The Kia Forte II (YD), produced from 2013 to 2016, represented a significant step forward for the Korean automaker in the competitive compact sedan segment. The 2.0 GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) variant, equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Forte II lineup, offering a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and features. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a more refined and powerful option than the base 1.8L engine, without the added cost of the top-tier trims. It was primarily marketed towards North American consumers, where the demand for larger displacement engines and automatic transmissions remained strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Forte |
| Generation | Forte II (YD) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GDI (173 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | ULEV-II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 209 Nm @ 4700 rpm (154.15 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 | 1296-1374 kg (2857.19 – 3029.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 396-474 kg (873.03 – 1044.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 421 l (14.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4560 mm (179.53 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 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 | 980 mm (38.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.2° |
| Departure angle | 20.4° |
| 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
The heart of the 2.0 GDI Forte is the Nu engine family, specifically the G4NC code. This 1999cc inline-four engine utilizes direct fuel injection (GDI) technology, which injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Kia’s Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for improved performance across the rev range. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common choice in the US market, was designed to provide smooth shifts and efficient power delivery. While not a particularly advanced transmission, it was known for its reliability and adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine produces 173 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 209 Nm (154 lb-ft) of torque at 4700 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 GDI automatic Forte offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and responsiveness compared to the base 1.8L model. While not a sports sedan, it provided sufficient power for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, and the overall driving experience was geared towards comfort rather than outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the available manual transmission. Compared to the more powerful turbocharged engines offered in some markets, the 2.0 GDI felt less potent, but it offered a more linear power delivery and lower running costs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 GDI automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior design was functional and modern, though material quality was generally considered average for the segment. Optional extras included navigation, keyless entry, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Forte II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, but didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as more sophisticated independent rear suspension systems. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 GDI automatic Forte was generally well-received by critics as a competent and value-oriented compact sedan. It offered a good balance of features, fuel economy, and performance for the price. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials and overall refinement weren’t quite on par with some of its competitors, such as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. Fuel economy was rated at 28 mpg combined, which was competitive for its class. Reliability was generally good, though some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The 2.0 GDI engine and six-speed automatic transmission combination proved to be relatively reliable in the long term. While not without its quirks, the powertrain generally held up well with proper maintenance. On the used car market, the 2013-2016 Kia Forte II 2.0 GDI automatic remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable and fuel-efficient compact sedan. Its affordability and relatively low maintenance costs contribute to its continued appeal.
