2013 Kia Forte Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010

Crash Test Rating

Source NHTSA

MPG (up to)

23 -27 City / 32 -37 HWY

Source FuelEconomy.gov

Horsepower

156 -173

Seats

Positive Owner Reviews

Madison R

Can go into manual using the stick or the paddles on the steering wheel.

I've never really had any problems with this vehicle, just some routine maintenance when I hit 100,000 miles. I have the hatchback version, which I love. The brakes are not too touchy and the vehicle accelerates really well. It also has the option to go into manual with the stick or paddles on the steering wheel, which I would use if I knew how to drive a manual.

James M

It is fuel efficient. I can drive almost two weeks back and forth to work without having to refuel.

I love it. It's fast, fuel efficient, and dependable. It definitely helps that it looks sporty, too.

Andrew B

It's really reliable and gets great gas mileage.

It gets great gas mileage and has been really reliable. It rides really smooth and even though it gets great gas mileage it still has a little get up and go. It has plenty of room for 4 people to sit comfortably, but it would be uncomfortable for 4 people to go on a long trip together.

Josephine F

Twenty thirteen Kia forte eco model.

My car is a 2013 Kia forte. It is very reliable and also very good on gas. My gas takes holds about thirteen gallons of gas and has wonderful mileage. My car is red with a tan interior. My car also has Bluetooth which comes in handy while driving. My car is an eco model.

Luanna M

Has advantages for most everything.

I love my car. It's very dependable I have not had a lot of issues with it. I have been owning a Kia of some sort for the last 10 years or longer. Kia is basically my go to car. My car gets really good gas mileage I am grateful for that. And there performance. My car as long as you keep serviced. Does great all year long.

Edward K

Very trusted automobile to own.

It is not a flashy sports model but it is a very reliable vehicle and economical. It has the basic items of air, electric windows, Bluetooth, etc. I sure options have been updated in the 6 years. The one fault is that the cloth seats stain easily. It would be advisable to cover the cloth material.

Megan D

It has really good gas mileage and it's the perfect sized car.

I like the bug guard that I had the option to have installed on the car when I got it. It makes the hood look a lot cleaner, since the car is white, and any bugs or dirt just stick to the black guard. My only complaint is that there was a recall on my brakes, so that was kind of scary having to go check on that.

Mary S

Really like my phone connecting thru the speakers in car plus the map Audio too.

Easy to drive. Just do not like the red color. Runs real smooth. Does pretty good in the snow. Used to drive a van, this car is so much lower to the ground.

Negative Owner Reviews

Kristy Andersen

Horrible for engine failure!!

Engine needs to be replaced at 148 000kms. Bought the car with about 28 000kms on it. I’ve maintained the car and gotten the oil changed regularly and always on time. MANY RECALLS and won lawsuits about Kia engines on all kinds of models. No recall for us 2013 Forte owners... Disgusting that so many people who bought a $20 000+ car has an engine that doesn’t even make 150 000kms and do nothing to compensate. NEVER BUY A KIA is my advise or you’ll be stuck with a car payment and no car.

Melanie Dickie

Blown Engine!

I was driving home when I heard a loud knock from the engine, the cars rpms went to zero and the car died, I was able to get the car off the road, I had the car towed to the dealership where I bought it from and they confirmed the engine was blown. I still owe 10k on the car, KIA has recalled this same motor in other vehicles but not in mine. My car is a 2013 Kia Forte SX with the 2.4L engine, mileage is 131k

Tatayana M

The cool/heat features and the sunroof.

Not so reliable it is been making a funny noise lately. I actually broke down on the side of the road going on a road trip last weekend. I got the car because it had some good features for an older car. It is an comfortable car, it could have some more room, but is an ok car if you really need a vehicle.

Janice

Car that dies without a warning

I bought a second hand 2013 Kia Forte in 2015 thought it was a good little car but after only 2 years it is parked in my driveway motor is gone nothing Kia will do for you as they know this problem exist but no recall well I still have a car payment and also an insurance I have to pay for a car that cost to much to fix as I have emptied 2 cards on this girl enough is enough so thanks Kia for not a good ride but no ride at all,just because it is a small compact car it still should be a lot off recalls on this as it is a lemon must of been built on a Monday.so I hope before long you recall the 2 lt motors on this car thanks for nothing only a lot off bills and payments.Everyone should watch out because it just stalls and you figure oh I need a boost well u get a boost and you are happy but then you make it another 30 feet and she shuts down again and quess what she never starts again between senors, lights blowing, breaks wearing out that you go through so many sets of pads you feel like you don't leave garage,timing chains,all recalls were done that was sent to me.but nothing about motors stalling and not starting again. So buyers beware

Motor after 5 years is gone.

