The Kia Forte5 is simply a five-door iteration of the brand's economy car. Packing more space and utility into a small economy car sounds like one practical package. Our test car came with the optional twin-clutch transmission and the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine.
We recently reviewed the Toyota Corolla iM, one of the Forte SX's biggest competitors. So how do they compare? Our own General Manager, Margie Suddard, took the keys to find out.
Anything else worth noting? Basically, if you get a manual, is it worth considering? I remember driving a manual Fiesta (that I bought) vs an auto. Night and day. That Ford auto is pile.
In reply to singleslammer:
If it's the same dual clutch as the Hyundai Veloster loaner we had, yes it really is pretty damn bad.
I liked the 16 that I drove, but it was a stick.
I haven't driven the manual, so I can't judge. Tim also drove it--also only once--and said the steering felt "as dead as Abraham Lincoln," so not sure a stick is going to transform this enough. The overall dynamic was sluggish and underpowered. If we get a chance to drive a non-slushbox version, I'll be eager to see if that's all it needs to, you know, not suck.
Margie
Wow...It sounds like Kia benchmarked the Ford Powershift, and then decided they could beat them at their own "How bad can a DCT be?" game.
I have the 2017 Elantra Sport with the 201hp 1.6T and the M6 transmission. I smile every time I drive it.
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