest, an illuminated glove box, and LED lighting.

Technology & Safety Features

All 2019 Fortes come with an 8-inch touch-screen audio system display. The list of standard features includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, USB and auxiliary audio input, and Bluetooth connectivity. The two bottom trims have a four-speaker audio system, while the two top trims are equipped with six speakers.

2019 Kia Forte SedanAvailable features include satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, an additional USB charger, and wireless charging. An eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system is also available.

Among standard safety features, you’ll find forward collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Depending on the trim, you’ll find additional safety features, including lane change assist, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, high-beam assist, parking assistance, and smart cruise control.

Kudos to Kia for bringing sophisticated safety technologies to a mainstream compact model. “Budget” no longer means stripped and your personal safety doesn’t require you to opt for a pricey model.

On the Road: 2019 Kia Forte

All 2019 Fortes come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. What’s interesting here is that the CVT is new to the model line and unique to Kia (corporate cousin Hyundai utilizes a six-speed automatic transmission).

2019 Kia Forte SedanThe Kia powertrain delivers 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque and, thus, is geared toward efficiency, not performance. Indeed, in its most efficient form, this model makes a laudable 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.

Kia took special care to develop a transmission that behaves more like an automatic than a CVT. A CVT represents a gearless design, which means the engine usually revs loud under hard acceleration. But Kia’s engineer’s worked with software developers to mimic steps, which mitigates noise and the uncomfortable “it sounds like the engine is going to blow” feeling that goes with it.

The front-wheel-drive Forte is not performance-oriented by any stretch, although it navigates corners with ease and supplies a reasonably comfortable ride. What may disappoint some is that the previously available turbo option is gone — you’ll still find this engine in the top trims of the hatchback and coupe.

Parting Thoughts: 2019 Kia Forte Sedan

Kia gets nearly everything right with the 2019 Forte sedan. But even the lack of a more powerful engine option seems somewhat inconsequential here. After all, Kia delivers a sporty design with a modern and roomy interior and ample trunk space at the ready.

2019 Kia Forte SedanThis automaker also supplies advanced safety technologies and delivers its share of in-cabin amenities and options. These features make the Forte an impressive entrant in a competitive segment.

Among the Forte’s chief competitors are the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and the Nissan Sentra. The Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Jetta, Chevrolet Cruze, and Mazda3 also warrant a look. Other models include the Subaru Impreza (with standard all-wheel drive) and the outgoing Ford Focus.

Lastly, keep in mind that Kia offers an outstanding warranty plan, which delivers longer bumper-to-bumper protection, an extended rust warranty, and a noteworthy powertrain plan. Altogether, Kia is big on value and strong on amenities, representing strong attributes consumers should not ignore.


2019 Kia Forte Sedan


2019 Kia Forte Sedan Specifications

Kia 2019 Kia Forte
Segment Compact Sedan
Base Sticker Price $18,585 ( includes $885 destination charge)
Price as tested $26,000 (est.)
Standard Engine 2.0-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 147 @ 6,200 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 132 @ 4,500 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed manual or continuously variable
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) From 2,762
Wheelbase (inches) 106.3
Length (inches) 182.7
Width (inches) 70.9
Height (inches) 56.5
Headroom (f,r…inches) 38.8; 37.5
Legroom (f,r…inches) 42.2, 35.7
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 56.1, 55.3
Hip room (f,r…inches) 53.0, 51.1
Storage (cubic feet) 15.3
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 3,792
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) 1,030
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 14
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 31/41
Manufacturing Plant Monterey, Mexico

2019 Kia Forte Sedan


See Also — At a Glance: 2019 Kia Forte

2019 Kia Forte photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2019 cars, compact sedan, CVT, four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, Kia Forte

Raise the Stakes: 2019 Genesis G70

October 25, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

With the G70, Genesis now has a trio of luxury sedans to consider.

2019 Genesis G70

Things are getting serious at Genesis Motors. When launching the upscale brand in 2015 with two sedans, the Hyundai Motor Group promised to populate its luxury marque with six models.

This year, Genesis released its third model, the compact G70 sedan, making its strongest case yet as a luxury manufacturer. Indeed, where the midsize G80 and full-size G90 sedans established toeholds in their respective segments, the G70 is going after the heart of the matter, in this case, models such as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the Audi A4, among others.

Yes, Genesis is delivering its sedans first, with two SUVs to follow. A sixth model, perhaps a hybrid sports car, will flesh out Genesis’ product line.

