The 2016 KIA Forte is a compact car from the South Korean automaker, part of its second generation (2014-2018). It was available as a sedan, a two-door Koup, and a five-door Forte5 hatchback. Key trims included the value-oriented LX and the feature-rich EX, with a sporty SX available for the Koup and Forte5. New pricing typically ranged from approximately $16,000 to $22,000. It stood out for offering an impressive array of features and stylish design at a competitive price, making it popular among budget-conscious buyers.
The Good
The 2016 KIA Forte boasts strong advantages in value, offering abundant features for its price point, appealing to practical buyers. Its stylish design and comfortable interior with available tech like UVO infotainment satisfy emotional desires. Good fuel efficiency and generally decent reliability provide long-term practicality, while the available 2.0L and turbo engines offer adequate performance for daily driving and more.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2016 KIA Forte include a somewhat underpowered base 1.8L engine and noticeable road noise at highway speeds. Some lower trim interior materials feel a bit cheap, and the steering can lack direct feedback. Rear seat legroom is also not class-leading, and potential long-term engine issues for GDI units are a concern.
2016 KIA Forte: Quick Overview
The 2016 KIA Forte offered a range of specifications across its various body styles and trim levels:
- Engine Options:
- 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine (standard on Forte LX Sedan)
- 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine (standard on Forte EX Sedan, Forte5 LX/EX)
- 1.6-liter turbocharged DOHC 4-cylinder engine (standard on Forte Koup SX, Forte5 SX)
- Horsepower:
- 1.8L: 145 hp @ 6,500 rpm
- 2.0L: 173 hp @ 6,500 rpm
- 1.6L Turbo: 201 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates, automatic transmission):
- 1.8L: Approximately 26 MPG city / 39 MPG highway / 31 MPG combined
- 2.0L: Approximately 25 MPG city / 36 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
- 1.6L Turbo (Forte5 SX): Approximately 22 MPG city / 29 MPG highway / 25 MPG combined
- 0-60 Times (approximate):
- 1.8L: Around 9.0 seconds
- 2.0L: Around 8.0 seconds
- 1.6L Turbo: Around 7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: The 2016 KIA Forte is generally not rated or recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX Trim: (Base sedan/Koup) Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, heated power mirrors, a four-speaker sound system with CD player, satellite radio, USB/auxiliary audio inputs, and Bluetooth connectivity. A Popular Package added cruise control and remote keyless entry.
- EX Trim: (Higher sedan/Koup/Forte5) Built upon the LX, the EX added the more powerful 2.0L engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, foglights, a rearview camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Kia's UVO eServices infotainment system with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, and a cooled glovebox. Optional EX packages could add navigation, a larger 7-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and push-button start.
- SX Trim: (Sportiest Koup/Forte5) Exclusively featured the 1.6L turbocharged engine. It also included 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, larger front brakes, unique front and rear fascias, dual chrome exhaust tips, LED taillights, and paddle shifters for automatic models. Interior enhancements often included sport seats with additional bolstering.
2016 KIA Forte Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Forte |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | Coupe |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | HWASUNG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | GDI Gamma |
| Engine Size | 1.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 KIA Forte Have?
While the 2016 KIA Forte generally offers respectable reliability for its class, some common issues and long-term concerns have been reported. A significant concern, though less prevalent than in some other Kia/Hyundai models of the era (like those with Theta II engines), relates to potential engine problems, specifically with the GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, engine ticking noises, or in more severe cases, connecting rod bearing failures that can lead to complete engine seizure. These issues can sometimes be linked to inadequate maintenance, particularly infrequent oil changes, which can exacerbate carbon buildup on intake valves, a known GDI drawback.
Another frequently reported issue across various Kia models, including some Forte years, is a faulty brake light switch. This can cause the brake lights to fail, cruise control to malfunction, or prevent the shift lever from moving out of park. This issue was subject to a broad recall for many Kia and Hyundai vehicles.
Recalls specific to the 2016 KIA Forte itself (as per NHTSA data) include a recall for the trunk latch base, where a component could fracture, preventing the trunk from opening from the inside, posing an entrapment risk. Additionally, some Fortes were included in broader recalls related to the brake light switch previously mentioned. There are also reports, albeit less common, of issues with the electric power steering system, leading to a reduction in power assist or an unusual steering feel.
Long-term reliability considerations should focus on the engine's health, especially ensuring diligent oil changes for GDI engines to mitigate carbon buildup. Regular checks for fluid levels and listening for unusual engine noises are advisable. While many Forte owners enjoy trouble-free ownership, these potential issues warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a review of the vehicle's service history.
Another frequently reported issue across various Kia models, including some Forte years, is a faulty brake light switch. This can cause the brake lights to fail, cruise control to malfunction, or prevent the shift lever from moving out of park. This issue was subject to a broad recall for many Kia and Hyundai vehicles.
Recalls specific to the 2016 KIA Forte itself (as per NHTSA data) include a recall for the trunk latch base, where a component could fracture, preventing the trunk from opening from the inside, posing an entrapment risk. Additionally, some Fortes were included in broader recalls related to the brake light switch previously mentioned. There are also reports, albeit less common, of issues with the electric power steering system, leading to a reduction in power assist or an unusual steering feel.
