Small changes are in store for the Kia Forte this year, and that makes sense. After a 2010 introduction and a sophomore year that debuted a new hatchback design and two new transmissions, it’d be natural to take a bit of a break. The aforementioned hatchback is available only with an automatic transmission this year, and EX trims gain a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. If you opt for the technology package in the EX, you’ll get an Added Supervision meter cluster in addition to a list of gizmos like traffic nav, rear-view camera, keyless access and start, and chrome door handles. Chrome is so hi-tech. Of course you’ll also get automatic climate control, fog lights and automatic headlights, so it’s not a bad option package, especially for less than 2 grand. Otherwise things remain the same for this quirky compact, with sedan configurations coming in LX, EX and SX trims and the hatch coming in EX and SX flavors. A 2.0-liter, 156-hp engine powers the LX and EX trims, and it’s a gutless disappointment. You’ll have to wind the mirthless mill up to 6,200 rpm just to utilize all the power of those 156 horses, and it’ll sound quite ragged as you do so. But the Forte has never been known for speed and power, and the 2.0 will get you around town with little drama at least. With the 6-speed automatic it’ll even return 26 mpg city/36 highway, and if you choose the Fuel Economy Package, you’ll add electric steering, low-rolling-resistance tires and new aerodynamic tweaks for a 1-mpg bump in the city and on the highway. The manual fares worse: 25/34. SX trims get a bit of a power boost from a 2.4-liter, 173-hp engine. 17 horses aren’t a lot, but an extra 24 lb-ft of torque help and make things a lot less strained when speed is needed. The 6-speed automatic also comes with paddle shifters here, and while the Forte will never be mistaken for an enthusiast’s ride, the fun is increased a bit with their inclusion. Efficiency drops down to 23/32, however – a big sacrifice for not a lot of power gained. The real benefit of the SX trim is its suspension. While LX and EX trims suffer from a setup that is neither overly comfortable nor impressively sporty, the SX manages a better blend. Bump absorption is adequate, with only large inconsistencies producing some nasty clunking, and the firm roadholding of this svelte spinner might just inspire some corner carving if you can maintain speed. The biggest drawback for the Forte is all the noise. With a compact, you’re expecting a cheap suspension and a strained little engine, but noise doesn’t have to come along with all that. Some added insulation would go a long way in deadening all the wind, tire and engine noise that constantly permeates the cabin. The perceived shortcomings of both would be partially mitigated, and perception is everything. As is there’s a cacophony of sounds that continually intrude, and they serve only to make things uncomfortable. But for the price, it’s hard to argue. The Forte's negatives can be avoided mostly by going for a Civic or a MAZDA3, but you’ll pay to do so. On top of that, Kia hasn’t been noted for leaving well enough alone – as evidenced by the Forte’s first two years. Smart money says the Forte will just keep getting better. For now, it’s still a great deal in a compact.