Dimension-wise, there’s not a great deal of difference between the Forte sedan and its sibling the Forte Koup. The Koup’s body is 2.4 inches lower, 2 inches shorter and less than ½-inch narrower than the sedan. Both have the same wheelbase (104.3 inches), but the Koup deserves attention beyond being a sedan sibling. One of the strongest likeable aspects about the Koup is the easy access to things that matter (like a button with the word ‘trip’ on it). The trip button, located on the dashboard to the right of instrument gauges, is just one example of simplistic and common sense design. There are also large-sized dials for controlling heat and air conditioning versus tiny dials and push buttons.

Koup is offered in two trim levels: EX and SX. Koup EX is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that delivers 156 horsepower and 144 pounds-feet of peak torque, while Koup SX is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that pumps out 173 horsepower and 168 pounds-feet of peak torque. The EX version offers two transmission choices (5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic) as does the SX (6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic). Drivers will notice (and appreciate) the appropriately sized footrest to the far left of the brake and accelerator. Two-door Koup has a very respectable amount interior space at more than 90 cubic feet. Trunk space is more than 12 cubic feet and can be expanded via the 60/40-split fold rear seat. All Koups offer an optional power/tilt sunroof. Kia Koup SX with 5-speed automatic transmission collects estimated mpg of 23 city/31 highway and has a MSRP of $18,500.