Long-term reliability considerations should focus on the engine's health, especially ensuring diligent oil changes for GDI engines to mitigate carbon buildup. Regular checks for fluid levels and listening for unusual engine noises are advisable. While many Forte owners enjoy trouble-free ownership, these potential issues warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a review of the vehicle's service history.
How long will the 2016 KIA Forte last?
With consistent and proper maintenance, a 2016 KIA Forte can typically achieve an average lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, equating to 10-15 years of service. Its long-term durability is generally considered decent for a compact car, assuming regular servicing. Crucial maintenance habits include timely oil changes, especially for the GDI engines which can be prone to carbon buildup without fresh lubricants, and routine transmission fluid checks. Neglecting these can significantly reduce the engine's lifespan.
Over time, common weaknesses might emerge, such as potential issues with the electric power steering motor or a worn-out suspension. While the Forte is designed for durability, components like engine mounts or certain sensors might require replacement past 100,000 miles. Owners should watch for engine ticking sounds or unusual power steering behavior as indicators of potential problems.
Over time, common weaknesses might emerge, such as potential issues with the electric power steering motor or a worn-out suspension. While the Forte is designed for durability, components like engine mounts or certain sensors might require replacement past 100,000 miles. Owners should watch for engine ticking sounds or unusual power steering behavior as indicators of potential problems.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 KIA Forte offered a competitive suite of technology, entertainment, and safety features for its class.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Standard on the base LX was a four-speaker sound system with CD player, satellite radio, USB/auxiliary audio inputs, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Moving to the EX trim or selecting optional packages significantly upgraded the experience. Available features included Kia's UVO eServices infotainment system, which typically came with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, later upgradable to a 7-inch touchscreen with an integrated navigation system. UVO provided functionalities like vehicle diagnostics, roadside assistance, and geo-fencing for teen drivers. Other desirable tech included push-button start with keyless entry, heated front seats, and a cooled glovebox.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Driver-assistance technology was somewhat limited for the 2016 model year, reflecting the compact segment's offerings at the time. The most notable available driver-assistance feature was a rearview camera, which came standard on EX trims and was optional on the LX. Rear parking sensors were also available as a dealer-installed accessory.
Safety Features:
Standard safety equipment across all 2016 Forte models included antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2016 Forte generally performed well in independent crash tests:
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Standard on the base LX was a four-speaker sound system with CD player, satellite radio, USB/auxiliary audio inputs, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Moving to the EX trim or selecting optional packages significantly upgraded the experience. Available features included Kia's UVO eServices infotainment system, which typically came with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, later upgradable to a 7-inch touchscreen with an integrated navigation system. UVO provided functionalities like vehicle diagnostics, roadside assistance, and geo-fencing for teen drivers. Other desirable tech included push-button start with keyless entry, heated front seats, and a cooled glovebox.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Driver-assistance technology was somewhat limited for the 2016 model year, reflecting the compact segment's offerings at the time. The most notable available driver-assistance feature was a rearview camera, which came standard on EX trims and was optional on the LX. Rear parking sensors were also available as a dealer-installed accessory.
Safety Features:
Standard safety equipment across all 2016 Forte models included antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2016 Forte generally performed well in independent crash tests:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The Forte sedan earned an overall five-star safety rating. It received four stars for frontal crash protection, five stars for side-impact protection, and four stars for rollover protection.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): The Forte sedan achieved "Good" ratings in moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact, roof strength, and head restraint & seat tests. However, it received a "Marginal" rating in the challenging small-overlap frontal-offset test (driver's side). Front crash prevention technology, such as forward collision warning, was not widely available or rated for the 2016 Forte, earning a "Basic" rating if optional equipment was present.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2016 KIA Forte Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2016 KIA Forte's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically ranged from approximately $16,000 for a base LX sedan to over $22,000 for a fully-optioned EX sedan or a Forte Koup/Forte5 SX. In today's used market (as of 2024), prices for a 2016 Forte can vary significantly, generally falling between $7,000 and $13,000, depending on mileage, condition, trim level, and geographic location. Well-maintained EX or SX trims with lower mileage will command higher prices.
In terms of depreciation, the Kia Forte tends to depreciate at an average to slightly above-average rate compared to segment leaders like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. While offering excellent value new, it doesn't hold its resale value quite as strongly. Factors affecting its current used market value include the vehicle's overall condition, verifiable maintenance history, specific trim level (EX and SX retain value better), and any outstanding recalls or known mechanical issues being addressed. Higher mileage or visible wear will naturally lead to lower prices.
In terms of depreciation, the Kia Forte tends to depreciate at an average to slightly above-average rate compared to segment leaders like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. While offering excellent value new, it doesn't hold its resale value quite as strongly. Factors affecting its current used market value include the vehicle's overall condition, verifiable maintenance history, specific trim level (EX and SX retain value better), and any outstanding recalls or known mechanical issues being addressed. Higher mileage or visible wear will naturally lead to lower prices.
