Kia’s sportiest compact gains a tilt and telescoping steering wheel in EX trim this year, but not much else. Sure, the Technology Package gains an “Added Supervision” meter cluster, but that’ not exactly a major draw. Sadly, there’s no extra sport to add to the Koup this year, but we are still just one year into its life cycle.

This FWD, 2-door coupe offers base EX and sport-themed SX trims. While the EX doesn’t have much to offer in terms of features, at least it lives up to its “base” label. The 2.0-liter engine offers a paltry 156 hp and will struggle at nearly any speed as the Forte Koup attempts to pass, merge or even climb hills. The EX isn’t a complete stripper though, as it comes with a truncated power package consisting of just windows, doors and mirrors, and the mirrors at least have integrated signals. The stereo won’t impress either, but it does come satellite-ready with USB, Bluetooth and a digital media player connection. The SX on the other hand doesn’t manage to inject much sport into the Forte Koup. You’ll get the more powerful 2.4-liter engine good for 173 hp, as well as automatic headlights, fog lights and the tilt and telescoping steering wheel that was made standard for all trims this year. In the SX it’s leather-wrapped, but it’s some of the cheapest-looking leather I’ve seen in an automobile.

If you add the Technology Package to the EX trim, you’ll get the previously mentioned “Added Supervision” meter cluster for the dash, as well as navigation with traffic, a rear-view camera, keyless access and start, automatic climate control, fog lights and automatic headlights. Chrome door handles too. Bask in the technology.

The suspension is well-sorted at least in base form. It won’t provide the subtle blend of comfort and performance you’ll find more easily outside of the compact class, but it’s good enough to be fun without fully compacting your spine. With a bit more power, the Forte Koup could even be a bit of a thrilling ride, but unfortunately the only way to get more power is to go with the 2.4 in the SX, and that gets you a stiffer “sport” suspension that does seem to ruin things a bit. With the 17-inch alloys under you, every rut and ripple will be felt, and that’s not fun for anyone.

At least Kia didn’t skimp on safety, and the Forte Koup is loaded standard with traction and stability control, assisted 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, front-seat active head restraints and 6 standard airbags – dual front, front-side and curtain-side. A Premium Package will add a power sunroof and 16-inch alloys to the EX trim, while a Leather Package will build on that in the SX trim and give you heated front seats, leather and an automatic rearview.

Still, none of this makes the Forte Koup the most attractive option in the compact class. It’s not a bad choice – especially for the price – but if you’re looking for anything other than economical transportation, it’s probably best to look elsewhere.