Kia has announced pricing for the new Forte small sedan. Available in three trim lines, the Forte will start at $13,695 for the LX trim, $15,795 for the EX, and $17,195 for the top-of-the-line SX.

Sized similarly to a Honda Civic, the base model LX does away with typical standard features such as power windows and door locks, cup holders, and air conditioning. They become standard on the EX and SX along with remote keyless entry, and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. The SX adds a leather-wrapped telescoping steering wheel.

The LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and returning an EPA-rated 25 city/34 highway mpg with either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. There is also a $600 fuel economy package available on the EX model that includes the five-speed automatic transmission, electric power steering, low rolling resistance tires, and aerodynamic enhancements for a return of 27 city/36 highway mpg, calculated at 30 mpg combined.

The SX model has a 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter engine with fuel economy of 22 city/32 highway mpg with the six-speed manual or 23 city/31 highway mpg with the five-speed automatic.

Standard safety features include front active headrests, front seat-mounted side air bags, curtain air bags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.

The Forte hits dealerships in early summer, with the two-door Koup following later in the season.

—Liza Barth