The re-designed Kia Forte Koup gets approval nods for power, interior appearance, and package offerings. A one-week Forte Koup SX test drive cast this Kia car as a sporty protagonist. Fitted with a turbocharged 4-cylinder, the SX version is the most powerful Forte Koup yet. But this front wheel drive two-door is also a comfortable ride with its McPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. The 2014 model is wider, longer, and lower than the 2013 version. Forte Koup provides 42.2 inches of front legroom and 35.9 inches of legroom for rear seat riders. The cabin’s attractive presentation gets additional luster via the optional Premium Package that includes leather seating, ventilated driver’s seat, heated steering wheel and front seats.

The 106.3-inch wheelbase Forte Koup SX is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, producing 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 195 pounds-feet of torque between 1750-4500 rpm. Turbocharged engine mates to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Forte Koup is sold in EX and SX trims. Both trims include UVO powered by Microsoft in-vehicle infotainment with eServices, Bluetooth wireless technology, USB/auxiliary input jacks, and rearview camera as standard equipment. (EX is equipped with 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that releases 173 horsepower and 154 pounds-feet of peak torque.) Kia Forte Koup SX with manual transmission carries a $20,600 MSRP and collects estimated mpg of 22 city and 29 highway.