2019 Kia Forte

The new 2019 Kia Forte comes in four trim levels: FE, LXS, S, and EX. The FE offers the lowest starting price of the four and comes with standard features like automatic headlights, 15-inch wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The LXS trim steps things up with extra color options, standard cruise control, and a 60/40 split rear seat. The S trim offers 17-inch wheels, fog lights, and the new UVO eServices infotainment system. The EX is the top trim and adds a hands-free trunk, two extra USB charging ports, and a smart key with a push-button engine start.

UVO eServices infotainment system. The EX is the top trim and adds a hands-free trunk, two extra USB charging ports, and a smart key with a push-button engine start. Engine (Power) Under the hood of the 2019 Forte, you'll find a 2.0-liter I-4 engine that gives you 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard on the FE trim, but you can upgrade to the new Intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission, or IVT. This automatic transmission uses artificial gears to avoid the droning noise of a first-generation CVT but doesn't sacrifice fuel efficiency: this powertrain gets an estimated 41 highway and 31 city mpg.

The 2019 Kia Forte is a budget compact sedan made for daily commutes and errands around town, so Kia designed the engine and transmission for efficiency. As a result, the new Forte has some of the best gas mileage numbers in its class. Even the manual transmission offers a combined 31 mpg. The Forte is also quiet for its class and has a solid suspension that won't give up on rough roads. If you want to have a little fun, the Forte also comes with a Sport driving mode.

Open up the trunk of a 2019 Forte, and you'll find 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, a solid number for a compact sedan. The seats can be upholstered with woven cloth, tricot cloth, or leatherette, and in the top EX trim, they come in stylish two-tone options. The EX trim also comes with a voice-command navigation system, wireless phone charger, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system with seven speakers and a subwoofer.

Basic safety features on a 2019 Kia Forte include six air bags, a traction control system, and vehicle stability management. Every trim also comes with a rearview camera, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist-Line, and the Driver Attention Warning. Depending on the trim, you can also get features like a blind-spot collision warning and a rear cross-traffic collision warning. With all of these features, you're sure to find a reason to love the 2019 Kia Forte. Take one for a test drive today!