I had my car for 5 years now the motor is gone and Kia doesn't want to fix it and I'm still paying for it. Never again a Kia hope everyone check there contract when they are purchasing a Kia I know I will !!!!!

Robert D

If you are searching for a small car this is good. But not a lot of room if your needs are greater

It is very small, the trunk latch to lower the seats is in the trunk.

Anna C

Worst investment ever will never buy from Concordville Nissan

So far there have been 5 safety recalls. My odometer has a mind of its own. I have had the car 7 months check engine light came on with evaporation leak (500+) to repair. Bought car with 40,000 miles it's now 60,000+ worst investment ever

Briana L

Gray Kia forte, great starting car for teens.

No major performance issues, personally have problems with the seats in the car, very uncomfortable, for rides longer than one hour you start to feel stiff and like your sitting on the ground. The car is very loud on the road, forcing the music to be turned up higher.

Kia Forte Models

Models also known as Trim Levels, are used to identify a vehicle's level of equipment or special features.

156 HP 29-30 MPG 5 Seats

173 HP 26 MPG 5 Seats

Photos may not match model

2013 Kia Forte Owner Reviews

4.28

268 Reviews

Write Review

5 stars

49%

4 stars

35%

3 stars

13%

2 stars

1 star

Lauren S on June 20, 2021

I love my Kia forte. Will be hard to ever replace it.

Long lasting. I have driven this car 80000+ miles and have never had any serious issues. All I have had to do is change out headlight and taillight bulbs, change the oil, change the breaks, and it runs great! I have gotten new wheels too. Just general maintenance. I swear this car could last me forever.

Lw E on April 26, 2021

The liking of Kia forte it's the best car thatbinjabr.

My car is a great car,it's a compact hybrid car which its great on gad, its a sturdy car and almost to never break down it's a black car that I got some years ago and have not need to replace it as of yes the car is this best car in have had so far and I willing to recommend it to others during this time because it's such a good car to drive around town or to go on long strip.

View All Reviews (268)

Pros from Owners

Ricci F.

The Bluetooth capabilities are good. Smooth ride. Not very many problems over several years. Regular maintenance is all that is needed usually. The cloth seats have held up well, does not stain or tear easily.

Megan D.

The features and the way the interior is set up really has the driver in mind (comfortable seats, easy controls, etc.) I have also not had major problems with the vehicle requiring extensive maintenance, just replacing coolant, battery, wipers, tires, etc.

John A.

Reliable and built well and solid. It rides good and is comfortable. It is easy on tires and gets good gas mileage. Body style is something I like. I even like the color. Built solid. Has a good ride. Comfortable.

Kenan H.

Good on gas. Nice look and interior. Cheap upkeep and wonderful mileage. And a great price. Good sound system. Nice paint job. Surprisingly spacious. Convertible seating. Good mileage again. Great tires.

Heather V.

The car is reliable. I have never had any major issues with it as far as maintenance is concerned. It is very affordable. And the car also looks nice, good shape and nice interior. I really like Kia cars because of their affordability.

Cons from Owners

Ricci F.

Doesn't read or respond to text messages. The cloth seats got one small tear in the seam. The speakers on one side do not sound as well as they used to. The trunk could be a little bigger. The gas tank could be bigger than it is.

Megan D.

I have had to replace the tail lights and headlights a few times; one bulb will go so I just go ahead and replace both. I do not know of anyone else who has to replace their bulbs that often. The bug guard I paid extra to have installed also does not add a whole lot; I still get bugs under and above where the guard covers.

John A.

When backing up, it is hard to see into the blind spots. It is more of a leap of faith sometimes. A bit too much road noise but it is tolerable. I am a bit older so it can be difficult getting in and out due to it sitting low to the ground. Not a real problem.

Kenan H.

It is kind of slow. It has bad ignition. Does not start at the first time all the time. Has an emotion issue. Not great on goo. Does a subpar job on speed and gear transfer. Other than that it is a fine automobile.

Heather V.

It is very small. Not enough room to comfortable fit an infant car seat and more than one passenger. I have to keep the car seat behind the driver's seat otherwise I wouldn't be able to have a passenger sit up front with me.

Ranks #22 Small Cars by Owners

The 2013 Kia Forte has an average owner rating of 4.33 out of 5 which ranks it #22 of 39 other Small Cars.

2013 Volkswagen GLI

4.74

2013 MINI Clubman

4.68

2013 Kia Forte

4.27

Ranks #11 Small Cars by Fuel Economy

The 2013 Kia Forte has a combined MPG of 39 which ranks it #11 of 38 other Small Cars.

2013 FIAT 500e

122 MPG

2013 Volkswagen Jetta

48 MPG

Tie

2013 Kia Forte

36 MPG

Is The 2013 Kia Forte A Good Car?

Yes. Very reliable. Only completed routine maintenance on vehicle. I am currently at 120k miles. The only issue was wheel bearings that went out at 50k miles but was covered under warranty.

