you actually have two options for the 1.6 -> either use the paddle shifters to downshift manually which is estremely easy and fun to do or if you actually press harder on the accelerator it will drop a gear (unless you're already at a pretty decent speed say 120km/h. I usually use the paddle shifters if i want to have a really good pickup (i'm on 1.6 sx btw). The car doesnt seem to know when to drop a gear that well sometimes but i dont really find that to be an issue since there's shiftronic mode with paddle shifters to play with.

Depends on how deep your wallet is.

Can't really comment on the 1.6L as it's not available in Australia, but the 2.0L is more than adequate for daily driving. The old 4 speed autobox does limit the accelerating potential due to its long ratios, but once you familiarise yourself with the revs you'll learn how to keep the engine within its powerband.

The 2.0L ThetaII, together with the Lancer's engine, is the most powerful engine on paper among the C-segment, but it doesn't really translate to real life performance. The 3's and Civic's engine produce lower numbers yet they are equally as quick off the line, no thanks to our Forte's gear box and late-peaking torque curve. The new 6 speed box should improve on this with shorter ratios, and numberswise it does seem to improve the century sprint by 1 second. Nevertheless, whether it really makes a significant, noticeable improvement in real-life situations remains a subjective opinion.

Peak torque comes in at 4200rpm and to maintain the acceleration you'll often need to keep the revs above 3000, which results in higher noise levels and of course, FC.

Don't be bothered about the FC reading shown on the computer - it depends on when it calculates it. If you reset it and recalculate while you're cruising on highways, you'll easily get 6-7L/100km. On average the 2.0L drinks 9-10L/100km for a mixed range, around 6-7 for frequent long-distance highway drives; but if you're constantly stuck in jams don't be surprised if it reaches 12.

At the end of the day, it goes back to how much does your wallet carry. If you can afford the higher selling price, costlier road tax, greater FC, go for the 2.0L. Otherwise the 1.6L should suffice - most of the 1.6L owners here are satisfied with the performance, although it's still worth mentioning that the Forte is not a sports car so don't expect kidney punching-accelerations.

booked Forte 2.0 White.
freebies as below:
- SmartTag + T&G RM10
- Aircool/Agard tinted SN50 with 4mm security film.
- Kia logo
- Door Visor
- RM20-50 Fuel
- RM210 registered number.

hi guys, White 1.6SX FL-Forte OEM bodykit, report in.
from Penang, PKD