2017 Kia Forte

2017 Kia Forte Highlights

For 2017, the Kia Forte borrows the styling cues of the Optima in a visual refresh. The changes continue under the skin, too, with available Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, new driver assistance tech, an optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for the Forte5 SX, a new 2.0-liter base engine, and an S trim for the Forte sedan. There is no more Forte Koup.

Key Details

• Compact car available as a sedan or hatchback body style (Forte5)
• Two-row seating for five passengers
• Three engine options across the lineup
• Front-wheel drive (FWD)
• Restyled exterior inspired by the larger Kia Optima
• New base 2.0-liter engine replacing the previous 1.8-liter unit
• Introduction of the S trim for the sedan
• Addition of available advanced safety features
• New 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for the SX trim (Forte5 hatchback)
• Availability of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Discontinuation of the Forte Koup (two-door) model

Benefits

• Refreshed styling for a more modern look
• Improved base engine performance
• New sport-oriented S trim for sedan
• Available advanced safety features
• Enhanced connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Spacious interior for a compact car
• Kia's reputation for value and warranty coverage

Learn More: Here Are The Kia Forte Years To Avoid

2017 Kia Forte Overview

Performance

The 2017 Kia Forte offers three engine options across its lineup:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (LX and S sedan trims):

• 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque
• Available with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (EX sedan and LX/EX Forte5 trims):

• 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque
• Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (Forte5 SX trim):

• 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• Available with a six-speed manual or new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

The new base 2.0-liter engine improves performance and efficiency over the outgoing 1.8-liter unit. The 2017 Kia Forte EX trim also has a 2.0-liter engine, but it has much more power and torque than the base unit. The turbocharged engine in the Forte5 SX is certainly the enthusiast choice.

Performance features include:

• Drive Mode Select (Normal, Eco, and Sport modes) on automatic transmission models
• Sport-tuned suspension on S and SX trims
• Available paddle shifters on S and SX trims

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2017 Kia Forte sedan a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2017 Forte a Top Safety Pick+, its highest designation.

Standard safety features across all 2017 Kia Forte models include:

• Six airbags (front, front side-impact, and side-curtain)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Traction control system (TCS)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Vehicle stability management (VSM)
• Hill start assist control (HAC)

For 2017, Kia has expanded the availability of advanced safety features. Higher trims and optional packages offer:

• Autonomous emergency braking
• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Blind spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert
• Rearview camera

Driving

The 2017 Kia Forte sedan has a less powerful engine and no dual-clutch automatic option, but it exists in the lineup more to provide basic, daily transportation. It’s a perfectly competent compact with confidence-inspiring steering and handling but nothing that hints at sportiness.

Step up to the Forte5, and you get the versatility of a hatchback with the option of the 1.6-liter turbo four and the seven-speed dual-clutch auto. The six-speed manual is available in either body style but is best with the spirited 1.6-liter turbo, which elevates the Forte5 to near-hot hatch territory.

Ride quality is a strong point for the Forte. The suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride without feeling overly soft. The 2017 Kia Forte S and SX trims feature a sport-tuned suspension that offers a slightly firmer ride and more responsive handling.

Interior

The 2017 Kia Forte's refreshed interior is well-designed and functional, and the materials are inexpensive but durable.

Key interior features include:

• Cloth seats (standard on LX and S trims)
• Available leather seating surfaces (EX trim)
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
• Available 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat
• Available heated and ventilated front seats

The Forte's front seats offer good comfort and support, with decent headroom and legroom for most drivers and passengers. The rear seats provide adequate space for adult passengers, though taller individuals may find headroom slightly limited.

Cargo space is competitive for the class:

• Sedan: 14.9 cubic feet of trunk space
• Forte5 hatchback: 23.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 56.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

Material quality is generally good throughout the cabin but plain. Higher trims offer more premium touches, including leather upholstery and additional soft-touch materials.

Technology

The 2017 Kia Forte’s refresh brings notable improvements to its tech offerings.

Key technology features include:

• Available seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• New Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
• Available navigation system
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• USB and auxiliary input jacks
• Available premium audio system

The infotainment system is user-friendly, with responsive touch inputs and intuitive menu layouts. Adding Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for 2017 significantly enhances the Forte's connectivity options.

Additional technology features available on higher trims include:

• Push-button start
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• LED taillights

Fuel Economy

The 2017 Kia Forte's fuel economy varies depending on the engine and transmission combination. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

2.0-liter four-cylinder (147 hp):

• Manual transmission (mpg): 25 city / 34 highway / 28 combined
• Automatic transmission (mpg): 29 city / 38 highway / 32 combined

2.0-liter four-cylinder (164 hp):

• Automatic transmission (mpg): 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined
• Forte5 automatic transmission (mpg): 25 city / 34 highway / 28 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (Forte5 SX):

• Manual transmission (mpg): 23 city / 29 highway / 25 combined
• Dual-clutch automatic (mpg): 25 city / 30 highway / 27 combined

2017 Kia Forte FAQs

How many miles will a 2017 Kia Forte last?

A 2017 Kia Forte can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Many Forte owners report their vehicles surpassing 150,000 miles with regular care.

Are there any current recalls on the 2017 Kia Forte?

There have been several recalls issued for the 2017 Kia Forte. These include:

• A recall for a potential fuel leak that could increase the risk of fire.
• Another recall concerns the trunk latch, which could become damaged and prevent the trunk from being opened from the inside.
• A recall for certain vehicles equipped with LED headlights due to a problem that could cause the headlights to dim over time.

Check Out: Kia Forte trim levels: Feature comparison tables.