Just two decades ago, SUVs were all the rage. Due to people’s awareness about their carbon footprint and rising gas prices, however, new car buyers are looking for something different. That has allowed an entirely new breed of crossovers and compacts to take the market by storm. The Forte has always been a popular Kia model, but the upgrades, redesign, and integration of performance meeting technology in the 2017 model puts it head and shoulders above the rest in this class for both affordability and what you get for your money.

Depending on what kind of sedan you are looking for, the Forte offers three various models -- the LX, S and the EX. A sleek design makes the 2017 Kia Forte look like a high-end automobile, and the LX starts at just under $20,000. The front LED lights and the option for rear LED combination lamps get the car noticed when it’s driving down the street. For enhanced convenience and safety, there are also light-up handle pockets and perimeter approach lighting that helps light your way so you aren’t fumbling in the dark.

The 2017 models also come with more all-around comfort. It isn’t just the front passengers who ride in style; the back seats have generous space and the same conveniences as the front passenger seats. Both heated and cooled seats make sure that everyone is in the perfect temperature during both the summer and winter.

One of the best features available is the integrated steering wheel, which is more like a command center. The mounted controls allow the driver to keep their eyes on the road while navigating the sunroof, ventilating the seating, or messing with the radio and other connectivity features. Right there at the driver’s fingertips are all the things needed to make for both a smooth and safe ride.

To keep up with the high demands of a technology-driven market, the 2017 Kia Forte spared no expense on upgrades. Included are Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Parking Minder and the UVO App. The UVO eServices is one of the most advanced infotainment systems in the industry, and it comes standard on all Kia Forte Surrey models.

That means that you can make calls hands-free, use Google Maps for your GPS, and send your destinations directly to your car so you can hear turn-by-turn instructions. Never getting lost and always being in command are two very awesome features that help the driver navigate without having to flip through their smartphone to find their destination.

The enhanced technology reduces the potential of being distracted while driving. Integrate your telephone so that you can safely multitask while on the road by sending text messages or talking to Siri to get the information you need without ever having to take your eyes off of the road.

The technology isn’t just about entertainment; all models include various built-in radars that help to detect blind spots. That gives the driver additional safety and cuts back on the human error that is often responsible for both minor and major collisions. The lane assist mode will alert a driver if they aren’t keeping a safe and consistent distance from the next lane,  which is a great security feature for you and your passengers while you’re on the road. The backup display camera also helps with those who aren’t so fantastic at parallel parking, by giving you wide-angle views of anything that could potentially be in your way.

As if all those features weren’t cool enough, Kia has taken great pains to make the 2017 Kia Forte as safe as can be in the event of an accident. The advanced airbag system is one of the best in the industry. A new reinforced body design makes the headrests more active to help with impact, and the additional passenger security measures make sure that your passengers are safe in side impact accidents, in ways that other car makers have only dreamed of.


The total package of the 2017 Kia Forte is amazing, and for under $25,000  you can have every upgrade available. A nice price with superior upgrades makes the Forte, a car that you should consider if you are in the market for a lower-priced sedan with a high-priced attention to detail and design.