27 MPG combined is respectable for the 2017 Kia Forte Koup 1.6L turbo, especially since it’s a sporty, two-door coupe for drivers who want style and a more engaging driving experience, rather than ultimate practicality and maximum fuel efficiency. This isn’t a Prius competitor, and nobody shopping for one is cross-shopping it with the Kia Forte Koup. This is transportation with a bit of flair, and 27 MPG allows for that flair without breaking the bank.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Kia Forte Koup 1.6T at 25 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure is probably more realistic for most owners. The turbocharged engine likes to be in boost, and spirited driving around town will invariably dip below 25 MPG. However, the 32 MPG highway figure is achievable, and even surpassable, if you drive with a light foot and use the cruise control on long trips. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is relatively efficient and helps keep the engine in its sweet spot for fuel economy. To get the best highway MPG, resist the urge to constantly accelerate and decelerate to pass other vehicles; maintaining a steady speed will yield the best results.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Kia Forte Koup 1.6L turbo is $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Owners who drive primarily in the city and tend to have a heavier foot will naturally see higher fuel costs. However, if you drive mostly on the highway and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques, you may be able to beat the EPA’s estimate. See all Kia fuel economy data for a broader picture.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Forte Koup 1.6T owners report a range of MPG figures depending on their driving style and conditions. Some drivers report averaging close to 30 MPG in mixed driving, while others see numbers closer to the low 20s. Ultimately, your actual MPG will depend on how and where you drive. It’s also important to remember that the turbocharged engine is more sensitive to driving style than a naturally aspirated engine. Quick acceleration and aggressive driving will have a more significant impact on fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2017 Kia Forte Koup 1.6L turbo competes with a number of other sporty compact cars. The Honda Civic Coupe with the 1.5L turbo engine achieves an EPA-estimated 31 MPG combined, making it a slightly more efficient option. The Scion tC, another popular coupe choice back in 2017, achieved around 26 MPG combined. The Hyundai Elantra GT, which shares some mechanical components with the Forte Koup, also achieves similar fuel economy of around 27 MPG combined in its non-N Line form. The FORTE MPG across all years shows the consistency in efficiency for this model. For buyers considering the Forte Koup, this falls right in line with their expectations for a sporty car that can still deliver reasonable mileage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The turbo engine responds readily to throttle input, but every time you accelerate hard, you’re burning extra fuel. Instead, try to accelerate smoothly and gradually, anticipating traffic conditions to avoid sudden stops. Keeping the turbocharger from constantly spooling up will make a noticeable difference in your average fuel economy.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is a simple step that can improve your MPG.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which is more fuel-efficient than constantly accelerating and decelerating. Engage the cruise control on long highway stretches to save fuel. Remember to disengage it when approaching traffic or in inclement weather.

Minimize idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and easily, so you won’t experience any significant wear and tear.

Reduce weight. The more weight you carry in your car, the more fuel it takes to move it. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and rear seats. Getting rid of extra weight can improve your fuel economy.