2018 Kia Forte

The 2018 Forte sedan carries over into the new model year largely unchanged from, save for some package enhancements.

Cruise control is now standard on the LX (automatic transmission only) and the LX Popular Package, which now includes UVO3, allowing Forte customers to use Android Auto, Apple CarPlay on their compatible devices and enjoy smartphone projected navigation.

The LX Popular Plus Package includes the above equipment and adds a new alloy wheel design, LED taillights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The S adds a new 16-inch alloy wheel and the Technology Package now includes a sunroof, while last year's Premium Package has been discontinued. The EX sedan now comes standard with Advanced Driver Assistance Features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist.

Available in three trims, a 2018 Kia Forte sporty S trim sits in between the entry-level LX trim and the top-trim EX model. The S trim amps up the Forte's dynamic demeanor by adding a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, rear spoiler, and a chrome exhaust tip.

The 2018 Kia Forte EX trim remains the top of the range, and with that, comes standard with premium exterior features such as LED taillights, Smart Key with perimeter approach lighting and front door pocket lighting, and new 17-inch alloy wheels. Like its bigger Optima sibling, the Forte is available with Dynamic Bending Light technology, which uses steering wheel inputs to angle the light around corners and bends.

The Forte comes standard with a 2.0-liter Atkinson I-4, which is paired with a six-speed manual transmission or an available second-generation six-speed automatic transmission that has been engineered to help improve fuel economy. The EX trim is equipped with the tried-and-true 2.0-liter GDI I-4 and six-speed automatic.