The 2014 Kia Forte has been named the Best New Compact Sedan of the year by Cars.com.

Selected from the top six finalists chosen by Cars.com editors, the Forte won out for its performance and value, said a press release.

The compact stood out from its competition for both comfort and style, according to Cars.com.

"People buy compact cars because they are affordable and efficient, but that doesn't mean they have to be boring," Patrick Olsen, Cars.com editor-in-chief, said in the press release. "The Forte breaks the mold with its head-turning styling outside and an interior full of affordable creature comforts."

The Kia Forte Sedan, which debuted in March, was hailed as the least expensive midsize-model in America with a $15,999 listing price.

The larger Forte offers a "sportier and more upscale" design with more interior space and better overall performance than past models.

Some of the standard features for base models are SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, power-folding mirrors and power windows. The Popular Package comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and a sliding front armrest, according to Kia.

The Forte is available in LX and EX variants, powered by either the powerful 2.0-liter 173-horsepower GDI option or the fuel-efficient 1.8-liter 148-horsepower engine. Fuel economy for the 2.0 option was 24 miles per gallon of in city driving, 36 mpg on the highway, and 28 combined, according to The Associated Press.

"The all-new Forte continues to earn praise for its sleek design, exceptional performance and plethora of features," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications at Kia Motors America. "Cars.com speaks for, not only the industry, but also car buyers, and we are happy to have the Forte recognized for elevating the compact segment to new levels of sophistication with its premium features, comfortable cabin and refined ride."

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