Kia's compact Forte has been picked as the "top car for college graduates" by a U.S.-based automotive ranking Web site, South Korea's No. 2 carmaker said Saturday.

The carmaker said the Forte, which comes in sedan and hatchback models, received the highest mark among cars checked by Total Car Score for its top 10 list based on its affordability, exterior styling and spacious interior.

The Web site, which has one of the most comprehensive industry-wide vehicle assessment rating schemes to help car shoppers, also praised the Forte for its standard feature options.

Besides looking over reviews from various automotive authorities, Total Car Score examines a car's rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration before making its scores public.

The designation comes as the U.S. enters its graduation season, which could help boost sales of the compact, Kia said.

Kia along with Hyundai Motor Co. is one of the flagship companies of Hyundai Motor Group, the world's fifth largest automotive group. (Yonhap)