Kia Forte vs Ford Focus 01/26/2011
Small cars have seen a significant boost in popularity lately, but drivers don't necessarily need to be rocking a hatchback to fit in with the trend. Coupes have been around much longer, and there are a number of options for drivers who don't need all the room of a sedan.
The Kia Forte and Ford Focus are two examples of stylish coupes that will fit most drivers' budgets. The Focus is slightly more expensive, starting at $17,170, while the Forte comes in at $16,995. The Forte increases its value further by offering drivers a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty, which outclasses Ford's 5 year/60,000 mile coverage.
Going underneath the hood doesn't do the Focus any favors either. Both cars feature inline-four engines mated to a manual speed transmission, although the Forte's is a six-speed while the Focus uses a five. The Forte ekes out victories in both horsepower and torque, with its engine producing 156 hp and 144 lb-ft. Ford can only manage 140 hp and 136 lb-ft.
On the inside, the Forte matches every feature that the Focus offers while also supporting Bluetooth connectivity. In the end, the Ford Focus might have the name recognition, but it really offers no advantages over the superior Kia Forte.