The Kia Forte II Koup 2.0 GDI Automatic, produced from 2013 to 2016, represented a key offering in Kia’s expanding lineup during a period of significant brand transformation. Positioned as a sporty, two-door variant of the second-generation Forte (known as the Forte II), the Koup aimed to attract a younger demographic seeking a more stylish and engaging driving experience than the traditional sedan. This particular configuration, featuring the 2.0-liter GDI engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Koup lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was designed to compete with similar compact coupes from Honda, Hyundai, and Nissan in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Forte |
| Generation | Forte II Koup |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GDI (166 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | SULEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 166 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83 Hp/l |
| Torque | 201 Nm @ 4700 rpm (148.25 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Nu / G4NC |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm3 (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 378 l (13.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4530 mm (178.35 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1553-1557 mm (61.14 – 61.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1566-1570 mm (61.65 – 61.81 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 950 mm (37.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.5° |
| Departure angle | 20.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 262 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 215/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2013-2016 Kia Forte II Koup 2.0 GDI Automatic lies the Hyundai-Kia Nu engine family. Specifically, the G4NC 2.0-liter inline-four engine delivers 166 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 201 Nm (148.25 lb-ft) of torque at 4,700 rpm. The “GDI” designation signifies Gasoline Direct Injection, a technology that injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Kia’s Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for enhanced performance across the rev range. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common unit within the Hyundai-Kia group, provides smooth and relatively quick shifts. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it was programmed for reasonable responsiveness and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 GDI engine and six-speed automatic pairing in the Koup offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 1.8-liter engine option. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with the Koup feeling reasonably sprightly in city and highway conditions. However, it wasn’t a particularly sporty performer. The automatic transmission, while smooth, sometimes hesitated during quick acceleration, and lacked the engagement of a manual gearbox. The gear ratios were tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Koup, the automatic version felt slightly less responsive. The Koup’s suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, but at the expense of sharp handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 GDI Automatic Koup typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and keyless entry. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, though not luxurious. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a navigation system, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Forte II Koup utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The Koup’s chassis was designed to balance ride comfort and handling, leaning more towards the former. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the Koup wasn’t intended to be a track-focused vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Forte II Koup 2.0 GDI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, generous standard features, and competitive price. However, some reviewers noted the lack of a truly sporty driving experience and the somewhat hesitant automatic transmission. Compared to other coupes in its class, such as the Honda Civic Coupe and Nissan Sentra Coupe, the Koup offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting its rivals in price while offering similar or better features. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 28 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Kia Forte II Koup 2.0 GDI Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The Nu engine family is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission has a good track record. Common issues reported by owners include minor electrical glitches and occasional problems with the air conditioning system. Overall, the Koup remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and practical coupe. Its combination of affordability, features, and reliability has cemented its place as a significant model in Kia’s history, demonstrating the brand’s growing competitiveness in the compact car segment.