And if you think Genesis Motors will rest on its laurels come 2020, you have another thing coming. The Korean luxury brand aims to take on the world, and will likely do battle with Lexus, Jaguar, Acura, Cadillac, Infiniti, and other luxury brands moving forward.

2019 Genesis G70 Overview

The G70 may be the best example of Genesis’ bona fides, a sedan with a strong presence and the luxury and performance chops to back it up. It is Genesis’ riskiest model yet, as it invades territory long dominated by a few players. BMW and Mercedes-Benz have the strongest entries (and they’re also new for 2019), with competitors such as the Lexus IS, Cadillac ATS and the Jaguar XE offering a modest presence.

2019 Genesis G70Genesis offers the 2019 G70 in five trims, with each one based on a particular engine and drivetrain. The base model comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This rear-wheel-drive model starts at $34,900. Add $995 for the destination fee.

The second model is the all-wheel-drive version of the base model. This one starts at $36,900. Yes, there is a six-speed manual gearbox available with the base rear-wheel-drive model only. Here, your cost is $37,900.

The fourth trim is powered by a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This one retails for $43,750. If you prefer all-wheel drive, then your cost is $45,750.

2019 Genesis G70You’ll also find various package upgrades, including 2.0T Elite Package ($5,000), 2.0T Dynamic Package ($9,000; $8,000 on the all-wheel drive) and 2.0T Sport Package ($10,000; $9,000 on the all-wheel drive). You’ll also find a 3.3T Elite Package ($1,750), 3.3T Dynamic Package ($4,250) and 3.3T Sport Package ($5,750) choices. We’ll mention items from those packages as we discuss various other features moving forward.

Importantly, the 2019 Genesis G70 matches the starting price of the 2019 BMW 3 Series. The G70’s top-end pricing is lower than the BMW and its amenities list goes deeper. What it doesn’t offer to U.S. customers is diesel or hybrid variants. We think the latter will eventually become commonly found in Genesis’ future product plans.

A Matter of Style

You may have heard that the Genesis G70 is related to the Kia Stinger. This is true. The corporate cousins share a common platform, although the G70 is slightly smaller than the Kia. It also takes its own styling direction — the silhouettes of the two models are quite dissimilar.

Up front, the G70 has a strong fascia, amplified by a gaping grille covered in mesh. Sleek wing-like headlamps touch the top of the grille. Large dugouts for the lower intake, stress this model’s aggressive demeanor.

2019 Genesis G70The G70’s profile features a long hood, a high beltline and a sloping roofline leading to a notched rear deck. Important design elements include boomerang accented side vents, which are common to sports cars, sport alloy wheels set within performance tires, red Brembo brakes and just enough body sculpting to keep things interesting.

From the rear, the fascia features an oversized trunk lip spoiler that serves as a bulge transecting the length of the trunk. Wraparound tail lamps, dual chrome exhaust tips, and a diffuser complete the look.

Yes, there are some differences between trims. My description applies to the top-trim model, which was my test vehicle and topped $52,000.

Standard exterior features include automatic headlights, high beam assist, LED lights, heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust tips, and a hands-free automatic opening trunk. Options include full LED headlights, Genesis logo approach lights, 19-inch wheels, summer tires, and a limited-slip differential

2019 Genesis G70Inside, the G70 delivers an elegant, yet straightforward cabin. It isn’t cluttered with knobs and switches or overrun by complex lines or secreted compartments. Much like the BMW 3 Series, the layout features analog readouts, sizable round dials, and a minimalist persona.

The quilted leather seats are the eye candy of choice for the G70. The visual appeal is complemented by passenger comfort, with the front seats offering a proper amount of bolstering and support. The rear seat is comfortable too, but like the BMW, legroom comes at a premium. Unless the driver or front passenger elect to have their seats pulled forward, you’ll soon realize that the rear seat is best left for children.

Standard interior features include a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, imitation leather seats, power front seats with driver power lumbar support, climate control and full power accessories. Optional features include alloy pedals, Nappa leather seating surfaces with sport quilting, heated and ventilated front seats, and aluminum trim.

Technology and Safety

Some luxury manufacturers make obtaining technology expensive. That is if you want such add-ons as Apple CarPlay, expect to pay $300 or more for the service. Most mainstream manufacturers include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for no charge. The same can be said for Genesis.

The standard color display measures seven inches. You’ll also find a rearview camera with parking guidelines, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio and HD Radio, and three USB ports. Optional features include a 15-speaker Lexicon audio system and full navigation.

2019 Genesis G70

Driver-assist safety technologies build on any model’s core safety systems, including brake assist, a suite of airbags, and crash test scores. We don’t yet have test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), but we’re confident this Genesis will do fine.

