The Kia Forte Koup: A Stylish and Fun Discontinued Two-Door
The Kia Forte Koup, also known as the Kia Cerato Koup in some markets, was a sporty two-door coupe version of the Kia Forte sedan. Introduced in 2009, it offered a more exciting driving experience than its four-door counterpart, thanks to its sleeker design and optional performance-oriented features. While Kia discontinued the Forte Koup after the 2019 model year, it remains a popular choice in the used car market for those seeking a stylish and affordable coupe.
Standing Out from the Crowd
The Forte Koup's design was one of its strongest selling points. It boasted a sloping roofline, muscular fenders, and a wide stance that gave it a more aggressive look compared to the Forte sedan. The front fascia featured Kia's signature grille design, flanked by swept-back headlights that accentuated the car's sporty character. The taillights were equally stylish, wrapping around the rear fenders and adding to the car's overall sleekness.
Interior Comfort and Features
Despite its sporty exterior, the Forte Koup offered a surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior for two passengers. The front seats were supportive and offered decent headroom and legroom. The rear seats, however, were cramped and best suited for occasional use or small children. The interior design was simple but functional, with a focus on ergonomics and user-friendliness. The materials used were of decent quality, and the cabin offered a relatively quiet ride for a two-door car.
In terms of features, the Forte Koup came in various trim levels, each offering a different level of equipment. Base models included basic amenities like air conditioning, power windows, and a CD player. Higher-end trims offered more features such as a sunroof, leather upholstery, a navigation system, and a premium sound system.
Engineered for Fun
The Forte Koup was available with two different engine options. The base engine was a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produced 122 horsepower. This engine was adequate for everyday driving but lacked the punch some drivers might desire. For those seeking a more spirited driving experience, Kia offered a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 150 horsepower or 173 horsepower depending on the model year. This engine provided more responsive acceleration and made the Forte Koup more enjoyable to drive on twisty roads.
Both engines were paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience, while the automatic transmission provided a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Safety First
The Kia Forte Koup came equipped with a variety of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, traction control, and airbags. Higher-end trims offered additional safety features such as electronic stability control and a blind-spot monitoring system. While the Forte Koup never received a top safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it did receive decent scores in its crash tests.
The Discontinuation and Legacy
Kia discontinued the Forte Koup after the 2019 model year. The decision was likely due to declining sales of two-door coupes in favor of more practical four-door sedans and SUVs. However, the Forte Koup remains a popular choice in the used car market for those seeking a stylish and affordable sporty car.
Finding a Used Kia Forte Koup
If you're considering buying a used Kia Forte Koup, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to research the different trim levels and engine options available to find one that best suits your needs and budget. Second, have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. Finally, be prepared to negotiate the price, as used car prices can vary depending on the car's condition, mileage, and features.
Conclusion: A Fun Ride While it Lasted
The Kia Forte Koup offered a compelling package for those seeking a stylish, sporty, and affordable coupe. While it's no longer in production, it remains a viable option in the used car market. With its sleek design, comfortable interior (for the front passengers), and choice of engines, the Forte Koup provides a fun and enjoyable driving experience that continues to win over drivers. Though it may not be the most feature-rich car on the market, it strikes a good balance between affordability, style, and performance.
