KIA’s sporty-looking Forte Koup is looking to earn more good will in 2016 by continuing to be a ‘fun to drive’ two-door version of its siblings, while offering some pretty solid standard & optional features.
The Forte Koup doesn’t just look sporty, it actually has real-world on-track credentials in the form of back to back championships in 2014 and 2015 in the Pirelli World Challenge Touring Car A class, which is something the Korean manufacturer wants you to consider when deciding on a new budget-conscious sporty car.
In 2016, the Forte Koup continues to be available in two trim levels, EX & SX. The EX version comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, whereas the SX trim offers a sportier 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI unit. The SX also comes standard with a six-speed manual, though you can go for the six-speed automatic with what KIA call “race-inspired paddle shifters” if you so chose.
Standard features on the EX trim include 16″ wheels, remote keyless entry, Rear Camera Display and a center armrest with cooling glove box. If you go for the optional Premium Tech Package you’ll also enjoy heated front seats, leather seat trim, power sunroof, push-button start with Smart Key and a sat-nav system with HD Radio, which is new for 2016.
Also new to the Forte Koup are the power adjustable heated and cooled driver’s seat, heated steering wheel and the dual-zone automatic climate system with center console rear vents – though if you’ll decide to buy the SX model you’ll get UVO eServices telematics, a sport-tuned suspension, 18″ wheels, larger front brake rotors, LED taillights and a dual exhaust, to go with your push-button start system with smart key.
As for on-road performance, the 2016 Forte Koup makes use of a MacPherson strut front suspension, and FlexSteer, while the Comfort, Normal and Sport settings (which vary steering effort at the touch of a button on the steering wheel) will help the driver get the most out of his ride, depending on his or her mood.
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