All models come with forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision warning with rear cross-traffic collision warning, smart (adaptive) cruise control with stop and go, driver attention warning, and high beam assist. This is a remarkable suite of advanced safety features and they’re included at no extra charge. Much of the competition is gradually adding features to the standard equipment list, but Genesis has the full package included.

On the Road With the 2019 Genesis G70

What flavor is your Genesis G70? My preferred model is the middle trim with the base engine and a manual transmission. I’m of the school where “rowing your own” is the preferred choice. When I’ve driven a BMW 3 Series with a manual gearbox, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.

Alas, Genesis sent the top-trim model my way. But I have no complaints with that decision whatsoever — it just means I’m not able to make comments about rev shifting and clutch uptake. In any case, BMW and Mercedes-Benz no longer offer manuals with their compact sedans, a decision that disappoints some enthusiasts to no end. Paddle shifters, anyone?

2019 Genesis G70If you opt for the base G70 engine, you’ll have 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque at the ready. These are good numbers, although if you want stronger performance to go with adroit maneuvering and a firm ride, an engine upgrade is in order.

That’s exactly what was under the hood of my test model — a twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 engine with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. It delivers an outstanding 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds or two full seconds faster than the standard engine.

One of the first things I noticed about the G70 is its fairly hushed, but still aggressive exhaust note on ignition. The low hum suggests something strong is at play, a fact confirmed by engaging the gas pedal. Copious amounts of power is at the ready and quickly tapped with no hesitation felt.

While power is certainly a G70 attribute, where this model’s strength lies is in its handling. Take the Genesis on a twisty road and it remains poised and stays planted on the sharpest turns. Indeed, the combination of Michelin sport tires and excellent suspension tuning ensure success in all your driving endeavors.

The G70 reminds me of the 3 Series in a very important way — it makes most any driver look skilled when entering and leaving corners or while hanging with the twisties. By the way, rear-wheel-drive models get a limited-slip differential.

Is there any downside to the G70? Yes. And that would be its harsh-at-times ride. There is no escaping the fact that when the Sport drive mode is chosen, the ride loses whatever softness is left, while also supplying a real connection with the road. That connection includes magnifying bumps and other road insults, which means you’ll want to choose smooth pavement wherever it can be found.

2019 Genesis G70

Parting Thoughts: 2019 Genesis G70

Mission Accomplished. Or at least, Mission Compact Luxury Sedan.

Genesis Motors rounds out its sedan line in an important way, delivering a model that should attract entry-level luxury model shoppers. Yes, Genesis absolutely needs to transition to SUVs, but you have to admire the brand for concentrating on its core competencies before launching an SUV.

Aiding the G70’s cause are robust services that go with it, including complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles with corresponding valet service. That service includes picking up and delivering the G70 for scheduled maintenance and supplying a courtesy replacement vehicle. You’ll also find three years of connected car services, satellite radio along with regular multimedia and navigation updates.


2019 Genesis G70

 


2019 Genesis G70 Specifications

Genesis 2019 G70
Segment Compact Luxury Sedan
Base Sticker Price $34,900 (plus $995 destination fee)
Price as tested $52,500 (AWD 3.3)
Engine No. 1 Turbocharged 2.0-liter, I4
Horsepower 252 @ 6,200 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 260 @ 1,400 to 4,000 RPMs
Transmission 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
Engine No. 2 -Twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter, V6
Horsepower 365 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 376 @ 1,300 to 4,500 RPMs
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Seating 5 (2+3)
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,516 to 3,887
Wheelbase (inches) 111.6
Length (inches) 184.4
Width (inches) 74.4
Height (inches) 55.1
Head room (f,r — inches) 39.7, 36.9
Leg room (f,r — inches) 42.6, 34.8
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 56.3, 54.6
Hip room (f,r — inches) N/A, N/A
Storage (cubic feet) 10.5
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) N/A
Towing (pounds) N/A
Payload (pounds) N/A
Fuel premium
Fuel Tank (gallons) 15.8
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 22/30 (2.0L RWD); 21/28 (2.0L AWD); 18/26 (3.3L RWD); 18/25 (3.3L AWD)
Manufacturing Plant Ulsan, South Korea

2019 Genesis G70


See Also — About the 2019 Genesis G70


2019 Genesis G70 photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2019 cars, 6-SPEED GEARBOX, all-wheel drive, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Audi A4, BMW 3-SERIES, Genesis, Genesis G70, Hyundai, Kia Stinger, luxury, MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS, rear-wheel drive, sedan

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