Rachel F.

Yes. Reliable and gets good mileage. Easy to drive and has all the smart sensors you want to add when you buy one.

Chris B.

Yes, I have never had any issues with it. As long as I get the oil changed and the tires rotated regularly, everything is fine.

Rhema W.

Small, cheap, and semi reliable as long as you take care of them properly. They're good on gas and have more room in them than they look.

Brianne D.

It is a very good vehicle. I purchased it used five years ago at about 19,000 miles. I have had no major issues with it, just the regular maintenance and recently replaced the shocks. It is been very... Read More

Cassandra C.

Yes, the Kia forte is a great vehicle and it is also great on gas with the eco mode. It's a compact but very sizeable car!

Jan M.

Yes. It is a great vehicle. It is a great gas saver and has many features. It is perfect for a college students.

Elizabeth N.

How Reliable Is The 2013 Kia Forte?

No problems other than the wheel bearings mentioned previously. Everything runs smoothly and it is very reliable. Great daily driver.

Rachel F.

It is reliable and I do enjoy driving it. I have taken care of it and to date have not experienced any major challenges.

Chris B.

The only problem I have had, was the battery dying. And that was when I'd had it for about 5 years. It is reliable.

Rhema W.

I have only replaces an air compressor after ownership for 1 1/2 years. Everything else seems to be holding up.

Brianne D.

It is reliable. I live in Iowa so the winters are harsh. It has never left me hanging. I replaced the battery about two years ago just because it was time to. I replaced my shocks a few months ago due... Read More

Cassandra C.

Yes, the 2013 Kia forte is an extremely reliable car if taken great care of. I had no problems with my Kia and I even was running on dry oil for a couple months

Erin B.

It is extremely reliable. It does not always have to get work done and other things. It keeps up for a while if it is taken care of properly.

Riley O.

Is The 2013 Kia Forte A Good Value?

Originally 24k. Got it for 18k with 4k miles on it. I think it is a great value. I would consider buying another Kia.

Rachel F.

The value is ok. I think car prices overall are very inflated but relative to the market I would say it is a good price.

Chris B.

It was $15,000 at the time. It is probably more now. I would definitely say the car has a good value.

Rhema W.

I bought it a 9400. It is probably worth 8500 now and trade in is at 3500. The car is more on the cheaper side.

Brianne D.

I purchased it in 2014 and it was slightly used with 19,000 miles on it. I paid about $13,000 at the time. I was happy with that price. It is a good value. I have Bluetooth compatibility and Sirius XM... Read More

Cassandra C.

The 2013 Kia is priced at over $15,000 brand new and around $10,000 for used. Depending on the mileage it might be a little overpriced

Alyssa W.

It costed 1800 at the time. It was well worth it and even after payments were complete it was not a regretted purchase. It is so worth it.

Jack P.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i reset the 2013 Kia Forte radio?

Answer: Numerous Kia models make things very convenient, and come with a radio power button that can be used to reset the radio itself. This is placed on the dashboard of the car, and simply needs to be pushed and held...

Does the 2013 Kia Forte have a timing belt or chain?

Answer: The 2013 Kia Forte does have a timing chain. You will come across many issues with an engine. A spark plug may come off, causing engine issues. A gasket may become loose and that needs to be tightened up. You...

2013 Kia Forte: What is the size of the trunk and cargo space?

Answer: The size of the trunk and cargo space on the 2013 Kia Forte is 14.7 to 19.4 ft, 14.7 to 53.1 ft with seat area. The larger number is the size of the space with the seats folded down, while the smaller number is...

2013 Kia Forte: What is the oil type and capacity?

Answer: The 2013 Kia Forte has an oil capacity of 4.1 quarts with a filter and a type of 5W-20 or 5W-30 in all temperatures for the 2.0 L 4Cylinder engine. For the 2.4 L 4Cylinder engine it has a capacity of 4.5 quarts...

See all Frequently Asked Questions

Answers are provided by third parties. We do not guarantee accuracy of responses

Safety & Reliability

NHTSA Crash Test

Overall

Front

Rollover

Side

*National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

IIHS Crash Test

Moderate Overlap Front

Side

Roof Strength

Driver-side Overlap Front

Not Rated

*Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

2013 Kia Forte Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Positive Owner Reviews

Negative Owner Reviews

Kia Forte Models

2013 Kia Forte Owner Reviews

Pros from Owners

Cons from Owners

Ranks #22 Small Cars by Owners

Ranks #11 Small Cars by Fuel Economy

Is The 2013 Kia Forte A Good Car?

How Reliable Is The 2013 Kia Forte?

Is The 2013 Kia Forte A Good Value?

Related Articles for 2013 Kia Forte

Frequently Asked Questions

Safety & Reliability