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 a crucial model for Kia as they sought to shed their reputation for basic transportation and establish themselves as a maker of desirable, well-equipped vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Forte |
| Generation | Forte II Koup |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GDI (173 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 | ULEV-II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 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.) |
| 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 Forte II Koup 2.0 GDI Automatic is the Nu engine family, specifically the G4NC code. This 1.999-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes direct gasoline injection (GDI) technology, a key feature for improving both power and fuel economy. Direct injection allows fuel to be sprayed directly into the combustion chamber, resulting in a more complete burn and increased efficiency. The engine also features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Kia’s Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) system. D-CVVT optimizes valve timing based on engine load and speed, further enhancing performance and reducing emissions. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not known for being particularly sporty, was chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use, catering to a broader audience. It featured a conventional torque converter design and offered a ‘Sport’ mode for more aggressive shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 173 horsepower and 209 Nm (154 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.0 GDI engine, when paired with the six-speed automatic, provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the 8-9 second range. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the available manual transmission, the automatic resulted in a slight performance decrease and a less engaging driving experience. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright speed. The Koup’s suspension, while comfortable for everyday driving, didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as some of its competitors.
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 six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels added features like a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. Exterior features included alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and fog lights. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard across all trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Forte II Koup utilized a front-wheel-drive layout 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. The steering was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering reasonable feedback. The Koup’s chassis was designed to balance comfort and handling, leaning more towards the former. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Forte II Koup 2.0 GDI Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and affordable coupe. It was praised for its modern design, comfortable interior, and generous standard features. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond and that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its rivals, such as the Honda Civic Coupe or the Hyundai Elantra Coupe. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 28 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the base 1.8L engine option, the 2.0 GDI offered a significant performance upgrade, making it the preferred choice for drivers seeking more power.
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 generally known for its durability, although regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial. The six-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be fairly robust. Today, these Koups represent an affordable entry point into the coupe market, offering a good balance of style, features, and reliability. While not a performance icon, the 2.0 GDI Automatic Koup played a significant role in Kia’s efforts to establish itself as a mainstream automotive brand.
