Get to your local Kia dealership this New Year, and check out the Kia Forte. Kia has shed its dowdy, plain styling and average power under the hood for greatness. The Korean brand has to this point been known as a bargain basement type of vehicle, with cheap yet descent cars which never stood up to the big players like Toyota or Honda. The Forte changes all that, it’s still in the least expensive small car category, but has the elements of a more expensive vehicle. Previously Kia’s Spectra, the predecessor, wasn’t a bad car, it just sat flat on the showroom floor. Its styling was generic, and its features weren’t anything to go running to. Kia put some long awaited effort into the look and features of their new Forte. It is a strong contender in the compact car arena, last year the 2010 Forte won the NADA award for most impressive styling, fuel efficiency, extensive features and a low price point. The NADA award is the automotive online resource for car buyers in the U.S.

Designed in California, the styling of the 2010 Forte has a nice wide stance reminiscent of the charger from the back, and the Honda Civic from the front. Despite the similarities the look is surprisingly upscale to each. Chunky fenders give the Forte a masculine look and feel, also the Forte boasts a tall roof and wider body which allows for some ‘wiggle room’ for both the driver and passengers. It has loads of leg room for everyone and the rear seat fits 3 comfortably and did I mention the trunk is large. The entire Forte line has all of the standard safety features, all of the airbags, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic stability control. Beyond the standard safety features all of the Fortes have Bluetooth, Sirius radio, auxiliary jacks, voice activation and steering wheel controllers. These aren’t standards on any other car or model at the Forte’s price point. Ex models come with air conditioning and power accessories, the SX model along with a stronger engine comes standard with a sportier suspension, larger brakes and 17 inch alloy wheels. Come on, are you kidding me, all this for its great low price.

Now let’s talk about what’s under the hood. In its category consumers are pleasantly surprised by the driving satisfaction and sophistications than all others in its class. It boasts great acceleration, 60 mph in 8 seconds, a well responsive hydraulic power steering, great visibility and the firm yet comfortable ride. The four wheel disc brakes stop hard and confidently. I personally like the EX automatic Forte, it keeps the 2.0 liter engine but upgrades to a five speed automatic. It includes electric power steering, a smart alternator, low resistance tires and some aerodynamic enhancements. All this and its fuel economy rating is 27 MPG in the city and 36 on the highway.

Overall, I am impressed with the Kia Forte’s style, comfort, value, warranty and fuel economy, plus its fun to drive. If anyone out there is looking for a fun little spit fire coupe or sedan it is well worth the trip to the dealership to look at and test drive. You won’t be disappointed. Forget everything you thought you knew about the Kia brand, this bold, new compact car is going to change your mind and your life. I am looking forward to seeing what Kia has planned for its next unveiling, could it be even better?