Thank you to Drive STI for providing me with a car to test drive. All opinions are my own.
When it comes to creating affordable and reliable vehicles, Kia is always a name that comes to mind. Throw in the latest technology and a sleek body along with affordability and reliability and you end up with the new 2014 Kia Forte! Packed with everything from steering wheel mounted controls, voice navigation and UVO eServices Infotainment System to heated seats, rear camera display and the safety of front and side curtain airbags, the 2014 Kia Forte is a car for the “all-inclusive” driver.
I recently got to test drive the 2014 Kia Forte EX for a couple days while attending a blogging conference and I have to say, I almost cried when I had to leave it behind. Don’t get me wrong, I love my mini van (never thought I’d actually say those words) but when it comes to driving around with just me in the car, having a vehicle that gives you the latest technology is something to envy. The 2014 Kia Forte comes in two different option, the LX and EX. I was amazed to see the amount of options that come standard on the EX are normally high-end upgrades in other car brand models. A few of my favorite features of the 2014 Kia Forte EX are:
Standard Interior
- AM/FM/CD/MP3/SiriusXM Audio System with 4 Speakers
- Tweeter Speakers
- UVO eServices Infotainment System
- Rear Camera Display
- Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Hands-Free Connectivity
- Cruise Control with Steering Wheel Controls
- Steering-Wheel-Mounted Audio, Hands-Free Phone and Cruise Control Buttons
- USB/Auxiliary Input Jack
- Active Eco System
- FlexSteer™ Driver-Selectable Steering Assist
- Remote Keyless Entry with Trunk Opener
- Front Center Console with Sliding Armrest
- Day/Night Interior Rear-View Mirror
- Push Button Start w/Smart Key & Immobilizer
- Cooling & Illuminated Glove Box
Standard Exterior
- Dual Body-Color Heated Power Mirrors
- Mirror-Mounted LED Turn Signal Indicators
- Power Folding Outside Mirrors
- Solar Control Glass
- Auto Light Control
- Projector Beam Headlights
- Front Fog Lights
- Positioning Lights, LED
- Heated Rear Glass with Timer
- Locking Fuel-Filler Door
- 16″ Alloy Wheels
I had an absolute BLAST driving the 2014 Kia Forte EX! The car drove super smooth and the acceleration was great when getting on the highway. I was surprised how roomy the interior was and I’m sure I could easily fit the car seats of my two kiddos in the back and someone could still sit in the middle with no issues. I’m not the tallest of drivers (5’6) so leg room normally isn’t a problem, but even so, there was more then enough leg space for both the driver and passenger. The trunk is much larger then I thought it would be too which is great, especially when you have to tote a stroller everywhere you go!
The navigation came in really handy since I was in a new city and I loved how integrated the UVO eServices Infotainment System was. The system made it easy for me to find a place to eat, scan the radio and set my destination all at once! I even paired the car with my iPhone so calls would come through the car speakers, giving me an immediate hands free experience. The call quality was superb and even while using the navigation, the car auto dims the radio so you can hear your directions better. Another feature I love, is that the side mirrors automatically fold in when the car is locked. Perfect for fitting into tight spaces. Plus the 2014 Kia Forte EX offers a keyless, push to start system. This means, that the key fob just needs to be inside the car to start the vehicle. When the car detects the key fob is getting further away, the car will automatically lock!
With a combined city and highway fuel economy of 28 mpg, 173hp at 6,500 rpm and being an electronically controlled 6-speed automatic with overdrive, the specs of the 2014 Kia Forte EX them selves are enough to appeal to anyone. Whether you’re commuting or looking for a little love in the fast lane, the 2014 Kia Forte EX is a great all around vehicle that keeps your money in your pocket instead of in the gas tank. Starting at just $19,400, the 2014 Kia Forte EX would look ravishing with a giant bow on top this holiday season!
Find out more about the 2014 Kia Forte on Kia’s website!
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What a fun experience!
That is a really nice car! I’m loving that radio and of course the Keyless feature!
What a fun looking car! I like the features on this and it is getting added to my list of cars to look into so I can ditch the minivan.