2016 KIA Forte Cost of Ownership
The 2016 KIA Forte is generally an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are typically affordable for a compact car, varying by driver. Fuel efficiency is good, especially with the 1.8L and 2.0L engines, and it runs on regular unleaded gasoline, keeping daily fuel expenses low. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is reasonably priced for this class. Repair costs for common wear-and-tear items are also average. However, potential long-term engine issues, though not universal, could lead to significant repair bills if they occur outside of warranty coverage. Overall, its low purchase price and decent running costs make it an economical choice for many.
2016 KIA Forte Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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2016 KIA Forte Safety Rating
NHTSA
2016 KIA Forte Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 KIA Forte is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Passenger Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 KIA Forte Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
The 2016 KIA Forte competes in the fiercely contested compact car segment against rivals such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, and Ford Focus.
Performance: The Forte offers competitive performance, especially with its 2.0L engine feeling more energetic than a typical Toyota Corolla. The Forte Koup/Forte5 SX with the 1.6L turbo engine provides a genuinely sporty driving experience, often outperforming base Civic or Mazda3 models. However, a Honda Civic Si or Mazda3 with the 2.5L engine might offer a more refined or engaging driving dynamic overall.
Features: This is where the Forte truly shines. It consistently provided more standard and optional features for its price than most rivals. For example, the EX trim often included UVO infotainment, a rearview camera, and push-button start, which might have been optional or more expensive on a comparable Civic or Corolla. The Hyundai Elantra, being a corporate cousin, offered a very similar feature set.
Reliability: The Forte generally offers good reliability, but it typically doesn't match the sterling, almost bulletproof, long-term reputations of the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. While many Fortes are problem-free, there have been some reported engine concerns (especially with GDI units) that are less common in its Japanese counterparts. The Mazda3 also enjoys a strong reliability record. The Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze from this era had their own known issues, such as transmission problems in the Focus.
Price: The Forte's greatest strength. Both new and on the used market, it almost invariably offered superior value, providing a richer feature set at a lower price point than similarly equipped Civic or Corolla models.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Forte offers competitive performance, especially with its 2.0L engine feeling more energetic than a typical Toyota Corolla. The Forte Koup/Forte5 SX with the 1.6L turbo engine provides a genuinely sporty driving experience, often outperforming base Civic or Mazda3 models. However, a Honda Civic Si or Mazda3 with the 2.5L engine might offer a more refined or engaging driving dynamic overall.
Features: This is where the Forte truly shines. It consistently provided more standard and optional features for its price than most rivals. For example, the EX trim often included UVO infotainment, a rearview camera, and push-button start, which might have been optional or more expensive on a comparable Civic or Corolla. The Hyundai Elantra, being a corporate cousin, offered a very similar feature set.
Reliability: The Forte generally offers good reliability, but it typically doesn't match the sterling, almost bulletproof, long-term reputations of the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. While many Fortes are problem-free, there have been some reported engine concerns (especially with GDI units) that are less common in its Japanese counterparts. The Mazda3 also enjoys a strong reliability record. The Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze from this era had their own known issues, such as transmission problems in the Focus.
Price: The Forte's greatest strength. Both new and on the used market, it almost invariably offered superior value, providing a richer feature set at a lower price point than similarly equipped Civic or Corolla models.
Alternatives:
- Better (for long-term reliability and resale): The Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic remain top choices. While potentially less feature-laden for the money, their proven track records for durability and strong resale value are undeniable.
- Similar (for value, features, and driving dynamics): The Hyundai Elantra is an excellent alternative, sharing many components and characteristics with the Forte. The Mazda3 offers a more premium feel and superior driving engagement, often at a slightly higher cost.
- Sporty Alternative: If prioritizing performance like the Forte SX, consider the Ford Focus ST (a hot hatch) or the Volkswagen Golf GTI, though these typically move into a higher price bracket.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 KIA Forte a Good Passenger Sedan?
The 2016 KIA Forte is an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, or small families seeking a stylish compact car packed with features. It appeals to those who prioritize value, modern amenities, and decent fuel efficiency for daily commuting over absolute class-leading reliability or ultra-sporty driving dynamics.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle. Its significant depreciation makes it a compelling option, offering a lot of car for the money. The EX trim is highly recommended, as it combines the more capable 2.0L engine with a wealth of desirable features like the UVO infotainment and rearview camera, providing the best balance of value and content. If performance is a priority, the Forte Koup/Forte5 SX is a hidden gem. Always ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verify the maintenance history to mitigate potential long-term engine concerns. With diligent care, it can provide many years of economical and stylish transportation.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle. Its significant depreciation makes it a compelling option, offering a lot of car for the money. The EX trim is highly recommended, as it combines the more capable 2.0L engine with a wealth of desirable features like the UVO infotainment and rearview camera, providing the best balance of value and content. If performance is a priority, the Forte Koup/Forte5 SX is a hidden gem. Always ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verify the maintenance history to mitigate potential long-term engine concerns. With diligent care, it can provide many years of economical and stylish transportation.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.